All exchanges and firms applying for Spot Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) have submitted their final 19b-4 amendments to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). This development indicates a growing optimism that the SEC will approve their Bitcoin ETF applications.
Following a thorough review of S1 and other relevant documents, the SEC earlier confirmed that it has completed its review process for the applicants. The Commission has requested the submission of any final documents and 19b-4 amendments, suggesting that the voting process on these applications could commence as early as next week.
The amended 19b-4 filings, representing notable issuers like BlackRock, Grayscale, and Fidelity, address feedback from the SEC obtained during meetings over the past few months. These filings complement the amended S-1 filings submitted last month.
One key application, by Ark 21 Shares, faces a final SEC decision deadline of January 1. This date could potentially see not only Ark 21 Shares but also several other Bitcoin ETF applications receiving approval. If the SEC opts for a collective decision, over a dozen issuers might soon launch their Spot Bitcoin ETFs.
Before the launch of these ETFs, the SEC must approve both the 19b-4 and the S-1 filings. This advancement in the application process is a significant step for the cryptocurrency market, reflecting a possible shift in the regulatory environment and the increasing mainstream acceptance of digital assets.