Best Crypto ETFs in Canada (2025): How to Invest Safely in Digital Assets

2025-06-10

Crypto investing can be risky, complex, and overwhelming—especially for beginners. But for Canadians looking to gain exposure to Bitcoin and Ethereum without dealing with wallets, private keys, or exchanges, crypto ETFs offer a regulated and simple solution.

Whether you’re investing through a TFSA, RRSP, or a taxable account, crypto ETFs make it easier—and safer—to step into the digital asset world.

Let’s break down the best crypto ETFs in Canada, their features, and how to invest in them responsibly in 2025.

What Are Crypto ETFs?

Crypto ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds) are investment funds that track the price of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum.

Rather than buying and storing crypto yourself, you buy shares in an ETF that holds crypto in secure custody (typically institutional-grade cold storage).

Key Advantages:

Tradeable on the TSX like any stock
Can be held in tax-sheltered accounts (TFSA/RRSP)
Lower technical barrier than direct crypto ownership
Backed by reputable financial institutions

Best Crypto ETFs in Canada (2025)

Best Bitcoin ETFs

ETF	Symbol	MER	Assets	Why Choose It
CI Galaxy Bitcoin ETF	BTCX-B.TO	0.85%	$230M+	Lowest fees, strong track record
Fidelity Advantage Bitcoin ETF	FBTC.TO	0.96%	$175M+	No management fee, top-tier brand
Purpose Bitcoin ETF	BTCC-B.TO	1.49%	$1.4B	Largest in Canada, hedged series available
Purpose Bitcoin Yield ETF	BTCY-B.TO	1.28%	N/A	~9% yield via covered calls

Best Ethereum ETFs

ETF	Symbol	MER	Assets	Why Choose It
CI Galaxy Ethereum ETF	ETHX-B.TO	0.74%	$469M+	Lowest fees for Ether
Purpose Ether ETF	ETHH-B.TO	1.48%	$162M+	Includes carbon offset options
Evolve Ether ETF	ETHR.TO	1.23%	$47M+	Solid Ether exposure with cold storage

Best Mixed Crypto ETF

ETF	Symbol	MER	Assets	Exposure
Evolve Cryptocurrencies ETF	ETC.TO	1.68%	$26M+	Bitcoin + Ethereum combo

Pros and Cons of Crypto ETFs

Pros

Simple to Buy/Sell: Just like stocks, via your brokerage
Safe Custody: Crypto is held in cold storage
Registered Account Friendly: Eligible for TFSA and RRSP
Diversification: Add to your portfolio without extra risk tools

Cons

Higher Fees: MERs are generally 0.74%–1.68%
No Blockchain Access: Can’t use DeFi, stake, or vote
Price Tracking Issues: May deviate slightly from underlying asset
Still Volatile: Crypto prices can swing wildly

How to Invest Safely in Crypto ETFs

1. Keep It Small

Crypto should be a small portion of your portfolio (5–10% max for most investors).

2. Use TFSA or RRSP

Gain tax advantages by holding ETFs in registered accounts.

3. Prioritize Low Fees

ETFs like BTCX-B.TO and ETHX-B.TO offer lower fees, which add up long term.

4. Diversify Across Coins

Consider a mix of BTC and ETH exposure—or use a blended ETF like ETC.TO.

5. Understand the Risks

These are still crypto assets—volatility is part of the game.

6. Avoid Leveraged Products

Stick to unleveraged ETFs for safety and lower risk.

7. Monitor Regularly

Keep an eye on performance, rebalance annually, and don’t panic sell.

Are Crypto ETFs Worth the Fees?

Yes—if you value convenience, security, and tax benefits. While the fees are higher than direct crypto ownership, ETFs remove the complexities of managing wallets, securing private keys, or navigating crypto exchanges.

For most long-term investors, especially those using registered accounts, the trade-off is worth it.

Final Thoughts

Crypto ETFs in Canada are a great way to gain secure, regulated exposure to digital assets. For most investors, ETFs like the CI Galaxy Bitcoin ETF (BTCX-B.TO) and CI Galaxy Ethereum ETF (ETHX-B.TO) strike the best balance of cost, simplicity, and safety.

As with any investment, do your research, assess your risk tolerance, and consider speaking to a financial advisor. But if you’re crypto-curious and want a safer entry point—crypto ETFs are a smart place to start.