After a decade of persistent efforts, spot bitcoin ETFs have finally received approval in the U.S., marking a significant milestone in the cryptocurrency realm. The exciting part? They’re set to hit the U.S. markets on Thursday morning, with the NYSE, Cboe Global Markets, and Nasdaq orchestrating the debut, complemented by support from major trading firms to ensure liquidity.
Accessible Bitcoin Exposure for All
These eagerly awaited products, approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission, are poised to open up bitcoin investment to a broader audience. Come Thursday morning, retail customers can leverage their conventional brokerage apps and accounts, while traditional financial institutions can partake without navigating the complexities of crypto exchanges.
Cynthia Lo Bessette, head of digital asset management at Fidelity, one of the bitcoin ETF issuers, emphasizes the expanded choices these ETFs offer to investors keen on digital assets. These products differ from the 2021-approved bitcoin futures ETFs, focusing on the digital asset itself rather than derivatives.
“We’ve long believed a spot-priced exchange traded-product would be an efficient way for investors to gain exposure to bitcoin,” said Bessette, highlighting Fidelity’s commitment to meeting the growing demand for secure market access.
A Boost for Liquidity
With 11 spot bitcoin ETFs entering the scene, liquidity providers and market makers have diligently prepared for this moment. These funds, some already securing substantial assets pre-launch, are expected to bring a new wave of interest into the market on Thursday.
Douglas Yones, NYSE Head of Exchange Traded Products, is confident that liquidity will be well-supported by Bitcoin’s spot and futures markets, along with the Bitcoin futures ETFs. The NYSE has also implemented various liquidity programs to ensure a dynamic and liquid market.
Robert Mitchnick, head of digital assets at BlackRock, reveals the asset manager’s collaboration with Coinbase to enhance market efficiency. While the exact assets under management at launch remain undisclosed, Mitchnick emphasizes that BlackRock views this as a long process.
The Gradual Journey Ahead
Despite the anticipated excitement on day one, experts like David Mann from Franklin Templeton foresee a gradual ramp-up in interest and investments. Mann suggests that investors, particularly ETF users, may take their time to review and become comfortable with the bitcoin ETF vehicle before committing substantial funds.
Mitchnick echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the “long journey” after the launch. Wealth advisers, potentially a significant investment channel, may need time for education and suitability conversations with clients. Institutional investors, new to viable exposure solutions, are also likely to approach the bitcoin ETF cautiously.
In essence, while there might be a burst of enthusiasm at the launch, the real journey for investors is expected to unfold gradually over weeks or even months.
