Breaking: US SEC to Hold Meetings With Top Exchanges Over Spot Bitcoin ETFs

In a recent development in the crypto space, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is reportedly holding meetings with top exchanges, including Nasdaq, CBOE, and NYSE, to finalize comments on the 19b-4s submitted by spot Bitcoin ETF issuers. This news was first highlighted by Eleanor Terrett, a FoxBusiness journalist, in a post on X.

Terrett stated, “The @SECGov is holding meetings today with the exchanges (@Nasdaq, @CBOE, @NYSE) to finalize comments on the 19b-4s submitted by the BTC Spot ETF issuers.” 

Market Insights on Spot Bitcoin ETF Approval

Bloomberg’s ETF analyst, Eric Balchunas, weighed in on the situation, offering insights into the SEC’s actions. Balchunas commented, “Things you prob don’t do if you going to deny or delay.”

The meetings are primarily focused on finalizing comments on the 19b-4 submissions, a crucial step in the regulatory approval process. Eric Balchunas’ observation about the SEC’s meticulous engagement with issuers offline rather than resorting to numerous refiling indicates a concerted effort to streamline the approval process. Balchunas suggested that the submission of updated 19b-4s indicates a likelihood of imminent approval, as opposed to denial or delay.

Things you prob don't do if you going to deny or delay. Hearing similar btw, and why why when we see updated (final) 19b-4s roll in that is sign approval imminent as SEC has been doing back and forth w issuers offline to perfect their 19b-4s vs doing numerous refilings a la S-1s https://t.co/1K0tUYD4xa

— Eric Balchunas (@EricBalchunas) January 3, 2024

The focus of these meetings builds upon the SEC’s previous interactions with filers from the last month, suggesting ongoing efforts to refine and finalize the necessary documentation for spot Bitcoin ETFs. This regulatory collaboration aims to provide clarity and a structured framework for the approval process.

Meanwhile, the timing of these meetings is noteworthy, serving as a potential palliative against any market slump. The crypto market, particularly Bitcoin, has seen considerable volatility in recent times. The SEC’s active involvement in discussions with major exchanges could act as a stabilizing force, offering reassurance to investors and market participants.

Potential Approval Speculation

Speculation is rife within the crypto community regarding the likelihood of imminent approval following the latest rumors that suggests the markets regulator might backtrack and deny the expected applications later this month.

With BlackRock and other major players advocating for the approval of the first spot Bitcoin ETF, anticipation is building. However, there is a debate within the community about the potential impact of the ETF approval, with some suggesting it could trigger a sell-the-news event.

K33 Research predicts a decision on Bitcoin ETFs between January 8 and January 10 is likely, setting the stage for potential market-moving news.