The VanEck Onchain Economy ETF, known as NODE, recently increased its crypto holdings after price dips without facing any margin calls. Unlike many crypto funds that use use and risk forced liquidations, NODE avoids borrowing, allowing it to buy the dip calmly during market pullbacks.
Strategy Behind NODE’s Moves
Since its debut in May 2025, NODE has focused on the so-called onchain economy, encompassing blockchain infrastructure, crypto mining, digital assets, and AI computing companies. The ETF holds between 59 and 64 positions, with the largest single stake being VanEck’s own Bitcoin ETF, HODL, making up roughly 10.5% of the portfolio.
Recently, NODE has increased investments in crypto mining and AI infrastructure firms like TeraWulf (WULF), Cipher Mining (CIFR), HUT 8 (HUT), and Applied Digital (APLD). The fund’s managers take advantage of market volatility by adding exposure during pullbacks instead of retreating, a rare approach in the crypto space.
Performance and Risk Management
April and May 2026 brought intra-month dips of about 5.3% and 8.3%, respectively. NODE used those corrections to buy more positions, avoiding the panic selling common in leveraged products. Thanks to its no-use policy, the fund didn’t face margin calls, enabling a measured response to volatility.
As of late July 2026, NODE’s year-to-date return stands around 12.4%, with April alone delivering a striking 24.8% gain following the dip-buying strategy. Over the past year, the fund’s net asset value fluctuated between $29.73 and $54.32 per share, reflecting both market swings and active management.
With roughly $65 million under management and a 0.67% expense ratio, NODE is carving out a niche for investors seeking a diversified crypto play without the risks of use. This approach contrasts with many crypto products that have collapsed under volatility, highlighting the value of steady hands in turbulent markets.
This content is for informational purposes and does not constitute financial advice.
