Crypto Asset Management for Institutional Investors

Key steps involved in crypto asset management for institutional investors:

• Develop investment strategy: Institutional investors typically have a specific investment mandate or set of guidelines that dictate the types of assets they can invest in and the level of risk they are willing to take on. This will influence the investment strategy developed by the asset manager.
• Select assets: Once the investment strategy has been determined, the asset manager will identify the specific cryptocurrency assets that align with the strategy. This may involve conducting thorough research and analysis of the market, the underlying technology, and the financial performance of the assets.
• Manage assets: The asset manager will then actively manage the portfolio of cryptocurrency assets, including buying and selling as necessary to achieve the desired investment objectives. This may involve the use of trading algorithms and other tools to optimize portfolio performance.
• Monitor and report on performance: The asset manager will regularly monitor the performance of the portfolio and report this back to the institutional investor. Typically, specialized software is used to track and analyze the market, and to create regular reports detailing the portfolio's performance.
• Risk management: Finally, the asset manager will implement risk management strategies to ensure the portfolio is protected against potential losses. This may include diversifying the portfolio, using hedging techniques, and implementing stop-loss orders to limit potential losses.

Table of Contents:

1. Definition of crypto assets and their characteristics
2. The current state of the crypto market and its potential for institutional investors
3. Risk factors and considerations
4. Crypto asset investment strategies and approaches
   1. Active vs. passive management
   2. Diversification across different crypto assets and strategies
   3. Use of data analysis and quantitative techniques
5. Custody and storage solutions for crypto assets
   1. Cold storage vs. hot storage
   2. Custodial services for institutional investors
6. Case studies and examples of institutional investment in crypto assets
7. The future outlook for the crypto market and potential opportunities for institutional investors

Definition of crypto assets and their characteristics

Cryptocurrencies use advanced cryptography to secure their transactions, making it nearly impossible for hackers to compromise the system. This security makes them an appealing option for online transactions, as they offer a level of protection that traditional financial systems do not.

Another characteristic of crypto assets is that they operate on decentralized networks, such as the blockchain, which adds security and transparency. The decentralized network ensures that all transactions are recorded and verified by multiple parties in a fast and efficient way.

Most of the crypto assets are highly liquid, meaning they can be easily bought and sold on exchanges around the world. This makes them a convenient option for investors who want to quickly and easily buy and sell their assets.

In addition, crypto assets such as Bitcoin are often used as a store of value, similar to traditional currencies or precious metals. Many investors see them as a hedge against inflation and economic instability, as they are not tied to any specific country or economy.

The current state of the crypto market and its potential for institutional investors

The cryptocurrency market has experienced a lot of ups and downs over the past few years. In 2021, the market reached its peak with the price of Bitcoin reaching almost $70,000. However, since then, the market has gone through a series of declines and recoveries.

Despite the volatility, the market has continued to grow and attract more investors. In recent years, there has been an increasing interest from institutional investors in the crypto market. These investors include hedge funds, pension funds, and even traditional financial institutions such as banks. If you are more interested in crypto hedge funds, we have created the largest and most comprehensive database with more than 1,100 crypto funds. Click here to get more information.

One reason for this interest is the potential for high returns which attracted many investors who are looking for alternative investment opportunities. The crypto market has the ability to offer significant returns in a short period of time.

Another reason for the interest in the crypto market is the increasing adoption of cryptocurrencies by mainstream businesses. Many companies, such as PayPal and Visa, have started accepting cryptocurrencies as a form of payment. This trend is expected to continue as more businesses see the benefits of using cryptocurrencies, such as low transaction fees and faster processing times.

Despite the potential for high returns and the increasing adoption of cryptocurrencies, the crypto market is still considered to be high risk. The market is highly volatile and has experienced numerous hacks and scams. This has caused some institutional investors to be cautious about entering the market.

However, there are efforts being made to increase the security and stability of the market. For example, the development of stablecoins, which are cryptocurrencies pegged to a stable asset such as the US dollar, has helped to reduce the volatility in the market.

Risk factors and considerations

One of the main risks associated with crypto assets is their volatility. Cryptocurrencies are known for their extreme price fluctuations, with some experiencing significant price increases or decreases in a short period of time. This volatility can be attributed to several factors, including market speculation and changes in regulatory frameworks.

Another risk factor to consider is the lack of regulatory oversight in the crypto market. While some countries have implemented strict regulations on crypto assets, others have yet to do so. This lack of regulation can lead to issues such as scams, fraud, and market manipulation, which can result in significant losses for investors.

Security risks are also a concern in the crypto market. Cryptocurrencies are often stored in digital wallets, which can be vulnerable to hacks and other security breaches. It is important for investors to take the necessary precautions to protect their crypto assets.

Crypto asset investment strategies and approaches

Active vs. passive management

One question that many investors face is whether to opt for active or passive management of their crypto assets.

