Abu Dhabi Funds Increase Bitcoin ETF Holdings Past $1 Billion Despite Cryptocurrency Market Slump
February 18, 2026 — Abu Dhabi’s prominent sovereign wealth fund Mubadala Investment Company, along with its independently-operated unit, the Abu Dhabi Investment Council, significantly expanded their investments in Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) during the final quarter of 2025. This move comes amid a notable downturn in the cryptocurrency market, signaling continued confidence in digital assets despite recent price declines.
According to regulatory filings released as of December 31, 2025, Mubadala Investment Company raised its stake in BlackRock Inc.’s iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF by 46% from the previous quarter, acquiring approximately 12.7 million shares. Concurrently, the Abu Dhabi Investment Council increased its position by 3%, holding 8.2 million shares through a subsidiary entity.
Combined, the holdings of these Abu Dhabi-based entities now exceed $1 billion in Bitcoin ETF investments. This development highlights a strategic inclination by funds overseeing nearly $2 trillion in assets toward maintaining and even augmenting cryptocurrency exposure during periods of market volatility.
The iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF, managed by global investment giant BlackRock, offers investors a regulated vehicle to gain exposure to Bitcoin without the complexities of direct cryptocurrency ownership. It has become an increasingly popular tool among institutional investors keen on integrating digital assets into diversified portfolios.
Despite broader crypto price pressures and evolving regulatory landscapes, the increased positions by Mubadala and its investment unit underscore sustained institutional interest in Bitcoin as a long-term asset. This move contrasts with some market participants who have reduced crypto exposure amid recent slumps.
Abu Dhabi’s investment strategy reflects confidence in the growing adoption of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technologies globally. As digital assets continue to mature, sovereign wealth funds and large institutional investors remain key players shaping the future trajectory of this evolving financial sector.
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