The Inclusion of Bitcoin and Other Cryptocurrencies in Investors’ Portfolios

Abstract

Cryptocurrencies have become an attractive asset class for all types of investors. A relevant question is whether their inclusion in portfolios improves their risk-return output. In this chapter, we conduct an empirical study of the effect of the inclusion of Bitcoin and Ethereum in the portfolio of a European investor. Additionally, we analyze the results of previous studies on this question under other assumptions. The empirical data are overwhelming regarding the attractiveness of Bitcoin and by extension other cryptocurrencies as an asset class. The important question is whether this appeal is temporary and will eventually disappear so investors do not have to worry about this new asset class. In the chapter we discuss this issue.