Grayscale CEO, Michael Sonnenshein, recently emphasized the critical need for regulators to approve spot Bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF) options. In a statement, Sonnenshein highlighted the absence of listed options for the Grayscale Bitcoin Trust (GBTC), which has been available in the public market since 2015. As listed options are not currently offered in the OTC market, Sonnenshein stressed the importance of developing a robust market for spot Bitcoin ETFs to support the growing demand.
Sonnenshein emphasized the need for equal treatment of similar products in the market. He asserted that both Bitcoin futures ETFs and spot Bitcoin ETFs should be treated equally, and this should extend to listed options on these products as well. Sonnenshein noted that the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and other national securities exchanges have submitted filings to enable options trading on commodity-based ETFs, including Grayscale’s GBTC fund. Now, it is crucial for the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to review and consider these applications.
Sonnenshein argued that spot Bitcoin ETF options are beneficial for investors. He stated that options enable price discovery, facilitate better navigation of market conditions, and generate income. These advantages apply to both retail and institutional investors alike. Therefore, the approval of spot Bitcoin ETF options would significantly enhance the investment landscape and provide investors with more flexibility and opportunities.
Presently, the SEC is in the process of assessing various spot Bitcoin ETF applications. The agency recently opened comments on BlackRock’s Nasdaq-listed fund and various Cboe BZX-listed funds. While Bloomberg ETF analyst James Seyffart predicts a decision could be made between February and September 2024, other reports suggest a potential decision as late as December 2024. The elongated timeline is attributed to the possibility that both the SEC and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) will need to grant approval. However, it is worth noting that the SEC has already approved various underlying spot Bitcoin ETFs on January 10, including Grayscale’s GBTC ETF.
Grayscale’s GBTC ETF holds significant prominence in the spot Bitcoin market. Converted from an existing fund, it currently manages assets worth $20.5 billion as of February 2. This makes GBTC the largest spot Bitcoin ETF currently available. However, it is important to note that the fund also experiences substantial outflows, indicating the need for more diverse investment options within the spot Bitcoin market.
The approval of spot Bitcoin ETF options is of utmost importance in meeting the demands of investors in the growing cryptocurrency market. Sonnenshein’s advocacy for regulatory action seeks to foster a robust listed options market that would enhance price discovery, provide better market navigation, and generate income for both retail and institutional investors. It is now crucial for the SEC to consider the applications submitted by exchanges and promptly address the need for spot Bitcoin ETF options.