Asset Managers Launch Digital Asset ETFs Abroad While Domestic Market Lags

Domestic asset management firms are increasingly introducing exchange-traded funds (ETFs) centered around digital assets such as stablecoins, tokenization, and Bitcoin in international markets. In contrast, South Korea's domestic market is pursuing a different strategy by indirectly investing in related companies within traditional ETFs.

According to industry sources on February 17, Global X Japan, co-owned by Global X (50% stake) under the Mirae Asset Financial Group, listed the 'Global X Stablecoins & Tokenization ETF(ex-Japan)' on the Tokyo Stock Exchange in February. The product invests in global companies involved in stablecoin issuance, digital asset trading, and tokenization platforms rather than directly holding stablecoins like USDC.

Mirae Asset's overseas digital asset products include the 'Global X 21Shares Bitcoin ETF (EBTC)' and 'Global X 21Shares Ethereum ETF (EETH)', which hold Bitcoin and Ethereum directly. Samsung Asset Management also operates two funds in Hong Kong: the 'Samsung Blockchain Technologies ETF' and 'Samsung Bitcoin Futures Active ETF', targeting blockchain technology companies and Bitcoin futures traded on the CME.

Domestically, no physical digital asset ETFs have been launched yet. Products explicitly focused on stablecoins or tokenization-related companies are also scarce. However, some domestic ETFs indirectly expose investors to these sectors by including related firms within broader international stock ETFs. For example, Samsung Active Asset Management's 'KoAct US Nasdaq Growth Active' includes Strategy (a Bitcoin-focused company) and Circle Internet Group (USDC issuer).

Industry experts note that while domestic ETFs can include digital asset-related companies in existing funds, overseas markets have already advanced to specialized ETFs focused solely on stablecoin/tokenization firms or direct holdings of Bitcoin and Ethereum. Domestic managers are preparing for potential regulatory changes by expanding their digital asset business scope through partnerships and infrastructure development.

Mirae Asset is tokenizing 15 Global X ETFs via On-Chain Finance, while Shinhan Asset Management has recruited specialized talent and partnered with CANTON Foundation to develop blockchain-based solutions. Hanwha Asset Management has re-established its digital asset team and signed agreements with Solana Foundation for product research.