“Crypto is currently regarded as a distinct type of technology by entrepreneurs, funding sources, and developers. By creating a separate fund, AH hopes [to put itself in a better position] within this community that would be the case by continuing to invest through its general IT funds.”

Traditional Funds and Crypto

The University of Michigan’s investment comes amidst growing speculation about institutional investments in the cryptocurrency space. Earlier this week, two Virginia pension funds invested undisclosed sums into Morgan Creek Digital’s $40 million venture fund. The same fund also attracted investment from an insurance company, a university endowment fund, and a private foundation, Anthony Pompliano, the founder of Morgan Creek Digital, confirmed.

Nevertheless, the entire crypto market remains in what is confirmed to be its most extended bear phase. In 2018, the industry lost nearly 1/3rd of its valuation owing to the death of a majority of ICO startups. Universities like Yale, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard invested in crypto funds even when market sentiments’ were weak.

“There’s a belief in the institutional world that if the industry is around for a long time, it will be [precious],’’ Pompliano told Bloomberg. “The smart money is not distracted by price but looks at the long-term trends, and believes they’re betting on innovation as a great way to deliver risk-mitigated returns.’’

Validating Bulls

Many believe that universities were principally investing in crypto assets via independent funds when the market reached its new lows. For instance, the university endowments invested in crypto funds when analysts predicted that bitcoin would bottom-out at $6,000. Chris Dixon, the general partner at Andreessen Horowitz, said that it was utilizing their clients’ capital to invest in crypto assets despite weak market conditions.

“If there is another ‘crypto winter,’ we’ll keep investing aggressively,” he stated.

The University of Michigan’s undisclosed investment also comes at a time when the crypto market is hinting to bottom-out. According to CoinMarketCap.com, the market has added $35 billion worth of capital since its December low at $100 billion.

Psychologically, significant endowments/funds gaining stakes in crypto ventures prompt retailers to stay bullish about the industry. With a recovery already in process, the public university’s announcement could strengthen the buying sentiment in the crypto market.