BlackRock’s Strategic Income Opportunities Portfolio has significantly increased its exposure to bitcoin, according to a new SEC filing. The mutual fund now holds 2,397,423 shares of the iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), valued at $155.8 million as of Sept. 30. The position represents a 14% rise from the 2,096,447 shares reported at the end of June, signaling growing confidence in bitcoin-linked products.

The portfolio, known for its flexible mandate, typically invests across government debt, corporate bonds, mortgages, emerging markets and cash-like assets. Its ability to add nontraditional instruments—such as ETFs—has allowed IBIT to sit alongside its fixed-income positions. The move highlights how large institutions are increasingly blending digital asset exposure into traditional investment strategies.

IBIT has remained in focus this week after Nasdaq ISE requested approval to raise the position limit for IBIT options to one million contracts. Fintel data also shows institutional ownership climbing to its highest level since launch, surpassing 400 million shares and reflecting steady month-over-month demand.