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BlackRock Just Re-Classified Bitcoin: Not a ‘Risk-On’ Asset, a Global Scarcity Asset

By Isaiah Mccall

Last Updated: Mar 20, 2025

Fact checked

By Sam Cooling

Blacrock Bitcoin crypto bet doesn't make the market easier. Blackrock's Mitchnick says the BTC debate in this bull run misses the mark.

Bitcoin’s identity crisis rages on, and the new BlackRock Bitcoin crypto bet isn’t making things easier. Robert Mitchnick, BlackRock’s digital assets chief, says the Price Volume in 24h Price 7d debate in this bull run misses the mark.

He insists Bitcoin’s potential as a portfolio stabilizer, especially in a recession, is deeply misunderstood.

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BlackRock Bitcoin Bet: BTC as a Recession Catalyst

According to Mitchnick, Bitcoin could actually thrive during a recession, contrary to the belief it performs poorly during economic downturns. Speaking to Yahoo Finance, Mitchnick explained that fiscal spending, deficit accumulation, lower interest rates, and monetary stimulus—common during recessionary times—often work in Bitcoin’s favor.

“A recession would be a big catalyst for Bitcoin,” he said. “And it’s catalyzed to some extent over fears of general social disorder. Unfortunately, that’s something that could happen in a recession.”

He also clarified that Bitcoin’s scarcity and decentralized nature make it fundamentally different from traditional risk-on assets like stocks or bonds.

Growth of BlackRock Bitcoin ETFs and Institutional Interest

BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust broke records, amassing $10 billion faster than any ETF before it, contributing to the $100 billion now held in Bitcoin ETFs.

Mitchnick explains that for some of BlackRock’s most loyal clients, the slump isn’t cause for panic but a chance to buy in. He critiques a market still struggling to “calibrate” its understanding of Bitcoin, signaling untapped potential.

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Not everyone shares Mitchnick’s optimism. Coinbase analysts took a less bullish stance, emphasizing recent macroeconomic market’s economic headwinds.

“Fears of a dramatic US economic slowdown or even recession have caused sentiment to turn sharply,” they said in their March outlook.

DISCOVER: 9+ Best High-Risk, High-Reward Crypto to Buy in March 2025

Mislabeling Bitcoin as Risk-On

Misunderstood and mislabeled, Bitcoin has long been cast as a risky gamble. But BlackRock contends Bitcoin crypto is a scarce, decentralized store of value built for uncertain financial times. This misconception highlights a need for investor education, and BlackRock’s growing influence is helping rebrand Bitcoin as an asset with substance.

With Bitcoin ETFs booming, institutional adoption rising, and fiscal shifts on the way, Bitcoin could soon establish itself as a core portfolio heavyweight.

Why Is Crypto Down Today? Buy BTC Bull  Crypto Presale While it Does

BTC Bull Token ($BTCBULL)  is making waves in its first presale, pulling in $3.7 million at $0.002415 a pop.

Far from a gimmick, early investors are locking in perks like Bitcoin airdrops and hefty rewards. With Bitcoin’s 125% rally last year and predictions hitting $150,000 by 2025 bull run, $BTCBULL’s first token burn is setting the stage for serious momentum.

  Blacrock Bitcoin crypto bet doesn't make the market easier. Blackrock's Mitchnick says the BTC debate in this bull run misses the mark.
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EXPLORE: Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino Hopes For Net Positive From US Elections, Says Bitcoin Strategic Reserve Is A Great Idea: 99Bitcoins Exclusive

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Key Takeaways

  • Bitcoin’s identity crisis rages on, and the new BlackRock Bitcoin crypto bet isn’t making things easier. Robert Mitchnick, BlackRock’s digital assets chief, says the BTC debate misses the mark.
  • He clarified that Bitcoin’s scarcity and decentralized nature make it fundamentally different from traditional risk-on assets like stocks or bonds.
  • For now, the debate about cryptocurrency’s place in America’s financial future is just beginning in this bull run.

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Isaiah Mccall
Isaiah Mccall
Crypto Analyst

Isaiah McCall is an ultramarathon runner and journalist for 99Bitcoins. He started at USAToday in 2019 and now has a Medium blog following of 30k+ and millions of views. Follow him at @AfroReporter Read More

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