SEC Delays Ethereum ETF Rulings Until May 2024

The SEC has started proceedings to evaluate whether to approve or disapprove the proposed rule change, aimed at enabling the listing of shares for the products.

The United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has postponed its verdict on approving applications from various asset management firms for Ethereum exchange-traded funds (ETFs) until May 2024.

Several filings indicate that the securities regulator has issued delay orders for Ethereum ETF applications from Ark Invest/21Shares, VanEck, and Hashdex.

SEC Postpones Deadline for Three Ethereum ETFs
In September, Ark Invest/21Shares, VanEck, and Hashdex submitted applications to introduce Ethereum ETFs. VanEck and Ark Invest/21Shares focus on tracking the spot price of ether (ETH), while Hashdex plans to unveil a diversified fund that merges spot and futures price movements.

The SEC has announced the initiation of proceedings to decide on the approval or disapproval of the proposed rule change facilitating the listing of the products’ shares. The filings that have been submitted are currently open for public input and will remain accessible for a period of 35 days after being published in the Federal Register.

Bloomberg analyst James Seyffart noted that the Commission’s recent action has prolonged the ultimate decision date for the approval or disapproval of the proposals until May 2024. It’s noteworthy that the anticipated delay orders for VanEck, Ark Invest/21Shares, and Hashdex were initially set for December 25, 26, and January 1, respectively.

Invesco and Grayscale Included in the Mix
After the SEC extended deadlines for Ethereum ETF applications by Invesco/Galaxy Digital and Grayscale Investments, Invesco is working towards launching a new spot Ethereum ETF, while Grayscale plans to transform its Grayscale Ethereum Trust (ETHE) into a spot product.

Initially set for a decision on December 23, the Invesco Galaxy Ethereum spot ETF now awaits a ruling on February 4 due to the delay.

Although Grayscale’s public comments period has concluded, the SEC has granted additional time to assess the proposed rule change. Meanwhile, the cryptocurrency community awaits potential approval of approximately 13 spot Bitcoin ETF applications by January.

While the public comments period for Grayscale has concluded, the SEC has extended the review period for the proposed rule change. Simultaneously, the cryptocurrency community is eagerly awaiting potential approval for approximately 13 spot Bitcoin ETF applications by January.