Bitwise Reports Mixed Performance Across Option Income ETFs — Bitwise Asset Management, Inc.

Event summary

Bitwise announced monthly distributions for six Option Income Strategy ETFs on February 26, 2026.
IGME and ICRC showed positive 1-month returns (5.19% and 2.42%, respectively), while others posted losses.
All funds reported negative 1-year returns, with IMST down -49.37% since inception.
Distribution rates ranged from 22.64% for IETH to 57.88% for ICRC.

The big picture

Bitwise's Option Income Strategy ETFs face the challenge of delivering consistent returns amid volatile crypto markets. The mixed performance highlights the tension between generating option premiums and managing downside risk from synthetic exposure to underlying assets. As regulatory scrutiny of digital assets intensifies, these funds' ability to maintain distribution rates while preserving capital will be key.

What we're watching

Income Strategy Viability: Whether Bitwise's covered call strategy can offset underlying asset volatility in current market conditions.
Regulatory Risks: The impact of evolving digital asset regulations on the performance and structure of these ETFs.
Investor Sentiment: How sustained negative returns may affect investor confidence in Bitwise's option income products.