Franklin Templeton Expands Crypto Offerings with New Bitcoin and Ethereum ETF

Franklin Templeton, a global asset management firm, has introduced a new exchange-traded fund (ETF) designed to provide investors with exposure to Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH). Trading under the ticker EZPZ, the ETF reflects the increasing integration of digital assets into mainstream financial markets.

A Balanced Crypto ETF for Traditional Investors

The EZPZ ETF tracks the US CF Institutional Digital Asset Index, a market-cap-weighted benchmark managed by CF Benchmarks. At launch, the fund allocates 87% to Bitcoin and 13% to Ethereum, aligning with the dominant market shares of these two cryptocurrencies.

Franklin Templeton emphasizes that EZPZ simplifies crypto investing, allowing investors to gain exposure without the complexities of direct purchases, custody, or security risks. The fund also comes with a low-cost structure, offering a 0.19% sponsor fee, which will be waived until August 31, 2025.

Strategic Growth and Future Plans

Franklin Templeton plans to expand EZPZ’s asset pool as regulatory approvals pave the way for additional cryptocurrencies. This approach could position the ETF as a comprehensive digital asset investment option for U.S. investors seeking diversified exposure through a single product.

This move follows the firm’s earlier successes with the Franklin Bitcoin ETF (EZBC) in January 2024 and the Franklin Ethereum ETF (EZET) in July 2024, reinforcing its commitment to the crypto investment sector.

“As digital assets continue to evolve, we aim to provide investors with simple, cost-effective solutions to participate in this growing market,” said Roger Bayston, Franklin Templeton’s Head of Digital Assets.

Investment Considerations

The launch of EZPZ coincides with a surge in crypto ETF activity in the U.S., reflecting increased institutional interest in digital assets. Investors looking for regulated and low-friction exposure to Bitcoin and Ethereum may find this ETF an attractive option. However, crypto markets remain highly volatile, and regulatory changes could impact long-term performance.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. Always conduct your own research before making investment decisions.