Swiss Regulator Approves Nation’s First Bitcoin ETF for Retail Investors

The regulator’s announcement highlighted a rising demand among investors for cryptocurrency assets, with Bitcoin (BTC) drawing particular attention.

Though FINMA did not name the fund provider, it noted that several companies have either filed for or announced intentions to launch Bitcoin ETFs.

In August 2025, SIX Swiss Exchange revealed that iShares would offer a Bitcoin exchange-traded product fully backed by BTC secured in cold storage through Coinbase Custody International Limited. FINMA clarified to Cointelegraph that such exchange-traded products (ETPs) operate under SIX Exchange Regulation rather than requiring FINMA’s authorization.

This approval removes a crucial regulatory obstacle for introducing Switzerland’s first Bitcoin ETF accessible to retail clients. However, the exact launch timing remains undisclosed.

Back in 2021, FINMA approved its first fund targeting qualified investors that mainly invested in a cryptocurrency basket. The regulator waived the usual diversification mandates, citing Bitcoin’s extensive trading history and notably high volume compared to other digital tokens.

Despite the approval, FINMA stressed the inherent market risks of investing in BTC, including the strong possibility of substantial capital losses stemming from cryptocurrencies’ well-known high volatility.

Switzerland is widely recognized as one of Europe’s leading crypto-friendly nations. Notably, in 2023 the Swiss city of Lugano became among the first globally to accept Bitcoin and Tether USDt (USDT) for all municipal payments.

The launch of a direct Bitcoin ETF for retail investors marks a significant milestone, enhancing accessibility to crypto investments under official regulatory oversight in a country known for its crypto-positive environment.