Crypto Investment Shaken By $1.2B ETF Exit

While traditional markets wobble under macroeconomic uncertainties, the crypto sphere is not spared, especially on the institutional investment vehicle side. This week, US spot Bitcoin ETFs experienced a massive capital outflow, exceeding one billion dollars in net withdrawals, a strong signal that does not go unnoticed by observers.

A red week for Bitcoin ETFs : 1.22 billion dollars of outflows

US-listed spot Bitcoin ETFs experienced a week of decline marked by a massive disengagement of institutional investors.

In total, 1.22 billion dollars of net outflows were recorded across all products during the week. Friday crystallized the trend, with 366.6 million dollars in withdrawals. BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust stood out with 268.6 million dollars of outflows, followed by Fidelity and Grayscale, also affected by this retrenchment movement.

These outflows coincided with a sharp drop in the Bitcoin price, falling from over $115,000 on Monday to around $104,000 on Friday, a correction of over 10,000 dollars in a few days. This decline mechanically translated into selling pressure on institutional products. The details of daily flows show a concentration of withdrawals among the largest players :

• BlackRock : –268.6 million $ ;
• Fidelity : –67.2 million $ ;
• Grayscale (GBTC) : –25 million $ ;
• Valkyrie : minor withdrawals ;
• Other ETFs : neutral flows on Friday.

These figures reflect a temporary market distrust towards Bitcoin, in a global context marked by macroeconomic uncertainties. While no official statement explains these disengagements, several analysts mention tactical profit-taking combined with increased volatility and expectations regarding upcoming decisions by the US Federal Reserve (Fed).

Crypto engagement remains high despite uncertainties

Contrary to this downward trend, Charles Schwab shows explicit optimism about crypto products. In a statement aired Friday on CNBC, CEO Rick Wurster stated that Schwab clients today hold “20 % of all crypto ETPs in the United States”, a figure that shows sustained, even growing interest despite current market shocks.

He also highlighted that the company’s crypto site has seen visits increase by 90 % year-over-year, calling the topic “highly engaging” for Schwab customers.

This statement comes as Schwab already offers crypto ETFs and Bitcoin futures and plans to open spot crypto trading to its clients by 2026. A long-term strategy that contrasts with the immediate nervousness observed this week in the markets.

For Nate Geraci, ETF expert, this stance deserves attention : “I hope you are paying attention“, he tweeted referring to the proactive approach of the brokerage giant.

Charles Schwab CEO on crypto…

“It’s a topic that’s of high engagement.”

Schwab clients own *20%* of all crypto exchange traded products.

Visits to Schwab crypto site ↑ 90% in last year.

Schwab operates one of largest brokerages in US.

Hope you’re paying attention. pic.twitter.com/XR10TRR6NK

— Nate Geraci (@NateGeraci) October 18, 2025

Far from ignoring market volatility, Schwab seems to be betting on a cycle of progressive adoption, relying on the growing maturity of retail and institutional investors. While October, usually favorable to Bitcoin, currently shows a decline, some analysts continue to believe in a rebound by the end of the month, notably connected with potential monetary decisions by the Fed.