Jamal Al-Farouq In a recent development, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has introduced a fresh hurdle for the much-anticipated spot bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF) applications. The regulatory body has solicited additional feedback from the public regarding the proposal, a move that is expected to prolong the decision-making process for these high-profile applications.
SEC’s Call for Public Input on Spot Bitcoin ETF
The SEC has released a comprehensive 34-page document inviting commentary on the application submitted by Ark Invest and 21Shares. The primary objective of this outreach is to gauge whether the proposal aligns with the established regulatory criteria. Consequently, the anticipated resolution on the bitcoin ETF, which was initially scheduled for August, is now likely to be deferred.
Within this document, the SEC has laid out its concerns, seeking public perspectives on the potential susceptibility of the proposed ETF to market manipulation, particularly within the bitcoin market that underlies it. The agency has also raised pertinent questions about the status of the CME bitcoin futures market as a “regulated market of significant size” for the purpose of supporting a spot ETF.
In addition, the SEC is seeking insights into the liquidity and operational efficiency of bitcoin markets. Moreover, it has requested information regarding the ETF sponsors’ plans to collaborate with the agency by sharing surveillance data. Interested parties are given a 21-day window to submit their written data, viewpoints, and arguments as specified in the request.
This move represents the latest obstacle in the protracted journey toward the approval of a spot bitcoin ETF, a process marked by numerous applications over the years. While the SEC has granted approval to bitcoin futures ETFs, it has expressed reservations about spot funds due to concerns over market manipulation and the perceived lack of robust regulation in the realm of cryptocurrency markets.
The recent request made by the SEC is expected to lengthen the already extensive waiting period for the introduction of a spot bitcoin ETF. Issuers argue that such an ETF would offer a more secure avenue for mainstream investors to access bitcoin exposure. The SEC will carefully consider the input gathered through this feedback process before reaching a final verdict on the applications submitted by Ark Invest and 21Shares. Eric Balchunas, the senior ETF analyst for Bloomberg, characterized the SEC’s action as a routine procedure.
What are your thoughts regarding the SEC’s decision to seek public commentary on this matter? Feel free to share your opinions and insights on this topic in the comments section below.
Table Of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Bitcoin ETF delays
What is the recent development concerning Bitcoin ETF applications?
The recent development involves the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) seeking additional public feedback on proposals for spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs). This is likely to cause delays in the decision-making process for these high-profile applications.
Why did the SEC request additional public feedback?
The SEC is requesting public input to evaluate whether the proposed spot Bitcoin ETFs meet regulatory standards. They are particularly interested in assessing concerns related to market manipulation and regulatory compliance.
How does this request impact the decision timeline?
The decision on the spot Bitcoin ETFs, initially expected by August, is likely to be delayed due to the SEC’s request for additional feedback.
What aspects of the proposed ETFs is the SEC concerned about?
The SEC is concerned about the potential manipulation of the proposed ETFs and the underlying Bitcoin market. They are also questioning the suitability of the CME Bitcoin futures market as a significant-sized regulated market for supporting spot ETFs.
What other factors is the SEC seeking input on?
The SEC is seeking public feedback on the liquidity and efficiency of Bitcoin markets. Additionally, they are interested in the ETF sponsors’ plans to share surveillance data with the agency.
How long do interested parties have to provide feedback?
Interested parties have 21 days to submit their written data, viewpoints, and arguments regarding the proposed spot Bitcoin ETFs.
Why has the approval of a spot Bitcoin ETF faced challenges?
While Bitcoin futures ETFs have been approved, spot funds have encountered resistance due to concerns over market manipulation and perceived inadequacy of cryptocurrency market regulation.
How will the SEC use the feedback collected?
The SEC will carefully consider the feedback received from the public before making a final decision on the applications submitted by Ark Invest and 21Shares.
What does the senior ETF analyst for Bloomberg say about the SEC’s action?
The senior ETF analyst for Bloomberg, Eric Balchunas, described the SEC’s move as “pretty standard,” implying that it aligns with standard regulatory procedures.
Why are issuers advocating for a spot Bitcoin ETF?
Issuers argue that a spot Bitcoin ETF would provide a safer way for mainstream investors to gain exposure to Bitcoin, enhancing accessibility and security.
Individuals can share their thoughts and opinions about the SEC’s request for public feedback in the comments section provided.
More about Bitcoin ETF delays
- U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
- Ark Invest
- 21Shares
- CME Bitcoin futures market
- Bitcoin ETFs
- Cryptocurrency market manipulation
- Regulation of cryptocurrency markets
- Eric Balchunas, Senior ETF Analyst at Bloomberg
- Bitcoin exposure for mainstream investors
- Spot Bitcoin ETF applications
5 comments
SEC’s always slow, but dis time it feels rly draggin’. bitcoin needs legit options like etfs.
spot etfs r important 4 btc growth. SEC delay = frustration, but we hope 4 approv soon!
sec is bein’ all picky ’bout bitcoin etfs, takin’ longer than evr. they should just let ppl invest, u know?
Manipulation? Regul8tion? SEC raisin’ valid points. But cmon, let’s get btc etfs rollin’ already!
public opinion matters, gud 2 c SEC askin’ 4 feedback. hope dis leads 2 safer investments.