Jim Cramer, the outspoken host of CNBC’s Mad Money, has caused a stir in the financial sector by endorsing Bitcoin (BTC) over MicroStrategy stock (MSTR). This recommendation follows despite MSTR’s notable year-to-date performance of 85%, compared to Bitcoin’s 125% gain.

Cramer’s endorsement, however, is met with a dose of skepticism. The financial guru is known for his sometimes-inaccurate predictions, with some even claiming his recommendations have the opposite effect – a phenomenon known as the “Inverse Cramer” theory.

MicroStrategy Doubles Down On Bitcoin

While Cramer throws shade at MicroStrategy, the company remains a staunch Bitcoin advocate. CEO Michael Saylor is a vocal “Bitcoin Maxi,” holding a significant personal stake in the cryptocurrency and spearheading the company’s hefty BTC acquisitions. This unwavering commitment stands in stark contrast to Cramer’s sudden shift.

Jim Cramer on Bitcoin: If you want bitcoin, don’t buy $MSTR MicroStrategy. Buy bitcoin$COIN $HOOD $BTC $ETH $DOGE $MARA $CLSK $BITF $RIOT https://t.co/M1D6qKVKLs

— Hardik Shah (@AIStockSavvy) May 13, 2024

Bitcoin ETF Outflows Cast A Shadow

Cramer’s advice also coincides with a period of uncertainty for Bitcoin ETFs. Grayscale, the largest Bitcoin ETF management company, has seen a recent exodus of investors due to fees associated with their product. Additionally, newly launched Bitcoin ETFs in Hong Kong have experienced more redemptions than deposits for several days, indicating a cautious investor sentiment.

Sell Pressure Dampens Bitcoin’s Momentum

Adding fuel to the fire, the Bitcoin market itself is facing headwinds. A recent price drop below $62,000 is accompanied by substantial sell pressure on spot markets, raising concerns about a potential downward trend.

Is The ‘Inverse Cramer’ Curse Upon Us?

With Cramer’s past record and the “Inverse Cramer” theory swirling, some investors might be hesitant to follow his current Bitcoin recommendation. If history repeats itself, his endorsement could unintentionally trigger a sell-off.

Bitcoin price up in the last 24 hours. Source: Coingecko

Cramer’s Comments: A Double-Edged Sword For Crypto Awareness

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his call, Cramer’s foray into the Bitcoin conversation has a silver lining. Discussions about cryptocurrency by prominent figures like Cramer can raise public awareness about blockchain technology, potentially attracting new investors to the digital asset space.

The Verdict: A Gamble In A Murky Market

Cramer’s sudden shift in stance towards Bitcoin leaves investors in a quandary. While Bitcoin offers higher potential returns than MicroStrategy stock, recent market trends and Cramer’s own track record suggest a degree of risk. Ultimately, the decision to invest in Bitcoin directly or through MicroStrategy remains a gamble in a currently murky market.

Featured image from Pexels, chart from TradingView