Recent reports have revealed that the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has implemented a “new regulatory standard” for all Bitcoin Spot Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) applicants while awaiting approval from the regulatory body. The SEC’s latest “Cash Redemption Model” came amid the spot Bitcoin ETF issuers ironing their filings with the US regulator. It seems that the SEC is unwavering in its demand, rather than approve the different model that other issuers have suggested.
Financial lawyer Scott Johnsson recently shared an update regarding the new model by the regulatory body. He revealed that Invesco is the most recent company to adopt the cash creation and redemption standard for its ETF. The trust anticipates that “creation and redemption transactions will be made in cash at first.” However, in the future, the Trust may permit/require creation and redemption transactions to be carried out with the “in-kind” model, which other ETF applicants have suggested.
Blackrock, another major player in the ETF space, recently adjusted its Spot Bitcoin ETF application by introducing an in-kind redemption model called “Prepay.” This modification aims to tackle the restrictions that financial firms face in holding cryptocurrencies, making it easier for Wall Street Banks to participate in the fund. With this adjustment, authorized participants (APs) would be allowed to issue new fund shares using cash instead of just Bitcoin.
Blackrock believes that the newly proposed in-kind redemption model offers greater protection against market manipulation, which has been a major reason behind the SEC’s rejection of ETF applications in the past. By allowing the conversion of cash into Bitcoin through an intermediary and storing it with the ETF’s custody provider, this model provides access to banks that are unable to store cryptocurrencies directly.
The SEC’s implementation of the Cash Redemption Model for Bitcoin ETF applicants signifies a shift in the regulatory landscape for this emerging asset class. While some issuers have proposed the in-kind model, the SEC’s insistence on the cash model demonstrates their preference for a more traditional approach to ETFs.
This new regulatory standard could have broader implications for the future of ETFs beyond just Bitcoin. If the SEC continues to require cash redemption, it may influence other asset classes and further shape the regulatory framework for ETFs in the United States.
Incorporating the cash redemption model may provide a greater level of transparency and oversight for ETFs, as cash transactions are typically easier to track and regulate compared to in-kind transactions involving various securities.
However, this new standard may also limit the accessibility of ETFs, particularly for investors who prefer the convenience and simplicity of in-kind transactions. The need for cash redemption could create additional barriers to entry for certain investors and make it more challenging for ETFs to attract a wider range of participants.
Overall, the SEC’s implementation of the Cash Redemption Model for Bitcoin ETF applicants is a significant development in the regulatory landscape. It remains to be seen how this new standard will impact the future of ETFs and whether it will be adopted for other asset classes. As the industry continues to evolve, it is crucial for both regulators and issuers to find a balance that fosters innovation while ensuring investor protection and market integrity.
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