In a significant move that could reshape the cryptocurrency investment landscape, BlackRock Inc. has submitted a revised proposal to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for its iShares spot Bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF). This latest version introduces pivotal changes, potentially paving the way for increased participation by Wall Street banks in the burgeoning cryptocurrency market.
BlackRock unveils bank-friendly Bitcoin ETF model
Central to BlackRock’s revised proposal is a mechanism allowing U.S.-regulated banks to engage in the cryptocurrency sphere without directly handling digital assets. Under the new structure, banks can participate as “authorized participants” (APs), leveraging broker-dealers to handle the conversion of fiat currency to Bitcoin. This approach skillfully navigates regulatory constraints that traditionally prevent banks from directly holding cryptocurrencies on their balance sheets.
In this arrangement, the broker-dealer is responsible for the fiat-to-Bitcoin conversion process, subsequently transferring the digital assets to Coinbase Custody, the designated custodian in BlackRock’s ecosystem. This system simplifies banks’ entry into the cryptocurrency market and aligns with regulatory compliance requirements.
BlackRock’s updated ETF model is touted for its robustness against market manipulation, primarily due to the involvement of regulated financial institutions as intermediaries. The model is also recognized for lower transaction costs and a generally reduced risk of operational issues. By shifting risks from investors to market makers, the ETF enhances safety for individual participants. Additionally, the structure eliminates issuers’ need to pre-fund or finance sell trades, further streamlining the investment process.
This innovative approach was detailed in a meeting with the SEC on November 28, attended by representatives from both BlackRock and Nasdaq. This meeting marked the second occasion BlackRock has engaged with the SEC regarding its spot Bitcoin ETF proposal.
Regulatory landscape and industry optimism
Reviewing 13 applications for spot Bitcoin ETFs, the SEC set a January 15 deadline to decide on BlackRock’s proposal. This review comes after a history of rejections of similar applications by the SEC, with concerns centered around market manipulation and fraud. However, the mood within the industry is one of cautious optimism, with many anticipating the approval of one or more proposals in the near future.
James Seyffart, a Bloomberg ETF and crypto analyst, highlighted recent meetings between the SEC and other major players in the industry, including Fidelity Investments, Grayscale Investments, and Franklin Templeton. These meetings underscore the growing interest and potential shift in regulatory stance towards cryptocurrency-based investment products.
Broader market impact and Bitcoin’s rally
The proposed ETF and its potential approval come when Bitcoin is experiencing a notable rally, driven by factors including expectations around the approval of a spot BTC ETF and the upcoming Bitcoin halving event. Market analysts project a bullish outlook for Bitcoin in 2024, with forecasts suggesting a possible climb to $50,000 by year-end.
BlackRock’s move to secure seed funding of $100,000 for its iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF at $25 per share last week demonstrates the growing institutional interest in cryptocurrency as a legitimate asset class.
As the market anticipates the SEC’s decision, approving BlackRock’s proposal could mark a watershed moment, potentially ushering in a new era of mainstream financial institutions actively participating in the cryptocurrency market. The industry awaits January 15 with bated breath, as the SEC’s decision could significantly influence the trajectory of cryptocurrency investment strategies.
