Commodity Trust Shares

Definition ∞ Commodity trust shares are investment vehicles providing investors exposure to physical commodities without direct ownership. These shares represent beneficial ownership interests in a trust that holds a specific commodity, such as gold or oil. They trade on traditional stock exchanges, offering liquidity and accessibility. In the digital asset sphere, this structure can apply to trusts holding cryptocurrencies.
Context ∞ The discussion surrounding commodity trust shares in crypto frequently centers on Bitcoin spot ETFs, which are structured as trusts holding actual Bitcoin. These products aim to offer regulated investment access to institutional and retail investors. Regulatory approval processes for such trusts have been a significant point of contention and market interest. Their acceptance signals a maturing market infrastructure for digital assets.