Hargreaves Lansdown warned investors that Bitcoin is a highly volatile asset with “no intrinsic value” and said crypto should not be relied on to meet financial goals; the platform, which manages £170 billion ($226.8 billion), will still permit qualified clients to buy newly listed UK crypto exchange-traded notes.
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Hargreaves Lansdown: Bitcoin is high-risk and lacks intrinsic value
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HL permits qualified clients to access new British crypto exchange-traded notes while cautioning retail investors.
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HL administers £170 billion ($226.8 billion); Bitcoin experienced large drawdowns and remains more volatile than stocks or bonds.
Hargreaves Lansdown Bitcoin warning: HL says Bitcoin has no intrinsic value—read the risks and what investors should consider now.
What did Hargreaves Lansdown say about Bitcoin?
Hargreaves Lansdown told clients that Bitcoin is a highly volatile investment with “no intrinsic value” and advised that cryptocurrency shouldn’t be relied upon to meet financial goals. The firm noted Bitcoin’s history of extreme losses and stated it is “not an asset class” suitable for typical growth or income portfolios.
How does HL’s stance compare with other major institutions?
HL’s warning contrasts with firms such as BlackRock, which applied for a Bitcoin ETF in 2023 and launched approved crypto funds in 2024, and with remarks from Bridgewater’s Ray Dalio advocating gold and Bitcoin as hedges.
Other institutions, including JP Morgan and individual executives like Jamie Dimon, remain publicly skeptical. These positions are reported as industry viewpoints and reflect differing risk tolerances and investment frameworks.
Why does HL consider Bitcoin riskier than stocks or bonds?
HL pointed to Bitcoin’s several periods of extreme losses and high day-to-day volatility. The firm emphasized Bitcoin lacks the cash flows, regulatory frameworks, and long-term income characteristics that define traditional asset classes like stocks or bonds.
What context did HL provide about their platform and policy?
Hargreaves Lansdown, which administers £170 billion ($226.8 billion) in assets, said that although longer-term Bitcoin returns have sometimes been positive, the asset’s volatility and risk profile mean it should not be included in client portfolios for growth or income.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bitcoin an ‘asset class’ according to Hargreaves Lansdown?
HL explicitly stated that Bitcoin is not an asset class and does not have characteristics that justify inclusion in portfolios targeted at growth or income.
Will HL stop offering crypto products?
HL said it will allow qualified investors to access new British crypto exchange-traded notes but cautioned retail clients about relying on crypto to meet financial goals.
How are other institutions positioned on Bitcoin?
Positions vary: BlackRock moved to offer bitcoin-related ETFs, Bridgewater’s Ray Dalio recommended allocations to gold and Bitcoin as hedges, and some executives like Jamie Dimon remain publicly skeptical. These views reflect diverse institutional strategies.
Key Takeaways
- Clear warning: Hargreaves Lansdown views Bitcoin as highly volatile and lacking intrinsic value.
- Qualified access: The platform will permit qualified clients to invest in British crypto exchange-traded notes.
- Industry split: Institutional opinions differ—some firms embrace crypto products while others remain cautious.
Conclusion
Hargreaves Lansdown’s public warning frames Bitcoin as a speculative, high-volatility asset that “has no intrinsic value” and should not be relied upon to meet financial goals. Investors should weigh HL’s guidance against other institutional positions, reassess portfolio allocations, and seek professional advice where appropriate.
Published by COINOTAG — Published: 2025-10-10 — Updated: 2025-10-10
