How to Buy Crypto ETFs

This guide explains how to purchase spot cryptocurrency ETFs in major markets. The core process is similar worldwide — use a brokerage to buy shares like any stock — but availability, regulations, and broker options vary by country.

Core Buying Process (Applies Globally)

  1. Open or Log Into a Brokerage Account

    Choose a brokerage that offers access to the desired market's crypto ETFs. Many global brokers provide cross-border access.

  2. Fund Your Account

    Deposit funds via bank transfer, wire, or card (processing times vary by country).

  3. Search for the ETF Ticker

    Find the ETF by ticker symbol (e.g., IBIT in the US, BTCC in Canada).

  4. Place Your Order

    Select market or limit order, enter shares, review, and confirm.

  5. Hold & Monitor

    Track your position in the brokerage app or our tools.

Buying Crypto ETFs by Country

United States

Most developed spot crypto ETF market.

  • Major spot ETFs: IBIT, FBTC, GBTC, ETHA, FETH
  • Brokerages: Fidelity, Schwab, Robinhood, Vanguard, Interactive Brokers
  • Trading hours: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM ET, Mon–Fri
  • Notes: No commission fees on most platforms; available in IRAs/401(k)s

Canada

Early adopter of spot crypto ETFs (since 2021).

  • Major ETFs: BTCC (Purpose Bitcoin), ETHH (Purpose Ether)
  • Brokerages: Wealthsimple, Questwealth, TD Direct Investing, RBC Direct
  • Notes: Traded on TSX; tax-advantaged in TFSA/RRSP accounts

Europe (EU/EEA)

Mostly ETPs/ETNs (not UCITS ETFs due to MiFID II rules).

  • Major products: 21Shares Bitcoin ETP, WisdomTree BTC ETP
  • Brokerages: Interactive Brokers, DEGIRO, Swissquote, Saxo Bank
  • Notes: Available in Switzerland, Germany, etc.; tax varies by country

Hong Kong

Asia's leading spot crypto ETF hub (launched 2024).

  • Major ETFs: CSOP BTC/ETH, Harvest BTC/ETH, Samsung BTC
  • Brokerages: Futu, Tiger Brokers, Interactive Brokers
  • Notes: No capital gains tax for individuals; highly accessible

Australia

Growing spot and futures ETF market.

  • Major ETFs: Monochrome BTC ETF, Global X BTC ETF
  • Brokerages: CommSec, SelfWealth, Stake
  • Notes: Traded on ASX; CGT discount after 12 months

South Korea

Spot crypto ETFs approved in 2026.

  • Major ETFs: Samsung BTC/ETH, Mirae Asset products
  • Brokerages: NH Investment, Korea Investment, Samsung Securities
  • Notes: 20% tax on gains above ₩2.5M threshold

Other Markets

  • Brazil: Hashdex spot BTC ETFs via B3 exchange
  • Singapore/UAE: Emerging products with low/no capital gains tax
  • Global brokers (Interactive Brokers, Saxo) often provide access to multiple markets

Next Steps

Crypto ETF Index is an independent informational resource. Buying crypto ETFs involves substantial risk of loss. This guide is not investment, financial, or tax advice. Always consult qualified professionals and verify with your brokerage/local regulations.