The Outlook for Ethereum Spot ETF Approval in the US

‍

Image Source: Unsplash

‍

In recent years, the cryptocurrency market has been eagerly awaiting the approval of a spot Ethereum (ETH) exchange-traded fund (ETF) in the United States. Following the recent approval of a Bitcoin (BTC) spot ETF, market participants have turned their attention to the possibility of an ETH ETF gaining regulatory approval. This article explores the likelihood of an ETH spot ETF being approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the potential impact on the market, and the challenges that lie ahead.

The Road to Approval: A Historical Perspective

The journey towards ETF approval for cryptocurrencies has not been an easy one. The SEC has previously rejected numerous applications for Bitcoin ETFs, citing concerns over market manipulation, custody, and investor protection. However, the recent approval of a BTC spot ETF has raised hopes that the SEC may adopt a more favorable stance towards ETH ETFs.

Commissioner Hester Peirce has been a vocal advocate for crypto ETFs and has criticized the SEC’s previous denials of ETF applications as lacking a clear rationale. In her statement on the spot Bitcoin ETF approval, Peirce highlighted the erosion of trust in the SEC and the unnecessary circus surrounding crypto products. This approval has paved the way for a more positive outlook for ETH spot ETFs.

The Imminent Approval of an ETH Spot ETF

The approval of an ETH spot ETF is now seen as not only certain but imminent. Unlike the SEC’s previous denials, which were based on prejudice against Bitcoin, the regulator can no longer hide behind vague objections. The path has been cleared for crypto-backed and linked exchange-traded products (ETPs), ranging from simple spot products to more complex structured instruments.

Currently, there are seven ETH spot ETF applications awaiting review by the SEC. VanEck is leading the pack with a deadline of May 23, 2024, while BlackRock’s application is due in August. Typically, the approval timeline would be influenced by the world’s largest asset manager, but the SEC has already taken steps to review VanEck’s applications. This indicates a higher likelihood of approval, setting a positive precedent for other pending applications.

Source: Bloomberg Intelligence

Given the SEC’s recent approval of a BTC spot ETF and the ongoing demand for crypto investment products, the market is increasingly confident that an ETH spot ETF will receive approval in May. This approval would not only open the door for ETH but also pave the way for other digital assets to gain recognition as investment vehicles.

The Liquidity Challenge for ETH Spot ETF Approval

While the approval of an ETH spot ETF seems highly likely, there is one potential obstacle that could hinder the process: liquidity. Just as the size and scale of the Bitcoin market were a concern for a spot BTC ETF, liquidity constraints may pose a challenge for Ethereum. The transition from proof-of-work to proof-of-stake consensus mechanism has limited the supply of ETH and raised concerns about market depth.

Unlike BTC, which is primarily used as a store of value, ETH serves as a working currency for transactions on the Ethereum network. The growing popularity and adoption of Ethereum have led to an increasing number of transactions, further highlighting the importance of liquidity for an ETH spot ETF.

However, liquidity challenges are not unique to the cryptocurrency market. As mega ETP funds attract more assets from global pension savings, liquidity issues will continue to plague various markets. The industry has historically found solutions to address these challenges, and it is expected that similar measures will be implemented to ensure the success of an ETH spot ETF.

Is ETH a Commodity or a Security?

Another factor that may impact the approval of an ETH spot ETF is the question of whether ETH should be classified as a commodity or a security. Some argue that the SEC’s decision not to mention ETH in its lawsuit against crypto exchanges for violating securities laws implies that the regulator will classify ETH as a commodity in the near future, which is a prerequisite for spot ETF approval.

Furthermore, the approval of ETH futures-based ETFs in September 2021 could also be seen as an indication that ETH is deemed to be a commodity. However, JPMorgan analysts remain skeptical about the SEC classifying ETH as a commodity by May. They believe the chances of an ETH spot ETF approval by the SEC are not higher than 50%.

The ongoing lawsuits by the SEC against crypto exchanges offering staking services for proof-of-stake blockchains, including Ethereum, pose a challenge to the approval of an ETH spot ETF until these legal matters are resolved. The outcome of these lawsuits could influence the SEC’s decision on whether to classify ETH as a security or a commodity.

The Potential Impact of an ETH Spot ETF Approval

The approval of an ETH spot ETF would have significant implications for the cryptocurrency industry. It would provide professional investors in the US with a regulated avenue to gain exposure to Ethereum without directly owning the underlying asset. This could attract a new wave of institutional investors and further legitimize the digital asset market.

Moreover, an ETH spot ETF approval would likely lead to increased liquidity, price discovery, and market efficiency for Ethereum. It would provide retail investors with an accessible and regulated investment vehicle, potentially driving further adoption and market growth. Additionally, it would enhance Ethereum’s reputation as a viable investment option and solidify its position as the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization.

Conclusion: The Future of ETH Spot ETF Approval

While the approval of an ETH spot ETF in the US appears imminent, there are still challenges that need to be addressed. The liquidity constraints and the classification of ETH as a commodity or a security are key factors that could influence the SEC’s decision.

However, the recent approval of a BTC spot ETF has set a positive precedent and increased optimism for an ETH spot ETF approval. The market is eagerly awaiting the SEC’s decision on VanEck’s application in May, which could shape the future of crypto-backed and linked ETPs.

As the cryptocurrency industry continues to evolve and gain mainstream acceptance, the approval of an ETH spot ETF would mark a significant milestone in the institutionalization of the market. It would provide investors with regulated and accessible exposure to Ethereum, driving further growth and adoption of digital assets.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal or investment advice. The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency or organization mentioned.