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The cryptocurrency industry has officially stepped into a new phase, according to Bitwise Asset Management CEO Hunter Horsley, who has declared that the “mainstream era” for Bitcoin and crypto has now begun. With a surge in institutional participation and the approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs, digital assets are no longer viewed as speculative outliers—but rather as serious components of modern investment portfolios.
A Turning Point for Bitcoin
In a recent interview, Horsley emphasized that Bitcoin’s perception has shifted dramatically over the past year. Once considered a fringe asset favored by early tech adopters and retail investors, Bitcoin is now being embraced by major financial institutions, asset managers, and wealth advisors. This transformation, he suggests, marks the true beginning of Bitcoin’s institutional breakout.
“The infrastructure is finally in place,” Horsley noted. “We’re seeing large firms gain exposure to Bitcoin, and more importantly, they’re doing so through regulated, accessible financial vehicles.”
The ETF Catalyst
One of the most significant catalysts for this shift has been the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs earlier this year. These ETFs, including those offered by major players such as BlackRock, Fidelity, and Bitwise itself, have opened the door for institutional investors who were previously hesitant due to regulatory or custodial concerns.
According to Bitwise, demand for these ETFs has exceeded expectations, and assets under management are steadily growing—an indicator of deepening trust in the asset class.
Advisors Are Catching On
Financial advisors, often seen as the gatekeepers of traditional investment strategies, are beginning to recommend Bitcoin exposure to their clients. Horsley noted that educational efforts, increased clarity on regulation, and the performance of Bitcoin compared to traditional assets have all contributed to this shift in attitude.
“Just a few years ago, crypto was off-limits for most advisors,” he said. “Now, we’re seeing serious conversations about long-term allocations.”
What’s Next for Bitcoin?
As more institutional capital flows into Bitcoin, experts believe this could lead to reduced volatility, increased market maturity, and broader acceptance across financial sectors. However, Horsley cautions that this is just the beginning of a much larger journey.
“We’re still early,” he said. “But the foundation has been laid. Institutions are here, and Bitcoin is no longer just an alternative—it’s becoming a core part of the modern investment landscape.”
Bitcoin’s journey from the edges of finance to the core of institutional portfolios represents a major milestone for the cryptocurrency market. With leaders like Bitwise paving the way and institutional players stepping in, the digital asset space is entering a new chapter—one where crypto is not just tolerated, but truly embraced by the financial mainstream.
