BlackRock’s team issued a statement on June 23 saying bitcoin’s role in investment portfolios is shifting in 2026. BTC▼$60,334.00 is now a diversification asset, not an investment foundation. We explain why the firm changed its view.
BlackRock, the world’s largest asset manager, says bitcoin’s (BTC) role in investment portfolios is evolving. Managing Director Michael Gates recommends allocating about 1% to 2% of a total portfolio to the leading cryptocurrency. In his view, such a position can boost potential returns without adding excessive risk.
Hot topic: Strategy STRC Slump Puts Saylor Bitcoin Buying Under Scrutiny
BlackRock describes bitcoin as a “supplemental diversifier” that can complement traditional assets–stocks for growth and bonds for stability. The firm emphasizes that exceeding this range sharply increases bitcoin’s contribution to overall portfolio risk due to volatility and sudden sentiment shifts.
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What Other Crypto Players Say: 1% to 80% Bitcoin Allocation
Bitwise recommends pairing bitcoin with gold as complementary assets. Bank of America offers Merrill and Private Bank clients a range of 1% to 4% depending on risk tolerance. Ray Dalio allows up to 15% as a hedge against macroeconomic risks. BBVA recommends up to 7% in crypto for wealth clients.
At the opposite end of the spectrum is Mexican billionaire Ricardo Salinas Pliego, who holds about 80% of his wealth in bitcoin.
BlackRock’s recommendation is more than just advice–it’s institutional recognition of bitcoin as a legitimate asset class. For large investors, it signals that bitcoin can be included in model portfolios alongside tech giant stocks. Still, the firm warns that even a small allocation requires regular rebalancing due to volatility and the uncertain adoption path.
Read more: Bitcoin Holdings by Major Companies Worldwide 2026
BlackRock’s Product Expansion: BITA and Beyond Spot ETFs
In June 2026, BlackRock launched the iShares Bitcoin Premium Income ETF, a covered call product that sells options on about 25-35% of accumulated bitcoin monthly to generate income. The fund is aimed at financial advisors, insurers, and pension funds that have avoided bitcoin due to its lack of cash flows. The launch extends BlackRock’s BTC product lineup beyond its spot IBIT.
Over the past 45 days, investors have pulled $7.8B from the U.S. spot bitcoin ETFs, and IBIT hasn’t been immune. Still, BlackRock continues to expand its digital asset presence, with its BUIDL$1.00 fund playing a key role in real-world asset tokenization.
Learn more: BlackRock vs Fidelity — Who Controls the Future of Bitcoin ETFs?
