Osprey Funds has reportedly laid off most of its staff since the summer of 2022, underscoring the ongoing operational challenges posed by crypto’s enduring bear market.
It was reported that Osprey Funds is currently operating with fewer than 10 employees after laying off 15 staff members since the summer. CEO Greg Kling told the publication that the layoffs were consistent with the market downturn and that Osprey was not at risk of closing operations.
Osprey offers accredited investors access to crypto-focused investment products, including an over-the-counter Bitcoin trust that can be purchased inside brokerage accounts.
Institutional appetite for crypto products has waned significantly over the past year, reflecting subdued demand for riskier assets in the wake of tightening liquidity conditions worldwide. 2022 was the worst year in over a decade for global equities and bonds, so it wasn’t just crypto that was affected.
Nevertheless, there are some positive signs that institutional investors are warming to crypto again. A Coinbase-sponsored survey between Sep. 21 and Oct. 27 found that 62% of institutional investors had increased their exposure to digital assets over the past 12 months.
