- Cboe BZX files for Solana Spot ETF from Bitwise Asset Management.
- Solana’s growing popularity and global adoption with Europe leading the way.
- A crypto-friendly administration could accelerate SOL Spot ETF in the U.S.
The Cboe BZX Exchange has just filed to list a spot Solana ETP from Bitwise Asset Management. Bitwise now joins VanEck and Canary Capital in the race for SEC approval. The filing has sparked exciting developments that could open up new investment opportunities for crypto enthusiasts and traditional investors alike.
The proposed ETP would directly hold SOL, the native token of the Solana blockchain and the third-largest crypto asset in the world. While the ETP will initially operate as a cash-settled product, Bitwise aims to transition it to a physically-backed structure, allowing investors to directly own SOL tokens. This would make it a truly unique investment vehicle.
The rise of Solana-linked funds (ETFs) comes amidst a rebound crypto market led by Bitcoin’s recent rallies. This signals a transformative phase for the crypto industry. Investment giants such as Grayscale and Bitwise have already introduced crypto index funds and spot ETFs for major assets
In Europe, SOL-linked ETFs have already made their mark. Platforms such as Euronext and Xetra facilitate the trading of these products, demonstrating a growing appetite for altcoin-focused funds.
Solana Spot ETF: A Waiting Game for U.S. Investors
Despite this progress, skepticism persists in the U.S. market, primarily due to regulatory hurdles and the absence of a futures market for Solana. Historically, approvals for spot Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs were heavily influenced by the existence of futures markets, which addressed concerns about fraud and market manipulation.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has expressed apprehension about altcoin ETFs, citing the potential for abuse in markets without established futures mechanisms. Experts believe that introducing a Solana futures ETF could serve as a precursor to securing spot ETF approval.
Another major hurdle is Solana’s classification as a security under certain conditions. Unlike commodities such as Bitcoin or Ethereum, securities require compliance with stricter disclosure and reporting standards. This classification complicates the approval process, as ETFs linked to securities must meet heightened regulatory requirements.
The landscape could shift with changes in U.S. political and regulatory leadership. A crypto-friendly administration, coupled with a new SEC chair open to innovation, might redefine the framework governing altcoin ETFs. Analysts suggest that rising institutional interest in Solana and evolving policies could create a favorable environment for its ETF approval.