The Top 5 Bitcoin ETFs With Proven Dividend Track Records – 2025
Want to earn regular income from Bitcoin ETFs? You’re definitely not the only one.
Bitcoin doesn’t pay dividends, but several Bitcoin ETFs now offer regular payouts to investors. These smart funds generate income from their Bitcoin holdings through covered calls and yield optimization strategies.
Table of Contents
My deep dive into Bitcoin ETFs revealed 5 top performers that pay dividends consistently. Let’s get into their dividend history, yields, and the ways they create income streams. This piece will show you how these Bitcoin ETFs can boost your portfolio with growth opportunities and steady income. It’s valuable information whether you’re passionate about crypto or just focused on generating regular returns.
ProShares Bitcoin Strategy ETF (BITO)
Image Source: ProShares
Let’s get into ProShares Bitcoin Strategy ETF (BITO), which stands as the first and largest U.S. bitcoin-linked ETF1.
BITO Fund Overview and Strategy
BITO is a 2-year old fund that launched on October 18, 2021. The fund takes a different path to Bitcoin investment. Rather than holding Bitcoin directly, it puts money into Bitcoin futures contracts23. The fund charges a 0.95% expense ratio1.
Here’s what makes up BITO’s portfolio:
- 96.12% CME Bitcoin Futures
- 4.00% S&P CME Bitcoin Futures Daily Roll Index Swap1
BITO Dividend History and Yield Analysis
So, BITO has built quite a dividend track record. Here’s what the fund pays out:
- Dividend Yield: 60.12%
- Annual Dividend: $14.88 per share
- Payment Frequency: Monthly24
Here are BITO’s recent dividend payments:
Month | Dividend Amount |
---|---|
May 2025 | $1.25 |
Apr 2025 | $1.20 |
Mar 2025 | $1.18 |
Feb 2025 | $1.22 |
The fund’s dividend growth stands out with a 360.45% jump in the last year24.
BITO Performance Metrics and Risk Assessment
BITO has posted these returns:
- YTD Return: 4.21%
- 1-Year Return: 100.37%
- 3-Year Return: 22.39%25
Notwithstanding that, you should know about these risks:
- Market Volatility: Bitcoin futures can swing wildly in price1.
- Tracking Difference: The fund might not match Bitcoin’s spot price exactly23.
- Futures Contract Risk: Rolling futures contracts can change how well the fund tracks Bitcoin’s price1.
BITO beats its category average with a 22.39% 3-year return compared to 9.23%25. On top of that, it pays monthly distributions, which sets it apart from typical Bitcoin investments that don’t give regular income.
[BITO Performance Chart] [Note: Chart would show BITO’s price performance and dividend history]
Valkyrie Bitcoin Strategy ETF (BTF)
Image Source: CoinShares
Let’s explore BTF’s unique approach with its dual cryptocurrency strategy.
BTF Investment Approach
We focused on BTF as an actively managed ETF that combines Bitcoin and Ether futures contracts in its portfolio4. The fund maintains a balanced portfolio with:
- U.S. Treasury Bills (49.35% of net assets)5
- First American Treasury Obligations (9.12% of net assets)5
- Bitcoin and Ether futures contracts (remaining portion)
BTF Distribution Track Record
BTF’s dividend program is 2 years old. The fund delivers:
- Annual dividend yield: 50.23%6
- Quarterly payment schedule6
- Latest dividend payment: $7.89 per share7
BTF’s recent dividend history shows:
Payment Date | Dividend Amount |
---|---|
Mar 2025 | $7.89 |
Dec 2024 | $7.43 |
Sep 2024 | $0.12 |
Jun 2024 | $0.12 |
BTF Risk-Return Profile
The fund showed strong performance metrics:
- YTD Return: 3.75%8
- 1-Year Return: 63.28%8
- 3-Year Return: 14.29%8
BTF’s performance against its category reveals:
Time Period | BTF | Category Average |
---|---|---|
YTD | 3.75% | 73.40% |
1-Year | 63.28% | 107.96% |
3-Year | 14.29% | 9.23% |
Risk factors need attention:
- The fund’s value can experience significant volatility
- Performance may differ from direct cryptocurrency investments
- Futures contract positions have limits of 4,000 contracts for Bitcoin and 8,000 contracts for Ether9
The fund operates as a regulated investment vehicle that provides a familiar framework for traditional investors who seek cryptocurrency exposure. BTF’s futures-based strategy allows exposure to both leading cryptocurrencies while generating substantial dividend income.
Simplify Bitcoin Strategy PLUS Income ETF (MAXI)
Image Source: Simplify Asset Management
Let me explore MAXI’s distinctive approach that combines Bitcoin exposure with active income generation. This innovative ETF uses a sophisticated three-pronged strategy that makes it stand out in the cryptocurrency investment world.
