Abu Dhabi Invests $408 Million in BlackRock’s Spot Bitcoin ETF, Strengthening Crypto Strategy

Mubadala Investment Company, Abu Dhabi’s formidable sovereign wealth fund, continues to assert its dominance in global finance, overseeing a $330 billion portfolio across six continents and 11 sectors. With assets under management (AUM) soaring to AED 1.2 trillion ($326.74 billion) in 2024, a 9.1% increase from 2023, Mubadala’s strategic investments in artificial intelligence, healthcare, and BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) highlight its innovative approach.

A notable investment is Mubadala’s $408.5 million stake in BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), holding 8,726,972 shares as of March 31, 2025, a 6% increase from 2024. This position, 0.8% of its $50 billion U.S. equity portfolio, signals confidence in digital assets, May 16, 2025.

“Mubadala is more competitive than ever, pursuing global opportunities,” said CEO Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak.

Khaldoon Al Mubarak, Mubadala group chief executive and managing director. Pawan Singh / The National

Abu Dhabi’s Strategy in the Digital Asset Revolution

Mubadala Investment Company has made headlines with its recent $408.5 million investment in BlackRock’s Spot Bitcoin ETF, underscoring its commitment to digital assets and innovation. This move highlights Abu Dhabi's growing interest in the cryptocurrency space, cementing its role as a digital asset hub.

Last month, USDC issuer Circle received approval to operate as a money services provider in Abu Dhabi, marking a significant step in the region’s financial technology evolution. Circle has also partnered with Hub71, Abu Dhabi’s leading international technology hub, to foster innovation in digital asset technology.

Moreover, in March, Binance announced that Abu Dhabi’s MGX had acquired a $2 billion stake in the platform, further highlighting the city’s expanding crypto initiatives. With Bitcoin at the core of its investment strategy, Abu Dhabi continues to solidify its position in the global cryptocurrency market.

Future Impact: Market Optimism and Global Influence

Mubadala’s $408.5 million investment in BlackRock’s IBIT sparked widespread excitement across social media communities. Many users expressed optimism, suggesting that Mubadala’s move could encourage other sovereign wealth funds to explore digital assets. Analysts further fueled optimism, projecting that bitcoin prices could reach new highs in 2025, partly propelled by such prominent institutional investments.

Looking ahead, Mubadala’s diversified $330 billion portfolio and AED 1.2 trillion AUM position it to shape global investment trends. Its AI and digital asset investments signal a pivot toward innovation, potentially attracting more sovereign funds to cryptocurrencies.