BlackRock States That a 1% Shift to Crypto in Asian Portfolios Could Generate $2T in Inflows

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TLDR

  • Nicholas Peach of BlackRock stated that a 1% crypto allocation in Asian portfolios could result in approximately $2 trillion in inflows.
  • During Consensus Hong Kong, Peach estimated Asia’s household assets at roughly $108 trillion.
  • BlackRock’s spot Bitcoin ETF IBIT has accumulated around $53 billion in assets under management since its January 2024 launch.
  • Peach noted that Asian investors are already contributing to inflows into U.S.-listed crypto ETFs.

While a single percentage point might seem small, BlackRock suggests it could significantly impact crypto markets. A BlackRock executive told attendees at Consensus Hong Kong that Asia’s wealth makes this possible. Nicholas Peach mentioned that Asian advisers could recommend a 1% crypto component in portfolios. According to CoinDesk, he said this shift could translate to nearly $2 trillion in new inflows.

Allocation calculations shared at Consensus Hong Kong

Peach tied the to the region’s total household wealth. He put overall household assets at about $108 trillion, so even minor adjustments add up quickly.

He told the panel that advisers often start with model portfolios then apply small tilts. In that scenario, he explained, “a 1% allocation” could generate “nearly $2 trillion” in potential demand.

Peach described the figure as a thought experiment based on broad regional totals. He also noted that inflows would depend on product access and how advisers frame crypto risk.

IBIT’s growth contextualizes the discussion

Peach highlighted demand for crypto exchange-traded funds and regulated access. He referenced , iShares Bitcoin Trust, which trades as IBIT.

IBIT has grown rapidly since its January 2024 launch, now holding around $53 billion in assets. The same report stated that Asian investors have made meaningful contributions to U.S.-listed crypto ETF flows.

Market participants track ETF activity because it channels demand through brokerage accounts. Peach said this structure fits standard portfolio tools and simplifies custody choices.

BlackRock entered 2026 with a record $14.04 trillion in firmwide assets under management, per Reuters’ report following its fourth-quarter update. ETFs drove large net inflows for the firm.

Asian regulators progress toward broader ETF offerings

These comments came as several Asian markets review or expand crypto fund rules. Reports have focused on Hong Kong, Japan, and South Korea as they consider wider ETF lineups.

While these steps vary by market, they share a push for clearer listing and custody rules. This approach matters for institutions, as many need regulated vehicles to participate.

Hong Kong has hosted listings, while other jurisdictions discuss next steps. Policy updates often roll out in phases, and fund issuers tend to wait for final rule text.

Panel discussions in Hong Kong also addressed adviser training and suitability checks. Wealth firms frequently require risk questionnaires and set caps for higher-risk products in many markets.

Bitcoin background and risk perspectives from BlackRock leadership

BlackRock CEO Larry Fink has discussed bitcoin in public forums with caution. He called bitcoin an “asset of fear” and noted it can act as a hedge for some investors.

Fink also warned that remains volatile, and leverage can worsen short-term price moves. He said short-term trading is challenging, so timing matters for those treating it as a trade.

Bitcoin Magazine reported bitcoin near $68,000 after a drop from late 2025 highs, with a rebound following oversold weekly RSI levels. Peach’s panel comments focused on allocation decisions rather than price calls. He said adviser guidance and product access could shape whether the 1% allocation becomes common.