21 Shares has listed its first two physically backed exchange-traded notes (ETNs) on Nasdaq Stockholm, according to the Swedish trading platform. As 2022 approaches, the number of crypto-based exchange-traded products in Europe continues to rise. The two instruments described represent a new sector for ETNs. These unsecured debt securities track an underlying index of equities and trade on a major exchange and have Bitcoin (BTC) and Ether (ETH) as underlying assets. The new ETNs, according to the statement, will give investors access to cryptocurrency investment opportunities such as Bitcoin and Ether. Nasdaq Stockholm with 21 Shares as the First Issuer
According to Helena Wedin, Nasdaq's European head of exchange-traded products, exchange-traded notes allow investors to invest in non-traditional assets while keeping the transparency of a regulated market. "We are pleased to debut this new sector at Nasdaq Stockholm with 21 Shares as of the first issuer," she continues.
According to the news release, most traditional banks and brokers allow investors to trade all ETNs listed on Nasdaq Stockholm. This is a first, opening up new options for those who want to engage in cryptocurrencies but are hesitant to do so on unregulated exchanges.
Cryptocurrency Market has Experienced a Steep Rise
Throughout the preceding year, the cryptocurrency market saw a significant increase in value. Despite recent price drops, there is still a lot of interest in cryptocurrencies.
The likelihood of more institutional participation in the market could be one explanation for the ongoing interest. As institutional interest in cryptocurrency grows, more products like ETNs will likely be offered on regulated exchanges.
VanEck launched Solana and Polkadot ETNs on Deutsche Boerse's Xetra in September.