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What is a Cryptocurrency Index Fund?

Gosia Surowiec
Published:
June 13, 2025
‍•
4
min

What is a Cryptocurrency Index Fund?

A cryptocurrency index fund is a type of investment that lets you buy a mix of top cryptocurrencies all at once, instead of picking just one. By tracking a collection of top-performing digital assets, these funds simplify crypto investing and reduce the risk tied to single-coin investments, making them an attractive option for those looking to diversify their portfolio with multiple crypto assets.

Key Takeaways

  • Cryptocurrency index funds offer diversified exposure to multiple top-performing cryptocurrencies
  • These funds simplify the investment process for beginners - no need for active trading, and many times you don't even need to own a crypto wallet.
  • While providing unique advantages, such as professional management and automation, crypto index funds also come with risks, including market volatility and potential management fees that can impact overall returns.

Understanding Crypto Index Funds

An overview of crypto index funds and their significance in the cryptocurrency market.

A cryptocurrency index fund is an investment vehicle designed to track a group of cryptocurrencies, typically the top-performing ones. Much like traditional index funds, which track a collection of stocks or other securities, crypto index funds provide a diversified approach to investing in digital assets. This means that instead of putting all your eggs in one basket, you gain exposure to a variety of crypto assets, which can help mitigate the risks associated with owning a single cryptocurrency.

Crypto index funds also simplify the investment process by enabling individuals to invest through traditional brokerage accounts, eliminating the need for digital wallets. This ease of access makes it possible for more eligible people to participate in the growing cryptocurrency market through direct investment without needing specialized knowledge or tools.

How Crypto Index Funds Operate

Crypto index funds operate by pooling together various cryptocurrencies based on specific criteria, such as market capitalization. This blend of digital assets within a single investment ensures built-in diversification, which helps mitigate the risk tied to individual cryptocurrencies.

Leveraging the expertise of fund managers allows investors to navigate the complexities of the volatile cryptocurrency market more effectively. This professional oversight ensures that the fund remains aligned with its investment strategy, whether it follows a market cap-weighted, equal-weighted, or thematic approach. Rebalancing typically occurs on a monthly basis to maintain alignment with the market capitalization of the included assets.

Moreover, in United States these funds may be governed by regulations such as the Investment Company Act, which adds a layer of security and trust for investors. Transactions within these funds are designed to provide transparency and reliability. This regulatory environment helps investors feel more secure in their investments, knowing that their insured funds are managed according to established law guidelines. Companies providing these services can be registered as an investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”).

Advantages of Crypto Index Funds

Investing in crypto index funds offers several significant advantages:

  • Broad exposure to various crypto assets, reducing the risks associated with investing in a single coin.
  • A diversified approach that ensures if one cryptocurrency’s value declines, the overall impact on your portfolio is minimized.
  • Ease of entry and management. Investors in crypto index funds don’t need to navigate the complexities of the volatile crypto market by themselves. This saves a considerable amount of time and effort for investors, making it an appealing option for beginners and busy professionals.
  • This strategy is particularly beneficial for long-term investors seeking stability and sustained growth without the constant need for active management.
  • Overall, crypto index etf funds provide an easier, more secure way to gain exposure to the cryptocurrency market.

Risks Involved with Crypto Index Funds

crypto assets management illustration

Despite their advantages, crypto index funds come with inherent risks that investors should be aware of. The past performance is no guarantee of future gains. Market volatility is one of the most significant risks associated with these funds. The nature of the cryptocurrency market is highly volatile, with values fluctuating significantly in a short period. This can lead to substantial financial losses, and it is recommended that investors should only invest amounts they can afford to lose.

Another risk is the limited trading amount. Unlike individual cryptocurrencies that trade 24/7, these funds are not traded around the clock, index funds usually trade once per month. This limitation can be a double-edged sword, depending on the investor’s expectations and investment strategy.

Additionally, while crypto index funds offer diversification, they often come with management fees that can reduce overall returns. These fees vary between different funds and can impact the net gains of your investment. It’s crucial for investors to carefully consider these costs and weigh them against the potential benefits of diversified exposure to the cryptocurrency market.

