Recent filings of 13F forms reveal that Mubadala Investment Company, Abu Dhabi’s sovereign wealth fund, and the State of Wisconsin Investment Board have both increased their investments in Bitcoin through BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF (IBIT). These disclosures offer valuable insights into the shifting strategies of major institutional investors regarding digital assets.
Mubadala Investment Company’s filing shows ownership of over 8.2 million shares of IBIT, with an estimated value of almost $437 million. According to information available on the fund’s website, this investment is integrated within a larger, diversified portfolio that manages assets worth hundreds of billions.
It was discussed at the Abu Dhabi Bitcoin Summit in November that countries in the Gulf region are increasingly investing in Bitcoin. Furthermore, industry leaders like Changpeng Zhao have emphasized the importance of this development, pointing out that it involves one of the region’s several sovereign wealth funds.
In addition to Mubadala, other prominent investment organizations in Abu Dhabi, such as the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), the Abu Dhabi Developmental Holding Company (ADQ), and the Emirates Investment Authority (EIA), actively manage substantial assets, reportedly totaling approximately $1.6 trillion. This significant financial power highlights the region’s increasing interest in incorporating digital assets into their traditional investment approaches.
Sina G., COO of 21st Capital, suggested that Abu Dhabi’s actions could signal the beginning of a broader, state-led competition in Bitcoin adoption. This strategic positioning aligns with the region’s overarching goal of becoming a key hub in the cryptocurrency industry.
Wisconsin Investment Board Increases Bitcoin Holdings
The State of Wisconsin Investment Board (SWIB) has also significantly adjusted its cryptocurrency investments. Recent filings indicate that its exposure to Bitcoin via the IBIT ETF has increased by almost 110% compared to the previous quarter. SWIB’s share count rose from 2,898,051 to 6,060,351, demonstrating a strong commitment to digital assets.
As of December 31, SWIB’s Bitcoin holdings were valued at approximately $321.5 million. It is worth noting that IBIT is now the only Bitcoin ETF held by the state fund, following modifications to its wider digital asset portfolio. SWIB operates as an independent state agency responsible for managing assets for the Wisconsin Retirement System, the State Investment Fund, and other related state funds.
Investment Position Summary
| Entity | Asset | Estimated Value | Notable Change |
| Mubadala Investment Company | IBIT Shares | Approximately $437 million | Part of a diversified portfolio managing hundreds of billions in assets |
| Wisconsin Investment Board | IBIT Shares | Approximately $321.5 million | Share count increased by nearly 110% from the prior quarter |
These institutional shifts underscore a growing trend among major investment managers to diversify into the rapidly expanding cryptocurrency market. As both sovereign wealth funds and state agencies increase their investments in Bitcoin, the traditional lines between conventional finance and digital assets are blurring, potentially leading to a transformative effect on the global investment environment.
Jason Walker, aka “Crypto Maverick,” is the energetic new member of cryptovista360.com. With a background in digital finance and a passion for blockchain, he makes complex crypto topics engaging and accessible. His mix of analysis and humor simplifies volatile market trends. Outside work, Jason explores tech, enjoys spontaneous road trips, and American cuisine. Crypto Maverick is ready to guide you through the ever-changing crypto landscape with insight and a smile.