MAXI Fund Structure and Strategy
MAXI aims to achieve both capital gains and income through a well-laid-out approach2. The fund’s core strategy consists of:
- Bitcoin Futures Strategy: Targets 100% exposure via front-month CME futures contracts2
- Income Generation: Sells short-dated put/call spreads on liquid global equity indices2
- Cash Management: Invests excess capital in short-dated treasuries2
MAXI stands out because of its sophisticated option-writing algorithm that dynamically selects option types, underliers, and strikes to generate attractive risk-adjusted returns2.
MAXI Dividend Consistency Analysis
The fund has built a strong dividend distribution framework with these characteristics:
Metric | Value |
---|---|
Dividend Yield | 38.45%10 |
Distribution Frequency | Monthly |
Annual Distribution | $9.22 per share |
Portfolio Turnover | 0%10 |
Total Assets | $49.00 Million10 |
Recent performance metrics show MAXI’s strong results:
MAXI Portfolio Integration Benefits
Here are several compelling reasons why you should think over MAXI for your portfolio:
- Capital Efficiency: The fund offers a simplified way to get Bitcoin exposure while generating income2. This dual-purpose approach helps investors who want both growth potential and regular cash flow.
- Risk Management: The fund uses a second level of risk controls to reduce tail risks associated with option selling2. This feature matters a lot because cryptocurrency markets can be volatile.
- Operational Simplicity: The ETF structure offers:
- Monthly distributions
- No K-1 tax forms2
- Transparent pricing
- High liquidity
The fund’s portfolio mainly focuses on income-producing securities12. This makes it an interesting choice for investors who want regular income from their cryptocurrency exposure. The fund’s active management style allows quick strategy adjustments based on market conditions.
MAXI gets its Bitcoin exposure through futures contracts instead of direct cryptocurrency holdings13. This approach gives regulated exposure to Bitcoin and might reduce some custody and security risks that come with direct cryptocurrency ownership.
YieldMax Bitcoin Option Income Strategy ETF (YBIT)
Image Source: YieldMax ETFs
YBIT has become one of the most innovative income-generating Bitcoin ETFs since its launch. The fund’s sophisticated options strategy sets it apart.
YBIT Covered Call Strategy
The sort of thing i love about YBIT is how it uses a synthetic covered call strategy on U.S.-listed Bitcoin ETPs3. The fund’s strategy includes:
- Deep in-the-money call options for Bitcoin exposure
- At-the-money put options that generate additional income
- Strategic call writing with 0-15% strike price premium14
ZEGA Financial manages this complex options framework actively and encourages engagement to maximize current income and Bitcoin exposure3.
YBIT Distribution History
YBIT’s distribution record has been remarkable without doubt. The fund now offers:
Metric | Value |
---|---|
Dividend Yield | 59.12% |
Annual Distribution | $7.98 per share |
Payment Frequency | Monthly |
Last Ex-Dividend Date | May 27, 202515 |
Monthly distributions have shown consistent strength lately:
- May 2025: 120.45% distribution rate
- April 2025: 118.32% distribution rate
- March 2025: 115.67% distribution rate
- February 2025: 110.23% distribution rate15
YBIT Risk Management Approach
Investors should know about these most important risk factors:
- Bitcoin Investment Risk: Bitcoin exposure brings inherent volatility and emerging asset class risks3.
- Digital Asset Market Risk: Trading platforms for digital assets are:
- Relatively new and largely unregulated
- More vulnerable to fraud and technical failures
- Subject to significant price volatility3
- Options Strategy Risk: These factors affect the fund’s performance:
- Path dependency of call writing
- Counterparty risk in options contracts
- Limited participation in upside potential3
The fund’s main goal focuses on current income, though monthly distributions aren’t guaranteed16. The Distribution Rate shows a single distribution and differs from total return3.
YBIT has showed these performance metrics since it started:
YBIT balances Bitcoin exposure with income generation uniquely. The synthetic covered call strategy gives investors a well-laid-out way to earn regular income from the cryptocurrency market, even though it’s complex.
Roundhill Bitcoin Covered Call Strategy ETF (YBTC)
Image Source: Roundhill Investments
Let me highlight YBTC’s groundbreaking position as the first U.S.-listed bitcoin covered call ETF18 in our final ETF analysis.
YBTC Investment Philosophy
YBTC uses a unique synthetic covered call strategy that generates weekly income. The fund’s core philosophy rests on two main goals:
- Income Generation: Targets consistent weekly distributions through options premiums
- Bitcoin Exposure: Provides upside potential subject to a weekly cap18
The fund follows a well-laid-out investment approach. It puts 80% of its net assets into Bitcoin ETF options19. This allocation shows the fund’s steadfast dedication to keeping substantial market exposure.
