iShares Trust Price & Performance (IBIC)

The global exchange-traded funds (ETF) sector reached a new milestone with $15.50 trillion in assets by February's end. February saw significant inflows totaling $61.67 billion, largely driven by the SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust, which attracted $8.67 billion in new investments. Equity ETFs remained the preferred choice for investors.1

The iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) experienced a notable price jump, opening at $52.97 after closing at $47.90 the previous session. With a trading volume exceeding 35 million shares, the fund highlights increased investor interest. This ETF, launched in 2024, aims to track Bitcoin's spot price.2

Defensive ETFs are drawing attention as market sentiment indicators like the Fear & Greed Index show "Extreme Fear," and the VIX rises 20%. With economic concerns mounting, these funds offer investors a strategy to hedge against potential downturns. Berkshire Hathaway's record cash reserves further underscore cautious market sentiment.3