Did MicroStrategy Mess Up By Choosing Bitcoin Over Ethereum? Analyst Weighs In

Dalmas Ngetich

1 year ago

2 mins read

Reason to trust

Strict editorial policy that focuses on accuracy, relevance, and impartiality

Created by industry experts and meticulously reviewed

The highest standards in reporting and publishing

How Our News is Made

Strict editorial policy that focuses on accuracy, relevance, and impartiality

Ad discliamer

Morbi pretium leo et nisl aliquam mollis. Quisque arcu lorem, ultricies quis pellentesque nec, ullamcorper eu odio.

Earlier today, the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) approved 19b-4 fillings for eight spot Ethereum exchange-traded funds (ETFs), paving the way for the highly anticipated institutional adoption of the second most valuable coin.

The decision comes after months of uncertainty and less than six months after the regulator approved spot Bitcoin ETFs. For all that the crypto community can remember this week, the regulator uncharacteristically “scrambled” and hastily communicated to spot ETF issuers to make amends to their applications.

Did MicroStrategy Make A Mistake Choosing Bitcoin Over Ethereum?

With spot Ethereum ETFs likely to be issued in the next few weeks, one analyst on X now thinks Michael Saylor, the former CEO of MicroStrategy, missed big rewards by choosing Bitcoin over Ethereum. As of May 24, MicroStrategy, a business intelligence firm and now one of the biggest public companies in the United States, has been increasing its BTC holdings over the years.

According to Bitcoin Treasuries, MicroStrategy is the largest public company holding BTC, controlling 214,400 BTC worth over $14 billion at press time.

MicroStrategy losing billions after choosing BTC over ETH | Source: @LeonWaidmann via X

However, with the United States SEC setting the ball rolling for spot Ethereum ETFs, the analyst is now pointing out a hypothetical scenario. If MicroStrategy had chosen ETH over BTC, their holding would have been worth over $19 billion at spot rates.

This level means MicroStrategy would be up over $4 billion. Assuming the business intelligence firm had chosen to buy and not hold but stake, their total holdings would be worth over $20.9 billion as of late May 2024.

ETH Trading At A Huge Discount: Will It Replicate BTC’s Success?

Looking at the aftermath of the approval and trading of spot Bitcoin ETFs, it becomes apparent that Ethereum prices might be significantly undervalued at spot rates. After a brief dip in mid-January, BTC prices surged, propelling Ethereum to a high of $4,100. In contrast, the world’s most valuable coin soared to breach $70,000 and set all-time highs at around $74,000.

Ethereum price trending upward on the daily chart | Source: ETHUSDT on Binance, TradingView

With 19b-4 forms from eight ETF issuers, including BlackRock and Fidelity, approved, the only hurdle is the approval of S-1 registration statements. There might be delays in this round. However, the United States SEC green lights, spot Ethereum ETF shares will begin trading.

Still, it is important to note that spot Ethereum ETF issuers will hold ETH via a regulated custodian and not stake.

Feature image from DALLE, chart from TradingView

Dalmas Ngetich

Dalmas, a seasoned crypto reporter, brings a unique perspective to the industry. His specialization in NFTs, blockchain, DeFi, and blockchain news for NewsBTC, combined with a background in mechanical engineering and over a decade of experience in journalism, has allowed him to craft over 10,000 news and feature articles over the past eight years. His diverse range of topics, including technology, Forex, and finance, reflects his comprehensive understanding of the crypto landscape.

His technical expertise and analytical skills have been recognized and featured by leading news outlets such as Investing.com, CoinTelegraph, Entrepreneur, Forbes, and other authority sites. Notably, he broke key news, including the Ripple and MoneyGram partnership, cementing his position as a thought leader in crypto.
The news exploded. Over 100,000 people devoured this meticulously crafted report, from seasoned investors to curious newcomers. His analysis wasn't just dry facts and figures; it crackled with insight, dissecting the implications of the partnership and its potential impact on the future of finance.

His deep understanding of the financial markets, technological advancements, and blockchain developments has made him a respected voice in the industry.

Dalmas is also the founder of BTC-Pulse, a crypto news site, further demonstrating his commitment to the field. He firmly believes that DeFi and NFTs are here to stay and will continue to drive financial inclusion.

Coming from Nairobi, Kenya, it is easy to see the source of his inspiration: Across Africa, millions lack access to traditional banks. Remote villages, limited documentation, and high minimum balances create insurmountable barriers.

DeFi, not just Maker or Aave, for example, but think of Bitcoin and USDT, cuts out the middleman. Forget banks with their limitations.
Even so, DeFi isn't a magic solution. The continent still struggles with reliable internet access, and educational campaigns highlighting the benefits of this wonderful solution are insufficient. Moreover, even for those interested, understanding DeFi can look like learning a new language.

Dalmas is here to help make the tech easy to understand and digestible, even for beginners.
The story of DeFi in Africa is still being written. Challenges abound, but the promise of a more inclusive financial future is a powerful motivator. With innovation and collaboration, Dalmas firmly believes that DeFi could become the key to unlocking Africa's full economic potential.
This possibility and its immense value motivate Dalmas to continue breaking key DeFi innovations and more across the globe. His engineering background further enhances his ability to deliver well-thought-out pieces that blend technical insight with clear, impactful reporting.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dalmas is deeply passionate about technology and politics. Policies drive adoption, and being at the forefront and keeping up with how they evolve is crucial for the sphere to mature.

When Dalmas is not closely monitoring the latest crypto events, he can be found in nature, exploring the picturesque countryside, and traveling with his family and friends. His love for adventure and discovery perfectly complements his investigative and reporting skills.
You can connect with Dalmas on X: @Dalmas_Ngetich, or contact him on Telegram @Dalmas_Ngetich.

Disclaimer: The information found on NewsBTC is for educational purposes only. It does not represent the opinions of NewsBTC on whether to buy, sell or hold any investments and naturally investing carries risks. You are advised to conduct your own research before making any investment decisions. Use information provided on this website entirely at your own risk.