We can still hear The Clash: London calling. This time, however, London can't resist the lure of bitcoin. The London Stock Exchange is preparing to offer cryptocurrency ETNs similar to bitcoin ETFs in the US.

Bitcoin ETN information

The London Stock Exchange (LSE) has released some information that will help participants apply for financial products called cryptocurrency ETNs (Exchange Traded Notes). This indicates that it is open to applications for financial products that reflect the value of bitcoin. In this way, the LSE wants to give more investors the opportunity to invest in the original cryptocurrency.
A bitcoin ETN is a type of investment product that can be traded on an exchange, similar to stocks. The value of an ETN follows the price of bitcoin. By authorizing bitcoin ETNs, the LSE hopes to offer investors a safe and regulated way to invest in bitcoin.

Bitcoin should have a physical presence

According to the LSE, bitcoin ETNs must have a physical presence. This means that their value must be backed by physical bitcoins. These are securely stored in a cold wallet that is not connected to the internet.
The LSE's decision shows that traditional investors and institutions are increasingly interested in bitcoin. As bitcoin grows in popularity, financial institutions are looking for ways to incorporate bitcoin into their services.
In addition, the adoption of bitcoin ETNs is a sign that bitcoin regulations are becoming clearer around the world. This allows institutions to feel more confident offering bitcoin-related products.

The difference between ETNs and ETFs

The biggest difference is ownership. In an ETF you are a co-owner, whereas in an ETN you are buying a debt instrument. This makes ETNs more sensitive to the credit risk of the issuer. If the issuer goes bankrupt, the value of the ETN may become less.