The world of cryptocurrency is constantly evolving, and with the possibility of a spot Bitcoin ETF being approved, questions about the pricing structures of crypto exchanges have arisen. Some analysts argue that the low fees offered by certain exchanges may prompt them to revisit their pricing models. However, caution is advised by Caitlin Long of Custodia Bank, stating that exceptionally low ETF fees could have serious implications for issuers in terms of covering their costs. Long raises concerns that these issuers may resort to lending securities to offset their losses, potentially leading to adverse consequences. In this article, we will delve into the cost analysis of purchasing and custodying Bitcoin through various exchanges and ETFs, examining the potential risks and benefits.
To assess the cost differences, we analyzed several popular crypto exchanges and their transaction fees. The chart below showcases the fees for executing a market order without any promotional benefits such as staking, holding native tokens, or high trading volume. It is worth noting that while exchanges like Webull, eToro, and Robinhood offer zero-commission trading, others like Hargreaves Lansdown, BestInvest, Interactive Investor, and ig.com charge a fixed fee for U.S. ETF purchases.
When considering Bitcoin ETFs, it is crucial to understand their custody and fee structures. Unlike exchanges, ETFs offer exposure to Bitcoin without holding the actual asset. A custodian safeguards the underlying Bitcoin on behalf of the ETF issuer and investors. However, upon exiting the ETF, you can only receive cash, not Bitcoin. This distinction in custody is significant, especially given the regulatory scrutiny ETFs have encountered compared to crypto exchanges.
After a thorough analysis, it is evident that the cost of purchasing Bitcoin varies depending on the method chosen. For a $2,000 purchase, crypto.com emerges as the cheapest option at just $1.50, compared to the lowest ETF fee of $4.80 for holding the same amount for a year. However, withdrawal fees should be taken into account. While crypto.com imposes a 0.0006 BTC withdrawal fee ($27 at the time of writing), other exchanges such as Binance charge only the network withdrawal fee.
Considering self-custodial options, the chart below illustrates the total cost, including both the purchase and withdrawal fees, for different amounts of Bitcoin. When using an ETF, you are limited to cash withdrawals only. On the other hand, exchanges allow you to withdraw Bitcoin to a self-custody wallet or convert it to fiat and make cash withdrawals.
As previously mentioned, regulatory scrutiny is much higher for spot Bitcoin ETFs than for many crypto exchanges. The FTX debacle in 2022 serves as a stark reminder of the importance of knowing where your crypto is custodied. With this in mind, Binance emerges as the cheapest exchange for purchasing Bitcoin and retaining self-custody, offering peace of mind for investors concerned about custody risks.
When considering the cost analysis of purchasing and custodying Bitcoin, the choice between ETFs and exchanges is not straightforward. While crypto.com proves to be the cheapest exchange for purchasing Bitcoin, investors must account for withdrawal fees. ETFs, on the other hand, provide exposure to Bitcoin without direct asset ownership, but only allow cash withdrawals upon exit. Regulatory scrutiny and custodial risk are paramount considerations when opting for ETFs or exchanges. For those who prioritize self-custody, Binance is the most cost-effective option. It is important to note that this analysis assumes a single purchase without any special privileges or volume bonuses. Many exchanges offer fee discounts for active traders, ultimately reducing the cost of buying and holding Bitcoin. As the cryptocurrency market continues to evolve, investors need to carefully analyze their options and determine the most suitable approach based on their specific needs and preferences.