The United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has reissued a cautionary statement regarding the dangers of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) crypto investing. This advisory comes just days before the expected approval decision on spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs).
The SEC’s Office of Investor Education, in a January 6 announcement, emphasized the potential risks associated with digital assets, including meme stocks, cryptocurrencies, and nonfungible tokens (NFTs).
The reiteration of this warning has sparked speculation among social media users that the SEC may soon greenlight one or more spot Bitcoin ETFs, with a decision deadline looming on January 10.
FOMO crypto investing warning resurfaces
The “Say no go to FOMO” blog post originally surfaced on January 23, 2021, during a surging crypto and equities markets that saw Bitcoin, Ether, and numerous altcoins achieving record highs by November 2021.
The advisory was reiterated in March 2022 as market temperatures cooled down. Speculation is rife that the SEC’s renewed warning may signal an imminent decision on spot Bitcoin ETFs.
The SEC’s warning highlights the role of celebrities and athletes in promoting crypto assets and emphasizes that investors should not base their financial decisions solely on endorsements from popular figures.
The advisory states,
“You may see your favorite athlete, entertainer, or social media influencer promoting these investment opportunities. Although it’s tempting, never invest based solely on their recommendation.”
The SEC has taken punitive action against celebrities for their involvement in promoting certain cryptocurrencies. For example, in October last year, Kim Kardashian agreed to a $1.26 million settlement with the SEC for failing to disclose that she was paid $250,000 to promote a dubious token called Ethereum Max (EMAX) to her 360 million Instagram followers.
Warning about market volatility
The SEC’s advisory also cautions investors about the potential volatility of assets influenced by trends and celebrity endorsements.
It emphasizes that while these investments may initially seem appealing, substantial losses can accumulate swiftly as the market moves on without them.
The report poses a thought-provoking question:
“How would you feel if your investment lost 20, 30, or even 50 percent in a single day?”
Crypto industry awaits Bitcoin ETF decision
The cryptocurrency industry is closely monitoring the developments in the Bitcoin ETF space. Senior Bloomberg ETF analyst Eric Balchunas predicts that most applicants will receive approval within the week, especially those who met the regulator’s requirements before December 29.
In a straightforward and unbiased tone, the SEC has reissued a warning to retail investors regarding the potential pitfalls of FOMO crypto investing. This announcement has coincided with the anticipation surrounding the approval of spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds, creating speculation that regulatory decisions may be imminent.
The SEC’s advisory reiterates the dangers associated with hasty investments in digital assets, including meme stocks, cryptocurrencies, and NFTs.
It specifically draws attention to the influence of celebrities, athletes, and social media figures in promoting crypto assets. Investors are urged not to base their financial decisions solely on endorsements from popular personalities.
Over the years, the SEC has not hesitated to take legal action against celebrities who have failed to disclose their financial incentives for promoting cryptocurrencies. One notable case involves Kim Kardashian, who agreed to a substantial settlement after endorsing a dubious token to her vast Instagram following.
In addition to celebrity endorsements, the advisory also highlights the volatility inherent in assets influenced by trends and influencers. While such investments may appear enticing initially, the report underscores the rapid accumulation of losses when the market moves in a different direction.
The cryptocurrency industry is on edge as it awaits the SEC’s decision on spot Bitcoin ETFs. Analysts suggest that most applicants, especially those who met regulatory requirements before December 29, may receive approval within the coming week.
