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Roundhill Ball Metaverse ETF expands into cryptocurrency with new holdings
The Roundhill Ball Metaverse ETF (METV) has taken a significant step forward following the latest quarterly rebalancing of the Ball Metaverse Index by incorporating positions in ether and bitcoin. The ETF now holds a 6.8% position in ether and a 2.0% position in bitcoin, accessed via CI Galaxy Ethereum ETF and CI Galaxy Bitcoin ETF, respectively. This strategic move highlights the growing importance of cryptocurrencies in the evolving landscape of the metaverse.
METV’s investment of approximately $27 million in ether marks the largest such investment for a U.S.-listed ETF, highlighting the growing recognition of digital assets in traditional finance.
Importance of Cryptocurrencies in the Metaverse
Matthew Ball, founder of Ball Metaverse Research Partners, highlighted the crucial role of cryptocurrencies and blockchain protocols in driving the development of the metaverse. He noted that the Ball Metaverse Index, designed by an Expert Council composed of senior alumni from global leaders in cloud services, virtual reality, digital distribution and blockchain, ensures comprehensive exposure to the multi-billion dollar metaverse theme. This methodology, which reflects the growing importance and adoption of cryptocurrencies, has led to the inclusion of both ether and bitcoin in the index.
Jesse Walden, co-founder and general partner of Variant Fund, as well as co-founder of Ball Metaverse Research Partners and member of its Expert Council, reiterated that the growing support and adoption of cryptocurrencies will further accelerate the emergence of the metaverse. He emphasized that blockchains function as a system of digital property rights for the Internet, forming the necessary infrastructure for a thriving metaverse economy. This infrastructure facilitates the growth of new businesses, creators and developers, while providing users with real ownership over money, identity, data and digital assets.
Expanding the reach and capabilities of Metaverse technologies
Ball Metaverse’s research partners highlighted that the company has been in an ongoing trend for several decades in which increasing amounts of time and money are spent on various virtual experiences. As technologies continue to advance, their capabilities are expanding in both scope and significance. Modern game engines are now employed in self-driving vehicles and factory operations, while AI-powered digital twins are used to predict natural disasters such as forest fires. Additionally, augmented reality headsets enable numerous remote surgeries each year, further showcasing the practical applications of these technologies.
The growing influence and attraction of mirror worlds within the metaverse continue to reshape how people interact with digital environments. This trend points to a future in which virtual experiences play a vital role in everyday life, driving both economic and technological progress.
Wider implications and future prospects
The Roundhill Ball Metaverse ETF’s inclusion of ether and bitcoin through exchange-traded products (ETPs) rather than direct investments in the cryptocurrencies themselves demonstrates a cautious but progressive approach to integrating digital assets into traditional financial instruments. This method allows investors to gain exposure to the potential growth and benefits of cryptocurrencies without directly holding the assets.
As the metaverse continues to evolve, the integration of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies is expected to play an increasingly vital role. These digital assets offer a framework for secure, decentralized ownership and transactions, essential for a thriving virtual economy. By embracing these technologies, METV and its investors position themselves at the forefront of this transformative trend.
The Ball Metaverse Index, with its pioneering methodology and expert guidance, remains a vital tool for navigating the complexities of the metaverse landscape. As digital and virtual experiences become more intertwined with everyday life, the importance of strategic investments in these areas will only increase. The continued advancement and adoption of metaverse technologies and cryptocurrencies are poised to redefine the future of digital interaction and economic activity.