YBTC Yield Generation Process
YBTC’s yield generation works through a sophisticated three-tier strategy:
- Synthetic Long Position
- Purchases call options
- Sells put options
- Creates upside and downside participation in Bitcoin ETF price returns20
- Income Generation
- Sells out-of-the-money call options
- Weekly options expiration cycle
- Targets regular premium collection18
Distribution Metrics | Value |
---|---|
Dividend Yield | 45.32% |
30-Day SEC Yield | 3.50% |
Distribution Frequency | Weekly |
Expense Ratio | 0.95% |
[YBTC Distribution Strategy] [Chart showing weekly distribution pattern]
YBTC Performance Analysis
The fund has showed impressive performance metrics:
Recent Weekly Distributions:
Week | Distribution Amount |
---|---|
May 29, 2025 | $0.48 |
May 22, 2025 | $0.45 |
May 15, 2025 | $0.46 |
May 8, 2025 | $0.44 |
Here are some key risks to think over:
- Market Risk Factors:
- Bitcoin price volatility effect
- Options market conditions
- Strike price limitations18
- Distribution Considerations:
- May include return of capital
- Distribution rates change with market conditions
- No guarantee of weekly payments21
YBTC uses sophisticated options management in the volatile cryptocurrency space through active management21. The weekly distribution schedule needs careful monitoring of:
- Underlying asset performance
- Options market conditions
- Assignment risk management21
The fund’s strategy turns potential Bitcoin price appreciation into regular income streams18. Investors get a more conservative way to gain Bitcoin exposure while keeping steady income flowing.
Comparison Table
Bitcoin ETF Comparison Table
ETF Name | Dividend Yield | Distribution Frequency | Annual Distribution | YTD Return | Investment Strategy | Expense Ratio |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ProShares Bitcoin Strategy ETF (BITO) | 58.46% | Monthly | $14.03/share | 4.21% | Bitcoin futures contracts (96.12% CME Bitcoin Futures) | 0.95% |
Valkyrie Bitcoin Strategy ETF (BTF) | 49.55% | Quarterly | $7.76/share | 3.75% | Mixed Bitcoin/Ether futures with Treasury Bills | Not mentioned |
Simplify Bitcoin Strategy PLUS Income ETF (MAXI) | 36.20% | Monthly | Not mentioned | 110.5% | Bitcoin futures with options writing on global equity indices | Not mentioned |
YieldMax Bitcoin Option Income Strategy ETF (YBIT) | 57.45% | Monthly | $7.42/share | 3.40% | Synthetic covered call strategy on Bitcoin ETPs | Not mentioned |
Roundhill Bitcoin Covered Call Strategy ETF (YBTC) | 43.16% | Weekly | $22.15/share | Not mentioned | Synthetic covered call strategy (80% Bitcoin ETF options) | 0.95% |
Conclusion
The cryptocurrency investment landscape now features five Bitcoin ETFs that generate impressive dividend income through different strategies. BITO leads with a 60.12% yield from futures contracts, appealing to those seeking high income. BTF offers exposure to both Bitcoin and Ether markets with a 50.23% yield. MAXI combines Bitcoin futures with options strategies for a 38.45% yield and strong capital appreciation. YBIT provides a 59.22% yield through a synthetic covered call approach, ideal for monthly income seekers. YBTC, with a 45.32% yield and weekly distributions, suits investors prioritizing frequent payouts.
Each ETF carries risks, including Bitcoin’s price volatility, tracking differences, and capped upside from options strategies. Investors should assess their risk tolerance and income goals before investing. As cryptocurrency markets evolve, these ETFs are poised to innovate further, offering diverse income-generating opportunities.
FAQs
Q1. Do Bitcoin ETFs offer dividend payments? Yes, several Bitcoin ETFs generate income through strategies like covered calls and futures contracts, distributing dividends despite Bitcoin itself not paying dividends.
Q2. Which Bitcoin ETF has the highest dividend yield? ProShares Bitcoin Strategy ETF (BITO) offers the highest yield at 60.12%, with monthly distributions and an annual dividend of $14.88 per share.
Q3. How do Bitcoin ETFs generate income for dividends? They employ strategies such as Bitcoin futures, covered calls, and options writing on equity indices to generate income, which is then paid out as dividends.
Q4. Are Bitcoin ETF dividends paid monthly? Payment frequency varies: BITO, MAXI, and YBIT pay monthly, BTF pays quarterly, and YBTC pays weekly.
Q5. What are the risks associated with dividend-paying Bitcoin ETFs? Risks include Bitcoin’s volatility, tracking errors, potential capped gains from options, and fluctuating dividend rates based on market conditions.
References
- ProShares Bitcoin Strategy ETF
- MAXI Fact Sheet 1Q23
- YieldMax Bitcoin Option Income ETF
- Valkyrie Bitcoin Strategy ETF
- US News: BTF
- BTF Dividend Analysis
- TipRanks: BTF Dividends
- Yahoo Finance: BTF Performance
- Dividend.com: BTF
- AAII: MAXI
- Dividend.com: MAXI
- US News: MAXI
- MAXI Fact Sheet 1Q24
- Dividend.com: YBIT
- YBIT Dividend Analysis
- YieldMax FAQs
- Yahoo Finance: YBIT
- Roundhill Bitcoin Covered Call ETF
- US News: YBTC
- Dividend.com: YBTC
- YBTC Dividend Analysis
- StockTitan: YBTC Distributions
- ProShares Bitcoin Highlights
- BITO Dividend Analysis
- Yahoo Finance: BITO