Selecting the Right Crypto Index Fund

Choosing the right crypto index fund involves evaluating several critical factors:

  • Different funds may focus on various indices, such as the top 10 cryptocurrencies by market capitalization or other criteria.
  • It’s essential to understand each fund’s strategy and how it aligns with your investment goals.
  • Consider how the fund seeks to balance the digital assets.

Fee structure is another crucial aspect to consider:

  • Management fees can differ significantly between various crypto index funds.
  • It’s worth comparing the expenses and expense ratio of different funds.

Finally, reviewing the fund’s historical performance can provide insights into how well it has reflected market changes over time. Although past performance is not indicative of future results, it can still offer valuable context. Assessing these factors will help you select a crypto index fund that aligns with your investment strategy and risk tolerance.

Diamond Pigs' Top 10 Cryptocurrency Index Strategy

Diamond Pigs offers a unique strategy that focuses on the top 10 cryptocurrencies by market capitalization. Each month, the new top 10 coins (for example Bitcoin or Ethereum) are selected based on their market value, ensuring that higher-value cryptocurrencies receive greater weight in the portfolio. This method helps investors capitalize on the strengths of leading cryptocurrencies while managing the market’s inherent volatility.

The strategy’s intelligent monthly rebalancing ensures that the portfolio remains aligned with market trends. Adjusting the holdings based on market cap shifts, Diamond Pigs’ approach aims to maximize returns and minimize risks. This method is particularly appealing for long-term investors seeking steady growth without the need for active risk management.

crypto etfs charts illustration

How to invest in a digital asset index fund in under 10 minutes

Investing in a crypto index fund can be a quick and easy process, especially with platforms like Diamond Pigs. Here’s how you can get started in under 10 minutes:

  1. Register and Fill in Account Details: Begin by creating an account on the Diamond Pigs platform. You’ll need to provide basic information and verify your identity, similar to setting up any online financial account.
  2. Connect Your Crypto Exchange Wallet: Next, link your crypto exchange wallet to the Diamond Pigs platform using API keys. This allows the platform to manage your investments and automatically trade on your behalf.
  3. Select Your Investment Strategy: Finally, choose your preferred investment strategy, such as the Top 10 Crypto Index Strategy. Once selected, your portfolio will be managed according to the fund’s systematic approach.

With these simple steps, you can quickly gain exposure to a diversified portfolio of top-performing cryptocurrencies.

Comparing Crypto Assets Index Funds with Other Investment Options

Crypto index funds offer a unique form of diversification compared to traditional mutual funds. By tracking a selection of the top performing digital assets these funds provide exposure to a broad range of digital assets, minimizing the risks associated with single-coin investments. This is particularly beneficial for long-term investors who aim to focus on growth rather than daily trading decisions.

Unlike active crypto trading, which requires constant market monitoring and decision-making, crypto index funds offer a more passive investment approach. This allows investors to benefit from the overall upward trend of the cryptocurrency market without the need for active management. Additionally, compared to HODLing (holding onto a single cryptocurrency for a long period), crypto index funds are more adaptive to market shifts, providing a balanced and diversified portfolio.

Summary

In summary, cryptocurrency index funds offer a compelling way to gain diversified exposure to the digital asset market. They simplify the investment process, provide broad market coverage, and reduce the complexities of managing individual crypto assets. By tracking indices like the Nasdaq Crypto Index, these funds offer a structured and professional approach to investing in cryptocurrencies. For those looking to invest in the cryptocurrency market without the need for active management, crypto index funds present a viable and attractive option.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I invest in a crypto index fund quickly?

To invest in a crypto index fund quickly, register on a platform such as Diamond Pigs, Bitwise or Nasdaq Crypto Index US: link your crypto exchange wallet, and choose your desired investment strategy. This streamlined approach facilitates efficient investment in the cryptocurrency market.

What are core exchanges that support the index funds?

Funds may source data and execute trades through high‑volume exchange platforms such as Binance, Coinbase, Kraken and (in Europe) Bitvavo. For ETF‑style products, shares trade on regulated stock exchanges like the NYSE and Cboe BZX.

Gosia Surowiec
Customer Success

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