Active crypto asset management refers to a strategy in which the investor or a team of professionals actively seek out opportunities to buy and sell cryptocurrency in an effort to generate profits. This typically involves analyzing market trends, researching individual coins, and making decisions based on that information.

On the other hand, passive crypto asset management involves simply holding onto a set portfolio of cryptocurrencies for a long period of time, with the hope that the overall market will increase in value. This strategy does not involve actively seeking out opportunities to buy and sell, but rather relies on the natural appreciation of the market.

Both active and passive crypto asset management have their pros and cons. Active management can potentially generate higher returns, as the investor has the ability to capitalize on short-term market fluctuations. However, it also carries a higher level of risk, as the investor must constantly be monitoring the market and making decisions based on incomplete information.

Passive management, on the other hand, involves less risk and requires less time and effort from the investor. However, it also has the potential for lower returns, as the investor is not actively seeking out opportunities to buy and sell.

Ultimately, the decision between active and passive crypto asset management will depend on the individual investor's goals, risk tolerance, and available time and resources. Those with a higher risk tolerance and a willingness to actively monitor the market may opt for active management, while those who prefer a more hands-off approach may choose passive management. It's important for investors to carefully consider their options and choose the strategy that best aligns with their goals and risk tolerance.

Diversification across different crypto assets and strategies

Diversification is a key concept in investing, and it is no different in the world of cryptocurrency. By spreading your investments across different crypto assets and strategies, you can potentially reduce risk and increase the potential for returns.

One way to diversify your crypto portfolio is by investing in different types of cryptocurrencies. While Bitcoin is the most well-known and widely traded crypto asset, there are thousands of others available, each with their own unique features and potential. For example, Ethereum is a smart contract platform that enables the creation of decentralized applications, while XRP is a digital currency designed for international payments. By investing in a variety of different crypto assets, you can potentially benefit from the strengths of each and reduce the risk of your portfolio being impacted by the success or failure of any single asset.

Another way to diversify your crypto investments is by using different strategies. For example, you could invest in long-term holds, where you buy and hold crypto assets for an extended period of time in the hopes of realizing significant gains. Alternatively, you could engage in trading, where you buy and sell crypto assets in the short-term in an attempt to profit from market fluctuations. By using a combination of these strategies, you can potentially maximize your returns and reduce the risk of any single strategy not performing as expected.

It is important to note that diversification does not guarantee a profit or protect against loss. It is simply a way to manage risk and increase the potential for returns. As with any investment, it is important to thoroughly research and understand the risks and potential rewards before making any decisions.

Use of data analysis and quantitative techniques

Data analysis and quantitative techniques have become increasingly important in the world of investing, and this is especially true in the realm of cryptocurrency. As the market for crypto assets has grown and matured, investors have turned to data-driven approaches to make informed decisions about which assets to buy and sell.

One of the key advantages of using data analysis and quantitative techniques in crypto investing is that it allows investors to make more objective, evidence-based decisions. By using data to analyze trends and patterns, investors can identify opportunities and risks that might not be immediately apparent based on subjective analysis alone.

There are a number of different tools and techniques that investors can use to analyze data in the crypto market. Some common approaches include:

Technical analysis: This involves using charts and other visualizations to identify patterns and trends in the price and volume of crypto assets. Technical analysts often use tools such as moving averages and Bollinger bands to help them identify potential buy and sell signals.

Fundamental analysis: This approach involves evaluating the underlying factors that may affect the value of a crypto asset. This could include things like the strength of the company behind the asset, the size of the market it operates in, or the technological innovations it brings to the table.

Sentiment analysis: This involves using natural language processing and machine learning techniques to analyze social media posts, news articles, and other sources of information to gauge the general sentiment around a particular crypto asset. This can be useful for identifying buying or selling opportunities based on changes in market sentiment.

In addition to these tools and techniques, investors can also use quantitative models to make more informed investment decisions. These models can be used to analyze large amounts of data in order to identify patterns and relationships that might not be immediately apparent to the human eye.

One example of this is the use of machine learning algorithms to identify trends and patterns in the crypto market. By training these algorithms on historical data, investors can create models that can make predictions about the future performance of specific assets. This can help investors identify opportunities for buying or selling assets in a more timely and accurate manner.

Custody and storage solutions for crypto assets

Cold storage vs. hot storage

Cryptocurrency investors and holders have to decide where to store their assets: cold storage or hot storage. Both options have their pros and cons, and it's important to understand the differences between them in order to make an informed decision.

Cold storage refers to offline storage of cryptocurrency assets. This can include storing the private keys on a hardware wallet, a paper wallet, or even on a USB drive that is not connected to the internet. The main advantage of cold storage is that it is much more secure than hot storage. Since the assets are offline, they are not vulnerable to hackers or other online threats. Cold storage is also useful for those who want to hold onto their assets for the long term, as it minimizes the risk of accidental loss or theft.

