Along with the rising trend in the crypto market, the expectations of issuers wanting to enter the Ethereum ETF market are also increasing as the deadline approaches. After the launch of spot Bitcoin ETFs in January, investment vehicles based on Ethereum are being discussed more frequently. Moreover, it appears that the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is prolonging the decision-making process, similar to what happened with Bitcoin.
SEC and Issuers to Convene
According to a report by Reuters, the SEC is planning to meet with spot Ethereum ETF applicants next month.
These meetings aim to facilitate discussions and address concerns related to the proposed Ethereum-based investment vehicles. While no meeting dates are visible on the SEC’s public calendar, sources close to the matter continue to confirm these plans.
The SEC has postponed decisions regarding spot Ethereum ETFs to no earlier than May, delaying the process. VanEck’s application is at the forefront of the list, with the final decision date for the SEC marked as May 23rd.
In addition to VanEck, other leading issuers such as BlackRock, Franklin Templeton Grayscale, and Invesco Galaxy continue to await the SEC’s decision.
Last year, the name and interest in spot Ethereum ETFs increased alongside the moves made with Bitcoin ETFs. Following the approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs in January of 2024, 10 ETFs began trading, reflecting the market’s interest once again.
Gensler’s Approach to Ethereum ETFs
Despite his positive vote on Bitcoin, SEC Chairman Gary Gensler’s attitude towards cryptocurrencies continues to be negative, which seems to be affecting the approval process for spot Ethereum ETFs.
In this context, Gensler reiterates that despite the approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs, they are high-risk assets and the decision carries significant risks.
Contrary to the approval process for spot BTC ETFs, the SEC has so far chosen not to engage with issuers regarding spot ETH ETFs. The SEC’s stance creates significant uncertainty over the process for issuers.
Recently, leading participants in the crypto industry, such as Coinbase, expressed support for the approval of Grayscale’s spot ETH ETF application.
