The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has given the green light to the first US-listed exchange-traded funds (ETFs) tracking Bitcoin. Approval for 11 spot Bitcoin ETFs is seen not only as a boost to investor accessibility but also as a step towards fortifying and regulating the crypto market, according to experts.


While the past has seen scandals and fund losses due to compromised wallets or abrupt company closures, the listing of ETFs on tightly-regulated US stock exchanges now offers retail investors easier access through their existing brokerage accounts. These accounts, subject to strict supervision, provide an added layer of security to the investment process.

Describing ETFs as the simplest form of Bitcoin exposure for retail users, experts foresee seamless investor participation in Bitcoin price movements without the complexities of digital wallets or drastic changes in investment strategy. The potential impact is highlighted by the prospect of 401(k) retirement plans investing in Bitcoin ETFs, managing a colossal $6 trillion for around 60 million Americans. This influx of retail investors is anticipated to familiarize crypto further and onboard millions of new users to the crypto sphere, as stated by Ashish Singhal, Co-founder, and Group CEO at CoinSwitch and PeepalCo.

Bitcoin, the oldest and most popular virtual currency, has shown a remarkable 166% return over the last year, surging from $17,944 on January 12, 2023, to $46,460 on January 11, 2024, after reaching an all-time high of $68,789 on November 10, 2021.


Edul Patel, CEO of Mudrex, views the SEC's approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs as a significant milestone after a decade of anticipation and regulatory hurdles. This decision not only signals a growing acceptance of digital assets in traditional financial markets but is also expected to foster increased adoption, liquidity, and overall market maturity. The move signifies a shift in the perception of cryptocurrencies from a niche asset class to one gaining mainstream acceptance. 



The fact that these ETFs are set to trade on major exchanges such as NYSE Arca, Nasdaq, and Cboe BZX Exchange adds further legitimacy to the crypto market, opening up opportunities for a broader investor base to participate through familiar and established trading platforms. Investors are now closely monitoring developments surrounding Ethereum ETF applications.