Nomura Group Launches Bitcoin Fund for Institutional Investors
Japan’s largest investment bank and brokerage group, Nomura Group, has introduced a Bitcoin fund through its digital asset subsidiary. This move marks the subsidiary’s first foray into digital adoption investment solutions and aims to meet the increasing demand from institutional investors for access to digital assets.
The Bitcoin Adoption Fund, launched by Nomura’s subsidiary, Laser Digital Asset Management, allows institutional investors to gain exposure to Bitcoin in a cost-effective and secure manner. The fund utilizes Komainu, a regulated custody solution established by Nomura, Ledger, and Coinshares in 2018, to safeguard its assets.
According to Sebastien Guglietta, the head of Laser Digital Asset Management, Bitcoin plays a crucial role in the ongoing digital transformation of the global economy. He believes that long-term exposure to Bitcoin presents an opportunity for investors to capture this macro trend.
Nomura’s Crypto Unit Faces Challenges
Nomura Holdings has set a goal to make its crypto unit, Laser Digital, profitable within two years. However, despite offering Bitcoin derivatives to institutional clients, the bear market has hindered its progress. Nomura acknowledges that it may take longer than expected for Laser Digital to become profitable due to recent market downturns.
The price of BTC currently stands at $27,232, representing a nearly 45% increase over the past year. However, Bitcoin faces challenges from the US Securities and Exchange Commission’s anti-crypto stance and regulatory uncertainties.
Hot Take: Nomura Embraces Crypto Adoption with Bitcoin Fund
Nomura Group’s launch of the Bitcoin Adoption Fund demonstrates its commitment to crypto adoption and meeting the needs of institutional investors seeking exposure to digital assets. By leveraging their subsidiary Laser Digital Asset Management and utilizing a regulated custody solution, Nomura aims to provide a secure and cost-effective investment option for institutional investors interested in Bitcoin.
However, challenges lie ahead for Nomura’s crypto unit, Laser Digital, as it strives to become profitable amidst market downturns. Despite this, the increasing demand for Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies highlights the growing interest in digital assets among traditional financial giants like Nomura, JPMorgan, and Goldman Sachs.