Vanguard Calls Crypto 'Immature, Speculative' and Not an Investment

Vanguard is a prominent American investment management company known for its low-cost mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs). It is one of the largest investment companies in the world, both in terms of assets under management and the variety of funds it offers.

The investment firm has made a definitive stance against incorporating cryptocurrency-related products, including a Bitcoin ETF, into its offerings. Vanguard claims that the decision, outlined by Janel Jackson, Global Head of ETF Capital Markets and Broker & Index Relations, and Andrew Kadjeski, Head of Brokerage & Investments, reflects Vanguard’s commitment to long-term investment strategies and its cautious approach towards speculative assets.

In an article published on the website on January 24, the two executives explained their firm’s reasoning for rejecting the idea of offering any kind of crypto-related investment products, such as a spot Bitcoin ETF:

• No Plans for Crypto Products
  • Janel Jackson confirmed that Vanguard does not intend to launch its own Bitcoin ETF or any crypto-related products. This decision is rooted in the company’s rigorous product launch process, which prioritizes enduring investment merit and client needs. Despite the growing discussion around Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies, Vanguard does not see a fitting role for these assets in long-term portfolios.
• Blockchain Interest, Not Crypto
  • While Vanguard has expressed interest in blockchain technology for its potential to enhance capital market efficiency, this does not extend to cryptocurrencies themselves. The firm is actively involved in research to utilize blockchain in areas other than crypto.
• Crypto Viewed as Speculation
  • Vanguard categorizes crypto more as speculation than investment. Jackson highlighted that, unlike equities or bonds, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin have no inherent economic value or cash flow and can disrupt portfolio stability. This view is supported by a Morningstar article pointing out the heightened risk profile even a modest crypto allocation can bring to a traditional portfolio.
• Volatility and Trading Concerns
  • Andrew Kadjeski emphasized Bitcoin’s extreme volatility, with significant price fluctuations commonplace in the crypto market. Such volatility can tempt investors to trade more frequently, contrary to Vanguard’s philosophy of encouraging saving and long-term investing.
• Historical Precedent in Investment Decisions
  • Vanguard has a history of bypassing short-lived investment trends, such as internet funds in the late 1990s, focusing instead on long-term investor needs. This approach has been beneficial for their clients in hindsight.
• Brokerage Platform Strategy
  • The firm’s brokerage platform mirrors this cautious approach. Vanguard previously removed access to leveraged and inverse funds, ETFs, and most over-the-counter stocks due to their high risk and potential for misuse.
• Consistency with Vanguard’s Philosophy
  • The decision on crypto aligns with Vanguard’s mission statement and investment philosophy. While acknowledging that this stance may not be popular among all investors, Vanguard’s leaders emphasize their commitment to giving investors the best chance for investment success.

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