What Is the NCIQ ETF? A Complete Guide to Returns, Expense Ratio, Holdings, and Alternative ETFs
The Hashdex Nasdaq Crypto Index ETF (NCIQ) tracks the Nasdaq Crypto Settlement Price Index and offers market-cap-weighted, diversified exposure to a basket of major cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin. The key factors in choosing it are how its exposure structure differs from single-coin spot ETFs such as IBIT, and its outlook going forward.
What Is the Hashdex Nasdaq Crypto Index ETF?
This is a passive ETF that tracks the Nasdaq Crypto US Settlement Price Index. It holds major cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, on a market-cap-weighted basis, providing diversified exposure to the broader crypto market.
It suits investors who want to invest in a diversified basket of cryptocurrencies through a single holding rather than in a single coin.
It is an ETF managed by Hashdex using a passive (index-tracking) approach.
How Do You Invest in the Hashdex Nasdaq Crypto Index ETF?
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Tracked Index | Nasdaq Crypto US Settlement Price Index |
| Management Style | Passive (index-tracking) |
| Rebalancing Frequency | Regular rebalancing under the index rules |
| Distribution Frequency | No distributions |
| Total Expense Ratio | 0.25% |
| Manager | Hashdex |
The fund holds the cryptocurrencies included in the Nasdaq Crypto Index in proportion to their market capitalization, tracking the performance of the crypto market as a whole. Rather than concentrating on a single coin, it places multiple major cryptocurrencies in one basket to pursue diversification, and changes to the index composition are reflected periodically in accordance with the index rules.
- Diversified exposure to multiple cryptocurrencies
- Index-based passive management
Hashdex Nasdaq Crypto Index ETF Size and Costs (AUM and Management Fee)
Assets under management (AUM) stand at $470.5M, and the total expense ratio is 0.25% per year.
Hashdex Nasdaq Crypto Index ETF Performance and Trends
The net asset value moves sharply with changes in cryptocurrency prices, and the recent trend has tracked the volatility of the broader crypto market. Short-term swings react sensitively to the macro environment and risk appetite.
Fund flows fluctuate with market interest in spot crypto ETFs, and inflows tend to stand out when appetite for risk assets strengthens. Demand for diversified baskets is one pillar of the fund flows.
Hashdex Nasdaq Crypto Index ETF Pros and Cons
Diversification across multiple cryptocurrencies is its strength, while the high volatility inherent in crypto assets and regulatory uncertainty are its weaknesses.
💪 Key Strengths
⚠️ Points to Watch
Hashdex Nasdaq Crypto Index ETF Alternative ETFs and Related Products
IBIT, FBTC, and GBTC shown in the table are spot ETFs concentrated in a single asset, Bitcoin, and their structure differs from NCIQ, which offers exposure to a diversified basket. If you want single-asset exposure to Ethereum, you can consider ETHA, and if you want low-fee Bitcoin exposure, BTC is also worth reviewing. The key to choosing is whether you prefer single-coin concentration or a diversified basket.
| Ticker | Name | Price | Change | AUM | Total Expense Ratio | Dividend Yield | 1Y |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF | $45.95 | -0.2% | $65.9B | 0.25% | - | -26.6% | |
| Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund | $70.61 | -0.2% | $14.6B | 0.25% | - | -26.6% | |
| Grayscale Bitcoin Trust | $62.66 | -0.3% | $10.2B | 1.50% | - | -27.5% | |
| iShares Ethereum Trust ETF | $54.08 | +0.4% | $7.8B | 0.25% | - | -38.2% | |
| Grayscale Bitcoin Mini Trust ETF | $35.89 | -0.2% | $5.1B | 0.15% | - | -26.5% |
Hashdex Nasdaq Crypto Index ETF Investor Checkpoints
Here are the points to review before investing in NCIQ. Volatility and the regulatory environment are the key variables for crypto assets, and the diversification structure and fee burden should also be examined, so it is wise to calmly go through the items below before buying.
| Checkpoint | What to Check | Current Status |
|---|---|---|
| 💵 Expense Ratio | Check the impact of cumulative costs over a long holding period | Annual fee applies |
| 📊 Diversification Structure | Check how basket exposure differs from a single coin | Diversified across multiple assets |
| 📉 Volatility | Whether you can tolerate crypto price swings | High |
| ⚖️ Regulatory Environment | Monitor changes in crypto regulation | Needs checking |
The high volatility inherent in crypto assets and regulatory uncertainty are the main drivers of short-term price movements. When market risk appetite weakens, short-term losses can be large, so you should assess your risk tolerance in advance.
It is a suitable choice for investors who want exposure to a diversified crypto basket through a single holding rather than a single coin. If your goal is single-asset Bitcoin exposure, spot ETFs such as IBIT and FBTC fit better, and if your goal is diversified exposure, NCIQ fits better.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. All investment responsibility lies with the investor.
This article reflects information as of June 18, 2026.