The quest for crypto exchange-traded funds (ETFs) remains at the forefront of industry discussions as the cryptocurrency market continues to capture the attention of investors and institutions alike. 

Several major players, including BlackRock and Fidelity, have eagerly awaited a ruling from the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regarding their proposed spot bitcoin funds. 

However, the regulator announced last week that it required more time to evaluate seven such proposals, leaving the industry in suspense.

Spot Bitcoin ETFs In Regulatory Limbo

Despite the anticipation surrounding spot Bitcoin ETFs, the SEC’s decision to delay its ruling has created uncertainty. While industry experts speculate on the potential approval of these funds, other crypto investment products appear poised to enter the market more swiftly.

The SEC is currently reviewing various spot Bitcoin ETF proposals, making it difficult to predict when, or if, these products will receive the green light.

The cryptocurrency community could witness the launch of the first Ether futures ETF as early as next month. This development comes exactly two years after the introduction of the first bitcoin futures ETFs. 

According to a report, the SEC has shown a willingness to publicly consider this type of fund. Additionally, insiders suggest that the regulatory body is unlikely to obstruct such products, based on information from sources familiar with the matter.

Ether Strategy ETFs On The Crosshair

Volatility Shares, a prominent player in the crypto space, filed for a fund that would hold ether futures contracts in late July. Following suit, Bitwise, Grayscale, and ProShares also submitted similar proposals. Notably, Volatility Shares has announced plans to launch its Ether Strategy ETF (ETHU) on October 12, 2023, adding to the growing anticipation surrounding crypto ETFs.

Meanwhile, 21Shares and Ark Invest are anxiously awaiting the SEC’s decision on their spot bitcoin ETF proposal, as well as their planned funds that would invest in ether futures. These firms also serve as sub-advisers for related products that seem poised to launch without significant regulatory hurdles, leveraging elements from already approved funds.

Future Regulatory Landscape For Crypto

Although the SEC could potentially approve Bitcoin ETFs later this year, there is also speculation that the agency may decide to appeal the recent Grayscale court decision. Such an appeal would likely delay potential approvals until 2024, affording the SEC ample time to thoroughly assess all the pending applications. 

In this dynamic environment, the crypto community continues to watch and wait for further regulatory developments that could shape the future of crypto investment products.

Featured image from Independent.ie