VanEck and Inter Invest Bring Bitcoin to French Pension Plans
VanEck partners with Inter Invest to introduce Bitcoin ETN to French pension plans, marking a first in digital asset inclusion for retirement savings.
VanEck has joined forces with Inter Invest to bring Bitcoin exposure to French pension savings plans through an exchange-traded note. This collaboration is the first to provide digital asset access to French pension investors. The product, the $407 million VanEck Bitcoin ETN (VBTC), offers a regulated way to include Bitcoin in retirement portfolios.
VBTC is fully backed and mirrors the MarketVector Bitcoin VWAP Close index. This ensures transparency and security, with a total expense ratio set at 1%, appealing to long-term investors seeking diversification.
Martijn Rozemuller, CEO of VanEck Europe, highlighted Bitcoin's potential as a long-term asset. Despite its volatility, he sees it as a typical phase for emerging assets. Rozemuller said, “We believe Bitcoin is an innovative long-term asset. Its current volatility reflects a value-seeking phase. Our ETN allows investors to access this dynamic in a regulated, easy-to-use product.”
Jean-Baptiste de Pascal, Deputy CEO of Inter Invest, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership's role in financial innovation. He said, “This partnership aligns with our strategy to democratize innovative financial assets. Including crypto in our retirement plan meets market demand for combining retirement preparation and digital asset diversification.”
The introduction of Bitcoin ETNs in French pension plans follows the first crypto ETN listings on the London Stock Exchange. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) approved this class for professional investors. However, digital assets still face skepticism, with the European Central Bank (ECB) questioning the legitimacy and stability of these products.
VanEck's ongoing involvement in the crypto space shows a commitment to innovation. In April, they enabled staking on the $150 million VanEck Ethereum ETN (VETH), providing more options for crypto investment. This move supports their strategy to offer diverse investment products in the growing cryptocurrency market.
This partnership responds to the increasing demand for financial products that combine traditional retirement planning with digital asset benefits. As cryptocurrencies gain popularity, such collaborations will help bridge traditional finance and digital markets. This initiative could set a precedent for similar projects globally, integrating digital assets into mainstream finance.
In summary, VanEck and Inter Invest's effort to offer Bitcoin in French pension plans is a significant financial development. It reflects the growing interest in digital assets and innovative investment solutions. This project not only provides a new option for French pension savers but also signifies a broader acceptance of digital assets in the global financial system.
