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Kleinwort Hambros
UK-based private bank Kleinwort Hambros, has launched a new Luxembourg-listed, actively managed blockchain note that gives clients exposure to development of distributed ledger technology. 

The exchange-traded note will be available exclusively to existing and prospective clients. The note’s initial basket of stocks will include companies considered to benefit from the potential growth of blockchain, either through the sale of software services, or through the improvement in margins that the installation of blockchain technology may produce. 

Blockchain, most usually associated with crypto-currency blockchain, is a ledger technology that enables financial and other transactions to take place without them having to be validated by an independent third party. Advocates say the tech will revolutionise finance, legal services, handling of medical records, even voting in elections.

Kleinwort Hambros said the portfolio of stocks will initially comprise 20 names diversified across industries and countries, and will be drawn from sectors including technology, shipping, oil and gas, custody banking and industrials.

“We have seen increasing interest from clients in the area of blockchain and we are very excited to be able to cater to this demand with the launch of our first blockchain note,” John Birdwood, portfolio manager at Kleinwort Hambros, said.

Clients must invest at least £1,000 ($1,305) to get access to the note.