Breaking: US SEC Delays Decision on WisdomTree Bitcoin ETF Application

The US SEC has delayed its decision to approved or deny the application for spot Bitcoin ETF from WisdomTree
By Godfrey Benjamin
US SEC Rescinds Crypto Accounting Rule SAB 121 After Gensler's Exit

The United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has delayed its decision to either approve or deny the request from WisdomTree to launch a spot Bitcoin ETF product in the country. The delay comes on the heels of growing clamor for such a product which has notably intensified this week after Grayscale Investments won its suit against the market regulator.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Multiple Bitcoin ETFs Delayed

According to a screenshot shared by Fox Business journalist and producer Eleanor Terrett, the SEC has a document announcing a “longer period of commission action on the proposed rule change” for WisdomTree Bitcoin Trust. In addition to this, other investment asset management firms including Invesco, Valkyrie and Galaxy have also had their ETF decisions bordering on either approval or rejection postponed by the regulator. 

This delay is not suggestive of whether or not the markets regulator will approve or deny the WisdomTree request that was first filed on December 8, 2021. After much turmoil that trailed related products, the investment manager refiled the application on June 19, 2023, joining the likes of BlackRock, Fidelity Investments, and Bitwise who are also in the race to float a related product. 

WisdomTree was keen on gaining exposure to Bitcoin with its proposed ETF while maintaining low expenses. 

At the time of the filing, the firm announced plans to leverage an independent pricing source in valuing its BTC. Based on the 45th-day time period reserved for the regulator to make a decision, September 4th, 2023 is supposed to be the stipulated time. However, the SEC is pushing to extend this 45th-day time period.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Bitwise Exec Urges SEC to Approve Bitcoin ETFs Together

Noteworthy, Bitwise’s chief investment officer, Matt Hougan, recently urged the U.S. SEC to approve all pending Bitcoin ETFs including that of WisdomTree. 

Hougan believed that concurrent ETF approvals will significantly profit investors as it would be in their best interest but at the same time, he was not ignorant of the unpredictability of the regulator which could still amount to rejection at the end of the day.

His advice came right when the entire crypto industry was anticipating a favourable decision from the regulator seeing that it had neared the crucial decision week. 

Advertisement
Godfrey Benjamin
Benjamin Godfrey is a blockchain enthusiast and journalists who relish writing about the real life applications of blockchain technology and innovations to drive general acceptance and worldwide integration of the emerging technology. His desires to educate people about cryptocurrencies inspires his contributions to renowned blockchain based media and sites. Benjamin Godfrey is a lover of sports and agriculture. Follow him on X, Linkedin
Why trust CoinGape: CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights to our readers. Our journalists and analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.
Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
Ad Disclosure: This site may feature sponsored content and affiliate links. All advertisements are clearly labeled, and ad partners have no influence over our editorial content.