Government Oversight and Institutional Influence: Exploring the Dynamics of Individual Adoption of Spot Bitcoin ETPs

Abstract

Spot Bitcoin Exchange Traded Products (ETPs) are financial instruments enabling Bitcoin to be traded on traditional brokerage platforms, reducing the risks associated with direct Bitcoin exposure while addressing fraud and market manipulation concerns. This study examines the adoption of Spot Bitcoin ETPs, emphasizing the roles of financial and digital literacy, market dynamics, and regulatory frameworks in influencing individual investor behavior. Based on a survey of 428 U.S. respondents, financial literacy and early adopter traits were found to significantly enhance adoption likelihood (β = 0.458, p < 0.001). Government factors, such as compliance guidelines and tax policies, improved investor confidence and adoption rates (β = 0.409, p < 0.001). Market factors, including volatility and sentiment, played a notable yet secondary role (β = 0.34, p < 0.001). Institutional investment mediated the effects of regulatory and market dynamics on individual adoption, legitimizing Spot Bitcoin ETPs and fostering trust (β = 0.298, p < 0.001). The findings emphasize the need for clear regulations, robust disclosure requirements, and investor education to enhance adoption. Policymakers should focus on regulatory transparency to build investor confidence, while financial institutions can advance adoption by promoting financial and digital literacy. This study contributes to understanding how individual, market, and regulatory factors collectively drive the integration of regulated cryptocurrency products into mainstream finance.