A Crypto ETN is a type of exchange-traded product designed to track the price of a specific cryptocurrency or a basket of cryptocurrencies.
Unlike ETFs, which typically hold underlying assets, an ETN is technically a debt instrument issued by a financial institution. Its value is linked to the performance of an underlying asset — in this case, a cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin or Ethereum.
When you invest in a Crypto ETN, you do not directly own the cryptocurrency itself. Instead, you hold a note issued by a provider that promises to replicate the performance of the referenced crypto asset, minus applicable fees.
Crypto ETNs are traded on stock exchanges, meaning they can be bought and sold during market hours, just like shares or ETFs.