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Harvard Cuts Big Bitcoin Bets, Drops Ethereum Holdings

USA, CambridgeMonday, May 18, 2026

Harvard’s investment arm has trimmed its stake in a Bitcoin‑focused exchange‑traded fund (ETF), cutting the number of shares from 5.35 million to just over 3 million by the end of March. The remaining position is worth about $117 million at today’s price, a move that has pushed the fund from its former top spot to tenth place in the university’s portfolio.

The ETF was first purchased in mid‑2025, and its decline mirrors a broader sell‑off in the crypto market during the first quarter.

The university has also liquidated its entire holding of an Ethereum‑based ETF, a purchase that began in late 2025. Both funds suffered sharp drops this quarter, with the Bitcoin ETF falling nearly 3 % and the Ethereum ETF down more than 3 %. These sales reflect a cautious stance toward digital assets amid market volatility.

Financial data shows the Bitcoin ETF’s price ending the week at $44.82, while the Ethereum ETF closed at $16.76. Analysts note that the Bitcoin fund’s long‑term performance has weakened, and momentum indicators suggest further headwinds ahead.

Overall, Harvard’s strategy appears to be tightening its exposure to cryptocurrencies after a period of rapid growth. The move signals that even high‑profile institutions are rethinking their crypto positions as markets shift.

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