As of the end of 2025, active exchange-traded funds (ETFs) globally managed nearly $1.8 trillion in assets, revealing a significant shift in investment strategies. 21shares, a crypto asset manager, is positioning itself at the forefront of this evolution by focusing on actively managed products, according to president Duncan Moir. He emphasized that the dynamic nature of cryptocurrency makes it ideal for active management, combining various strategies to optimize risk and portfolio performance.
With the recent acquisition by FalconX in October, 21shares anticipates an acceleration in product development, particularly for more complex offerings. Moir noted that while demand for crypto exchange-traded products (ETPs) differs regionally, interest in larger cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC) and Ether (ETH) remains prevalent in the U.S. In contrast, European institutions are exploring newer assets, driven by a more mature investment landscape.
In response to this growing appetite, 21shares has recently introduced a new ETP in Europe linked to Strategy’s preferred stock (STRC), designed to provide access to high-yield investments. Early demand for this product indicates a strong interest among investors for yield-generating assets accessible via traditional brokerage channels.