The fight to launch a Bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF) has faced numerous obstacles along the way, but its eventual approval seems almost inevitable. This long-awaited event would undoubtedly provide a much-needed boost to the token market.
While the SEC declined to comment on this matter, the benefits of a spot Bitcoin ETF for the token market cannot be overlooked. It would offer financial advisors a convenient avenue for holding Bitcoin through a traditional finance firm, eliminating the need to navigate separate accounts with a crypto brokerage. Furthermore, an ETF would send a signal to institutional investors that Bitcoin is here to stay for the long haul, potentially increasing their likelihood of allocating funds to it.
In recent weeks, the SEC has received a fresh wave of applications for a Bitcoin ETF. BlackRock, a prominent financial institution, filed an application in mid-June, stating that Nasdaq and Coinbase had entered into a surveillance agreement. This directly addresses one of the SEC’s main concerns that had previously led to rejections. Following BlackRock’s lead, other firms such as Invesco, WisdomTree, and Fidelity also applied for an ETF, many of which had faced rejection in the past.
The future of Bitcoin and the token market is on the cusp of a significant development. With the potential approval of a Bitcoin ETF, not only will financial advisors find it easier to engage with Bitcoin, but institutional investors may perceive it as a reliable investment option deserving of their attention.
Bitcoin ETF Approval Appears Likely
Bitcoin experienced a significant surge in value following BlackRock’s application for a Bitcoin ETF. Investors are optimistic about the firm’s chances of approval, considering that it has only faced rejection once out of a staggering 576 applications.
However, the process of obtaining approval for an ETF could be lengthy, lasting several months. While the SEC has until August to respond to the recent batch of applications, they can extend this deadline until December if necessary. Some applications, including BlackRock’s, may not receive a final response until March of the following year.
Meanwhile, in a separate legal battle, the SEC is contesting the Grayscale Bitcoin Trust’s attempt to convert into an ETF. A decision regarding this matter is anticipated by the autumn. Nevertheless, even if Grayscale emerges victorious, the agency could still reject the application on other grounds.
Despite potential delays, analysts increasingly believe that the approval of a spot Bitcoin ETF is highly likely.