Attorney Scott Johnsson suggested that the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) could approve a spot Ethereum (ETH) exchange-traded fund (ETF) as early as May 2024. Johnsson’s prediction is based on the regulatory progress made in the approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs, and he expects the SEC to operate a similar timeline for spot Ethereum ETFs. However, there is also the possibility of a delay, with the expected timeline potentially extending to mid-2025 if not met.
SEC May Apply Same Process for Ethereum as It Did for Bitcoin
Sharing his thoughts from his personal X account on spot Ethereum ETFs, Johnsson highlighted the SEC’s initial steps in approving spot Bitcoin ETFs, noting a quick progression from initial comments on ETF registration statements to amended S-1 forms and final approval within 90 days. As the decision deadline for spot Ethereum ETFs approaches on May 23, Johnsson anticipates a similar process, with the regulatory groundwork already in place for a swift approval.
Despite his optimism about the potential approval timeline, Johnsson continues to exercise caution regarding the SEC’s approach, acknowledging that there could be deviations from the timeline set for spot Bitcoin ETFs. He notes that the SEC could potentially delay the comment phase and 19b-4 approval for spot Ethereum ETFs, altering the process.
Bloomberg ETF analyst James Seyffart, on the other hand, holds a contrary view to Johnsson, suggesting that due to the progress made by spot Bitcoin ETFs in their regulatory journey, the SEC may not need much time to approve spot Ethereum ETFs. Seyffart believes that the approval process for Ethereum could be faster and attributes the SEC’s current silence to this potentially accelerated timeline.
The anticipation for spot Ethereum ETF approval continues to draw significant interest from the cryptocurrency world and industry observers. Several leading companies, including Fidelity, Invesco, and BlackRock, have applied to the SEC for spot Ethereum ETFs, reflecting the increasing demand.
Notable Expert Predicts Delay in Spot Ethereum ETF Approval
Some, like Valkyrie’s Chief Investment Officer Steven McClurg, expect a delay in approval beyond May 2024, but remain confident that approval will ultimately be granted.
McClurg points to the complexity of statements for a spot Ethereum ETF, suggesting that the approval process could continue for another year. Meanwhile, Ripple‘s CEO Brad Garlinghouse expressed optimism about the approval of spot cryptocurrency ETFs beyond Bitcoin, claiming that the launch of spot ETFs for various cryptocurrencies over time is inevitable.
