Exchange Traded Note

Definition ∞ An Exchange Traded Note is a type of unsecured debt security that tracks an underlying market index or asset and trades on major exchanges. Unlike Exchange Traded Funds, ETNs do not hold the underlying assets; instead, they are debt instruments issued by financial institutions. Their value is linked to the performance of a benchmark, offering investors exposure to markets without direct ownership of the assets. In the digital asset space, ETNs provide a regulated way to invest in cryptocurrencies.
Context ∞ The introduction and performance of cryptocurrency-backed Exchange Traded Notes are frequent topics in financial news, offering a regulated investment vehicle for institutional and retail investors. Debates center on the credit risk associated with the issuing institution versus the direct market risk of holding the underlying digital asset. Regulatory bodies continuously evaluate the suitability and investor protection aspects of these products as the digital asset market matures.