Harvard Cuts Ethereum ETF Holdings While Abu Dhabi Expands Bitcoin Investment

Major institutions continued reshaping their crypto ETF exposure during the first quarter of 2026 as new SEC filings revealed growing interest in Bitcoin products while some investors reduced Ethereum positions.

Abu Dhabi sovereign wealth fund Mubadala increased its holdings in BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF from 12.7 million shares to more than 14.7 million shares by March 31. At current market prices, the position is valued at nearly $660 million. The Abu Dhabi Investment Council also maintained its existing 8.2 million IBIT shares despite the market downturn during the quarter.

Meanwhile, Harvard University continued reducing its crypto exposure. The university cut its BlackRock Bitcoin ETF holdings by 43%, lowering its position to around 3 million shares worth approximately $117 million. Harvard also completely exited its $86.8 million spot Ethereum ETF investment only one quarter after opening the position.

Universities and Banks Continue Expanding Crypto Strategies

Dartmouth College kept its Bitcoin ETF holdings unchanged but added a new position in the Bitwise Solana Staking ETF worth nearly $3.7 million. The move highlighted growing institutional interest beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum products.

Brown University maintained its Bitcoin ETF exposure, while Emory University shifted more capital into Grayscale’s Bitcoin Mini Trust.

Several banks also adjusted positions during the quarter. Royal Bank of Canada increased Bitcoin ETF holdings while using options strategies for hedging. Barclays disclosed a large IBIT position combined with put and call options as institutions continued balancing risk during crypto market volatility.