On the other hand, hot storage refers to online storage of cryptocurrency assets. This includes storing the private keys on a web-based wallet or an exchange. The main advantage of hot storage is that it is much more convenient than cold storage. You can easily access and trade your assets from any device with an internet connection. Hot storage is also useful for those who need to frequently access their assets, such as for day trading or making regular payments.

However, hot storage also has its downsides. It is much less secure than cold storage, as it is vulnerable to hackers and other online threats. If your hot storage is hacked or your private keys are stolen, you could lose all of your assets. Hot storage is also more prone to technical issues, such as website downtime or server outages.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to use cold or hot storage depends on your needs and risk tolerance. If you are a long-term investor who values security above all else, cold storage is the way to go. If you need frequent access to your assets and are willing to accept the additional risk, hot storage may be the better option. It is also a good idea to use a combination of both cold and hot storage, with the majority of your assets in cold storage and a smaller amount in hot storage for convenience.

No matter which option you choose, it is important to keep your private keys safe.

Custodial services for institutional investors

Custodial services are an integral part of the cryptocurrency ecosystem, particularly for institutional investors. These services provide secure storage and management of digital assets, helping to ensure the safekeeping and accessibility of investors' assets.

For institutional investors, the security and reliability of custodial services are of utmost importance. Many of these investors have large portfolios of cryptocurrency assets, and the risk of loss due to hacking or other security breaches can be devastating. Custodial services provide a layer of protection, using advanced security measures such as multi-factor authentication and cold storage to keep assets safe.

In addition to security, custodial services also offer convenience for institutional investors. These services allow investors to easily access and manage their assets, without the need for complex software or hardware setups. This can be especially beneficial for investors who are new to the cryptocurrency space and may not have the technical expertise to manage their own assets.

There are a number of different custodial service providers available, each with their own unique features and offerings. Some providers offer a full range of services, including asset storage, trading, and reporting, while others may focus on specific areas such as security or liquidity. It is important for institutional investors to carefully research and compare different custodial service providers to find the one that best meets their needs.

Case studies and examples of institutional investment in crypto assets

Institutional investment in crypto assets has become increasingly popular over the past few years, with many large financial institutions beginning to allocate a portion of their portfolios to these digital assets. While there are many potential benefits to institutional investment in crypto assets, it is important to carefully consider the risks and potential drawbacks as well.

One notable example of institutional investment in crypto assets is the investment by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's endowment fund. In 2017, the MIT endowment fund made a significant investment in the digital asset management firm, Polychain Capital. This investment allowed the fund to gain exposure to a diversified portfolio of crypto assets, including bitcoin, ethereum, and other altcoins.

Another example of institutional investment in crypto assets is the investment made by Yale University's endowment fund. In 2018, Yale's endowment fund made a significant investment in the cryptocurrency asset manager, Paradigm.

There are several key lessons that can be learned from these case studies of institutional investment in crypto assets. First, it is important to carefully evaluate the risk profile of any investment in crypto assets. These assets are highly volatile and can be subject to significant price fluctuations, which can make them a risky investment.

Second, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks of investing in crypto assets. For example, many crypto assets do not have the same level of regulatory oversight as traditional financial assets, which can make them less secure.

Finally, it is important to carefully consider the long-term potential of crypto assets. While there is no doubt that crypto assets have the potential to generate significant returns, it is also important to consider the potential risks and challenges that may arise over time.

The future outlook for the crypto market and potential opportunities for institutional investors

The crypto market has come a long way since the inception of Bitcoin in 2009. While it was initially seen as a niche market for individual investors, the crypto market has now attracted the attention of institutional investors.

One of the main reasons for this shift is the increasing mainstream acceptance of cryptocurrencies. More and more people are starting to understand the benefits of using cryptocurrencies, such as faster transaction times and lower fees compared to traditional financial systems. This has led to a growing interest in cryptocurrencies among institutional investors, who are looking to diversify their portfolios and potentially earn higher returns.

Another factor driving the interest of institutional investors in the crypto market is the increasing regulation of the industry. While the crypto market has historically been known for its lack of regulation, this is changing as governments around the world are starting to put in place regulations to ensure the security and stability of the market. This increased regulation is providing institutional investors with greater confidence in the market and is making it easier for them to invest in cryptocurrencies.

The future outlook for the crypto market is therefore looking bright.

About 21e6

21e6 Capital is a Swiss investment advisor, connecting professional investors with tailor-made crypto investment products. We focus on risk management of crypto and digital asset exposure for family offices and institutional investors. Our expertise in crypto asset management stems from a team combining decades of experience in traditional financial services with native and in-depth knowledge in digital assets.

21e6 Capital has analyzed over 1,000 crypto hedge funds across the world and condensed them into a selection that can yield crypto-exposure with minimized downside risk. Our risk management solution, provided by OpenMetrics Solutions, is also trusted by the largest Swiss pension funds.

The 21e6 Capital team builds upon strong academic roots with a track record of leading crypto asset and decentralized finance (DeFi) publications and research, ensuring state-of-the-art crypto investment solutions for professional investors, family offices and asset managers.