It’s time to talk about Bitcoin

It’s time to talk about Bitcoin
Advisers don’t have to join the bulls, but they better join the discussion.
MAR 08, 2021

Bitcoin fell 5.3% last Thursday, plummeting to $48,357.31.

Bitcoin bulls and bears will respond to that statement of fact with disparate views. (Disclosure: I’m a Bitcoin agnostic.) The bears might note that the current price and volatility stem from speculative froth across all financial markets. But the bulls would likely counter that the digital asset is grabbing more mainstream attention and the inherent value is coming to the fore, and that’s why the price has climbed so high. But they will talk about it. 

The battle of words reminded me of a recent conversation with a portfolio manager who discussed having to evaluate the Noise-to-AUM ratio of any potential investment. 

For years, that N/AUM ratio for Bitcoin has skewed, dare I say, loudly toward noise. The mystery of its creation, and the debate of its value overwhelmed any real value, or AUM applied toward it. And that let people avoid the conversation. 

That has changed. Between Tesla Inc.’s investment (putting Bitcoin above employees), Chamath Palihapitiya putting the power of his voice behind it, and the S-1 filing by Coinbase Global Inc., the ratio is shifting quickly toward even. 

And as that ratio turns even, it’s a conversation that advisers can no longer avoid. Advisers don’t have to join the bulls, but they better join the discussion.

Latest News

NASAA moves to let state RIAs use client testimonials, aligning with SEC rule
NASAA moves to let state RIAs use client testimonials, aligning with SEC rule

A new proposal could end the ban on promoting client reviews in states like California and Connecticut, giving state-registered advisors a level playing field with their SEC-registered peers.

Could 401(k) plan participants gain from guided personalization?
Could 401(k) plan participants gain from guided personalization?

Morningstar research data show improved retirement trajectories for self-directors and allocators placed in managed accounts.

UBS sees a net loss of 111 financial advisors in the Americas during the second quarter
UBS sees a net loss of 111 financial advisors in the Americas during the second quarter

Some in the industry say that more UBS financial advisors this year will be heading for the exits.

JPMorgan reopens fight with fintechs, crypto over fees for customer data
JPMorgan reopens fight with fintechs, crypto over fees for customer data

The Wall Street giant has blasted data middlemen as digital freeloaders, but tech firms and consumer advocates are pushing back.

The average retiree is facing $173K in health care costs, Fidelity says
The average retiree is facing $173K in health care costs, Fidelity says

Research reveals a 4% year-on-year increase in expenses that one in five Americans, including one-quarter of Gen Xers, say they have not planned for.

SPONSORED How advisors can build for high-net-worth complexity

Orion's Tom Wilson on delivering coordinated, high-touch service in a world where returns alone no longer set you apart.

SPONSORED RILAs bring stability, growth during volatile markets

Barely a decade old, registered index-linked annuities have quickly surged in popularity, thanks to their unique blend of protection and growth potential—an appealing option for investors looking to chart a steadier course through today's choppy market waters, says Myles Lambert, Brighthouse Financial.