Bitwise Launches Dogecoin ETF on the NYSE With Fee Incentives and Rising Mainstream Interest

Dogecoin’s rise from a playful internet coin to a regulated exchange-traded product on one of the world’s largest stock exchanges marks an important moment for digital assets. Bitwise, one of the largest crypto asset managers, has officially launched a Dogecoin ETF (trading under the symbol BWOW on the New York Stock Exchange) gives people a simple way to invest in Dogecoin through a regular stock market product. Instead of buying DOGE directly from a crypto exchange, investors can now get exposure to it just by purchasing this ETF.

Bitwise also announced its fees, the fund will normally charge a 0.34% management fee, but for the first $500 million invested, the fee will be 0%, making it cheaper for early investors.

A New Chapter for Dogecoin: From Meme to Mainstream

When Dogecoin first appeared more than a decade ago, it was created as a light-hearted alternative to Bitcoin. Nobody expected it to grow into one of the world’s most recognizable cryptocurrencies. Its popularity was fueled by a global online community, famous public figures, and years of steady trading activity. Today, Dogecoin is no longer seen as just a joke. It has deep liquidity, millions of holders, and trading volumes that often exceed major altcoins. This long-term performance is a big reason why Bitwise felt confident enough to build an ETF around it.

Hunter Horsley, Bitwise’s CEO, stated  “Crypto is serious technology and I believe it has profound potential to improve the world. It’s also an internet community. For over 12 years, DOGE has endured as a famous part of that culture. Today, we’re delighted to launch $BWOW. Not for everyone, but you can now buy DOGE in a brokerage account.”

Why Bitwise Chose to Launch a Dogecoin ETF

Bitwise’s decision reflects the changing shape of the crypto investment landscape. Until now, most U.S. crypto ETFs have focused on Bitcoin and Ethereum. These are considered the “blue-chip” choices of the digital asset world and typically attract institutional interest.

Introducing a Dogecoin ETF signals that investor appetite is expanding. People want exposure to assets they understand and feel comfortable with, and Dogecoin has an unusually strong level of cultural awareness. Even those who know very little about crypto have likely heard of DOGE. This familiarity reduces hesitation and makes it easier for new investors to consider adding it to their portfolios.

Another key factor is Dogecoin’s market liquidity. Many meme tokens rise quickly and disappear just as fast, but Dogecoin has remained active across multiple market cycles. That consistency makes it suitable for an ETF structure, where liquidity and reliable pricing are essential.

The company warned that this new fund is not registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, which means it comes with higher risk than traditional investment products. They also highlighted that Dogecoin has been the biggest “memecoin” for many years, supported by its large market value, heavy trading on major exchanges, and its long history since launching in 2013.

Bitwise explained that the BWOW ETF is not the same as buying Dogecoin directly, but supporters believe that having a regulated option could help more people feel comfortable investing in crypto. Even though Dogecoin can be very volatile, fans say that exchange-traded products like this can attract new investors and help push crypto further into the mainstream.

Dogecoin’s move into the world of traditional finance shows how far crypto has come. What started as an internet meme is now gaining recognition on one of the biggest stock exchanges, giving investors a safer and easier way to get involved. While the BWOW ETF still carries risks, its launch proves that digital assets are steadily stepping into the mainstream.

Do you think regulated products like the Dogecoin ETF will help more people feel confident about investing in crypto, or will volatility still keep new investors away?