Ark Invest Trades Grayscale for $5.6M Block Stake

Last Updated November 8th 2023
3 Min Read

Key Takeaways -

  • Ark Invest has reallocated funds from Grayscale Bitcoin Trust to increase its investment in Block, Inc., indicating a strategic shift in its crypto portfolio.
  • Despite a slight dip in GBTC share value, Ark maintains a significant position in the trust, as well as in Coinbase, highlighting its continued investment in major crypto assets.
  • Ark is actively pursuing the launch of a Bitcoin spot ETF, with its Ark21Shares ETF application still awaiting SEC approval, showcasing its commitment to expanding crypto investment products.

Cathie Wood's Ark Invest has made a significant shift in its investment strategy within the cryptocurrency market. The firm has recently sold a substantial number of Grayscale Bitcoin Trust (GBTC) shares and used the proceeds to increase its investment in Block, Inc., a company specializing in Bitcoin payment technology.

Trading Strategy Update

In a detailed look at Ark's trading maneuvers, the firm offloaded approximately 139,506 shares of GBTC. The capital from this transaction was quickly mobilized and allocated towards the acquisition of shares in Block, Inc. This calculated reinvestment strategy was executed across a suite of Ark's investment funds, which includes the ARK Innovation ETF (ARKK), the ARK Next Generation Internet ETF (ARKW), and the Ark Fintech Innovation ETF (ARKF). This redistribution of assets underscores Ark's agile approach to portfolio management in response to the fluctuating cryptocurrency market conditions.

Current Market Positions

Current Market Positions

Ark's divestment from GBTC occurred at a juncture where each share of GBTC was valued at approximately $28.10, reflecting a modest downturn of 0.74%. Despite this strategic sale, Ark Invest continues to hold a significant position in GBTC, maintaining its status as the second-largest shareholder. In addition to its GBTC holdings, Ark Invest has a considerable investment in Coinbase, which stands as the preeminent cryptocurrency exchange in the United States. This diversified investment approach demonstrates Ark's confidence in the cryptocurrency sector's growth potential.

Focus on Block, Inc.

Turning the spotlight on Block, Inc., which many may recall by its former name, Square, we see a company that has been capturing increased market attention, particularly under the astute leadership of Jack Dorsey, who is also known for his role as the former CEO of Twitter. Block's flagship product, the Cash App, has become synonymous with ease of use and accessibility in Bitcoin transactions. The company's financial trajectory has been impressive, with the third quarter reporting a robust 24% increase in net revenue year-over-year, bringing the total to a remarkable $5.62 billion. This financial upswing is a testament to Block's growing influence and success within the cryptocurrency payment sector.

The Bitcoin ETF Horizon

Ark Invest is among several investment firms eagerly awaiting the SEC's approval for a Bitcoin spot exchange-traded fund (ETF). The firm's application for the Ark21Shares ETF, filed in June 2021, is still pending.

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