A viral rumor is spreading that a Hong Kong-based shell company has invested hundreds of millions in Bitcoin through BlackRock’s IBIT ETF. Some posts claim this was a secret move by Beijing to bypass China’s crypto ban. However, closer inspection shows the story is misleading. The $436 million investment was actually made by Abu Dhabi’s Mubadala, not any Chinese entity.

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A mysterious Hong Kong based shell company has gone 100% into BlackRock’s IBIT, quietly building up $436M in Bitcoin exposure.

This is Beijing’s stealth move to acquire BTC without violating the mainland crypto ban! pic.twitter.com/hKRpxKVaQw

— That Martini Guy ? (@MartiniGuyYT) February 18, 2026

Hong Kong Firms Increasing ETF Exposure

Although the rumor linking Beijing to IBIT is false, it reflects a real trend among Hong Kong companies. Firms such as Avenir Group have increased their Bitcoin exposure through IBIT. By March 2025, Avenir Group’s holdings in IBIT reached $688 million.

The country’s pro-crypto environment makes it easier for companies to access U.S.-based ETFs. This is in contrast to mainland China, where crypto remains heavily restricted. As a result, Hong Kong continues to be a hub for investors seeking regulated Bitcoin exposure without violating local rules.

Hong Kong Rumors Stir Market Sentiment

The viral story about a secret Beijing investment has caused excitement among traders, even though it is not true. Many retail investors monitoring social media may interpret the claim as a bullish signal. This can temporarily boost ETF inflows, particularly in Hong Kong, where investors are watching global crypto trends closely.

However, analysts caution that such rumors exaggerate the situation. While ETF inflows in Hong Kong and elsewhere are real, they are driven by private investment strategies rather than government directives. Investors should focus on verified SEC filings and official disclosures rather than social media claims.

Understanding the Bigger Picture

The IBIT ETF continues to attract investors worldwide seeking regulated Bitcoin exposure. Abu Dhabi’s purchase shows how sovereign wealth funds diversify into crypto, while Hong Kong firms take advantage of regulatory freedom.

The viral story highlights how quickly misinformation can spread in crypto communities. While it creates short-term excitement, careful analysis shows that sovereign Bitcoin adoption from China remains unproven. For investors everywhere, verified institutional data and long-term trends remain the best guide for decision-making.

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