‘Close To The Finish Line’: Bitwise CCO Speaks On Ethereum ETFs Progress

As an experienced financial analyst, I’ve closely followed the developments in the cryptocurrency market, particularly regarding exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Katherine Dowling’s recent interview on Bloomberg Crypto about Bitwise’s spot Ethereum ETF application and the potential launch of other crypto-related products piqued my interest.


On Tuesday, Katherine Dowling, the Chief Communications Officer at Bitwise Asset Management, spoke about their pending Ethereum spot ETF proposal and the potential approval of new cryptocurrency offerings by the US Securities and Exchange Commission.

Ethereum ETFs Close To Launch

Katherine Dowling recently spoke on Bloomberg Crypto about the latest developments regarding Bitwise’s application for a spot Ethereum Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF). The Chief Commercial Officer of the crypto fund reported that the process is moving forward efficiently, as S-1 amendments present fewer and easier-to-address challenges for the issuers.

‘Close To The Finish Line’: Bitwise CCO Speaks On Ethereum ETFs Progress

The statement implies that the Ethereum ETF launches are nearly complete according to Dowling’s assessment, but the issuers have endured a prolonged and challenging wait without a confirmed launch date in sight during this summer season.

As the chair mentioned, we’re looking at some point during the warmer season, which varies for each individual.

Previously, Gary Gensler, the chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), had announced that investment products would receive approval from the SEC during the summer months. This announcement has sparked much anticipation about when these products, specifically Ethereum ETFs, might be launched on the market. According to recent reports from Reuters, sources close to some of the applicants have indicated that an approval for the Ethereum ETFs could potentially occur as early as July 4.

As an analyst, I would explain that when it comes to the demand for Ether-based investment products among retail and institutional investors, ETH Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) present a more intricate selling proposition compared to their spot Bitcoin counterparts.

As a market analyst, I would interpret Dowling’s perspective as follows: Although the market structure of this specific asset may require more explanation compared to Bitcoin’s “digital gold” attributes, it is still a viable investment option and not an overly difficult sell.

Bitcoin currently holds the dominant position in the cryptocurrency market. We’re about half a year late in terms of access, but we’re on the brink of introducing spot Ethereum Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs).

November Elections: The Decisive Moment For More ETFs

Dowling further explored the potential for additional crypto-backed ETFs to receive SEC approval. In conversation with the regulatory body, the CCO disclosed discussions about “upcoming offerings” in this sector.

Seemingly, the discussions between the issuers and the SEC have been productive and welcoming:

Our interaction with the SEC regarding these products is open and encouraging, in my opinion.

Although the US regulatory body has given a favorable decision regarding Dowling’s proposal for a crypto-ETF based on Ethereum, he remains skeptical about the approval of any further such applications.

The Chief Compliance Officer believes that the appointment of a new SEC chairman could delay the release of certain investment products; otherwise, it may take a significant amount of time to bring these products to market due to past experiences.

Expert’s response:

‘Close To The Finish Line’: Bitwise CCO Speaks On Ethereum ETFs Progress

An ETF analyst confirmed his previous stance this week following the Chicago Board Options Exchange’s (CBOE) submission of a form 19b-4 for VanEck and 21Shares. The filing indicates that Solana ETFs will have a concluding deadline in mid-March 2025.

Despite Balchunas’ belief that the crucial turning point lies in November, he noted that the situation could unfold differently depending on the election outcome. “If Biden emerges as the winner, these [ETFs] may no longer survive. On the other hand, if Trump secures another term, anything is possible,” explained the ETF expert.

‘Close To The Finish Line’: Bitwise CCO Speaks On Ethereum ETFs Progress

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2024-07-11 11:12