Bitcoin’s Approval as an ETF Asset Does Not Change Its Intrinsic Value, Say ECB Staff Members
According to a blogpost by two European Central Bank (ECB) staff members, Ulrich Bindseil and Juergen Schaaf, Bitcoin still lacks intrinsic value despite its approval as an asset for Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) in the US. They argue that Bitcoin poses risks to society and the environment.
Disagreement with Claims of Safety and Triumph
Bindseil and Schaaf express their disagreement with the claims made by Bitcoin supporters that the approval of ETFs confirms the safety of Bitcoin investments and the success of the cryptocurrency. They reiterate their stance that the fair value of Bitcoin is still zero.
The Resilience of Bitcoin
The authors attribute Bitcoin’s resilience to three factors:
- Ongoing manipulation of prices in an unregulated market without oversight or fair value
- Increasing demand for Bitcoin as a currency for criminal activities
- Shortcomings in authorities’ judgments and measures
The Potential Fallout and Responsibilities
Bindseil and Schaaf emphasize the significance of monitoring Bitcoin’s overall value, as it reflects the potential damage to society if a collapse occurs. They stress the importance of authorities protecting against money laundering, cybercrimes, financial losses for less financially educated individuals, and environmental damage.
Hot Take: Vigilance Needed to Safeguard Society from Bitcoin Risks
Despite its approval as an ETF asset, Bitcoin still lacks intrinsic value according to ECB staff members. It is crucial for authorities to remain vigilant in order to protect society from potential risks associated with the cryptocurrency. This includes addressing issues such as market manipulation, criminal activities, and environmental concerns. The approval of ETFs does not change the fundamental nature of Bitcoin, and caution should be exercised when considering investments in the cryptocurrency.