TechCrunch reporter Jacquelyn Melinek recently provided an update on the expected timeline for spot Bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF) approvals. In a statement posted on Jan. 5, Melinek acknowledged that her previous prediction of an imminent approval was not on track. According to her sources, approvals could now be expected next week, but with “no definitive timing.” She explained that the government is moving at its own pace, resulting in a slower process than initially anticipated.
Melinek highlighted the extensive work happening behind the scenes as the reason for the delayed approval process. While she had initially mentioned her expectations based on insider information, she emphasized that circumstances change and she has no control over that. Nevertheless, she shared that issuers are likely to finalize their 19b-4 filings, which concern rule changes necessary for exchanges to list each spot Bitcoin ETF, within the coming days. These filings will soon be made public, shedding more light on the developments in the ETF approval process.
Popular commentators in the cryptocurrency space have also updated their predictions regarding the spot Bitcoin ETF approvals. Fox Business reporter Eleanor Terrett, who had previously suggested a possible Friday approval, now anticipates that ETF applicants will submit their 19b-4 filings today, paving the way for a potential approval next week. Bloomberg ETF analyst James Seyffart, who initially expected approval by Jan. 10, remains optimistic about potential approval orders to be issued next week.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is facing a decision on a joint application from Ark Invest and 21Shares by Wednesday, Jan. 10. Although there is a chance of the SEC rejecting this particular ETF, many industry experts believe that the approval trend will continue for this and other applications. The optimism stems from the ongoing meetings between the SEC and the ETF applicants, regular amendments made by the applicants, and the participation of major asset management firms like BlackRock and Fidelity in the ETF space.
As the date approaches for the SEC to make its decision on the Ark Invest and 21Shares application, the cryptocurrency community eagerly awaits further updates. The evolving landscape of the spot Bitcoin ETF approval process underscores the complex regulatory environment surrounding cryptocurrencies. While delays may cause frustration, the increasing interest from high-profile asset management firms and continued engagement with regulatory authorities signal a shift towards wider adoption and acceptance of digital assets like Bitcoin.
Despite the revised timeline and unforeseen delays, industry insiders remain hopeful about the imminent approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs. The ongoing discussions among stakeholders, the diligent work behind the scenes, and the anticipation surrounding the SEC’s decisions all contribute to the growing confidence in the future of Bitcoin ETFs. As the cryptocurrency market continues to mature, these developments pave the way for increased institutional participation, greater liquidity, and potentially new investment opportunities for both retail and institutional investors.
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