Several major investment firms have refiled their applications for spot bitcoin ETFs with the SEC, naming Coinbase as their exchange partner.
Fidelity, WisdomTree, VanEck, and Invesco/Galaxy have all submitted applications. A spot bitcoin ETF would allow investors to get exposure to BTC without holding the token.
ETFs allow investors to gain exposure to bitcoin, the world’s number one cryptocurrency, without holding the digital asset.
While ARK is yet to refile its application, BlackRock is putting preparations in top gear to file its bitcoin ETF. The re-filings from Fidelity, WisdomTree, VanEck, and Invesco/Galaxy demonstrate the determination of these finance giants toward establishing a Bitcoin ETF in the United States, despite the regulatory uncertainties surrounding crypto in the country.
While previous bitcoin ETF proposals have been rejected, the growing interest from established financial institutions could potentially increase the chances of approval.
Whether ARK will follow suit and re-file their bitcoin ETF applications remains to be seen. Their participation could significantly impact the cryptocurrency market’s trajectory and further validate a crypto ETF’s potential.
SEC is standing its ground
The SEC has been firm regarding bitcoin ETFs, emphasizing the need for robust structures that minimize the risks of fraud and manipulation. Over the years, the regulator has rejected countless spot bitcoin ETF applications, citing concerns about the susceptibility of the underlying market to manipulation.
In response to recent filings, the SEC deemed them “inadequate” and called for additional information from the exchanges involved, namely Nasdaq and Cboe Global Markets. The agency remains unconvinced that a spot bitcoin ETF can be structured in a manner that aligns with its standards for investor protection.
The recent rejection of bitcoin ETF applications of crypto market participants by the SEC is indeed a setback for the cryptocurrency industry, particularly for investors eagerly awaiting approval.
However, given the SEC’s comments, there is a glimmer of hope, as the regulator has always made it clear that it is willing to entertain future applications if the concerns surrounding fraud and manipulation can be effectively addressed. This presents an opportunity for the industry to regroup, address the SEC’s concerns head-on, and potentially pave the way for the approval of a spot bitcoin ETF.
