- Abu Dhabi wealth funds’ bitcoin ETF holdings exceeded $1 billion through BlackRock’s IBIT in Q4 2025 filings.
- Mubadala and Al Warda increased IBIT exposure in late 2025 even as the bitcoin price declined by over 20%.
- Their combined holdings have fallen to about $800 million in Q1 2026 as bitcoin extends its year-to-date losses.
The two state-backed investors increased their positions in BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust. Mubadala holds approximately 12.7 million shares, and Al Warda about 8.2 million shares.
Sovereign Funds Increase IBIT Exposure in Q4
Abu Dhabi wealth funds have filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission to increase holdings in BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT).
Al Warda Investments reported holding 8,218,712 shares. Its position carried an estimated value of roughly $408 million at year-end.
Together, the two investors controlled more than $1 billion in IBIT exposure. The combined allocation reflected a marked increase from prior quarterly disclosures.
Mubadala added nearly four million shares between October and December. Meanwhile, Al Warda modestly lifted its stake from the previous quarter.
Both entities filed Form 13F filings to provide transparency into U.S.-listed equity holdings.
Dip Buying During Bitcoin’s Price Decline
The expansion in Abu Dhabi wealth funds’ bitcoin ETF holdings occurred during a volatile quarter. Bitcoin declined around 23% in the fourth quarter of 2025.
Despite falling prices, both funds increased exposure to IBIT. Market participants described the strategy as buying during weakness.
At the time of reporting, bitcoin traded near $67,846. However, the fourth-quarter purchases took place when prices were lower.
By early 2026, bitcoin had fallen another 22% to 23% year to date. As a result, the combined IBIT position declined to roughly $800 million.
Assuming no additional purchases, market depreciation accounted for the reduced valuation. The drop reflects price movement rather than disclosed share sales.
Public commentary around the filings circulated on the social media platform X. Several market observers referenced the steady accumulation during the downturn.
Institutional Commitment to Spot Bitcoin ETFs
Abu Dhabi wealth funds’ bitcoin ETF holdings signal continued institutional engagement with regulated crypto products. IBIT launched in early 2024 and rapidly became a leading U.S. spot bitcoin ETF.
As a regulated vehicle, IBIT offers direct bitcoin price exposure without custody management. This structure has attracted sovereign and institutional capital.
Representatives linked to Abu Dhabi’s investment entities have described bitcoin as a long-term store of value. Comparisons to gold have appeared in related statements.
During a recent industry panel, BlackRock’s head of digital assets discussed ETF investor behavior. He noted that long-term holders dominate IBIT ownership patterns.
According to comments shared on X, hedge fund activity has not driven sustained selling pressure. Instead, many ETF investors appear positioned for extended horizons.
While early 2026 has seen reduced retail activity and lower volatility, sovereign allocations remain visible. The filings indicate continued participation despite broader market weakness.
Abu Dhabi wealth funds’ bitcoin ETF holdings, therefore, remain a focal point in institutional bitcoin adoption. The year-end 2025 positions provide a measurable benchmark for sovereign exposure through U.S.-listed spot ETFs.