The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has granted approval for combined Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs from Hashdex and Franklin Templeton. This landmark decision broadens institutional access to the two largest cryptocurrencies through spot-based investment vehicles.
The Hashdex Nasdaq Crypto Index US ETF and the Franklin Templeton Crypto Index ETF received regulatory clearance, with Franklin Templeton's filing benefiting from an expedited review process.
Combined Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs Approved After Consecutive Delays
Franklin Templeton’s updated ETF filing secured faster approval due to its alignment with established commodity-based trust standards.
According to SEC documentation, the regulator approved rule changes proposed by Nasdaq and Cboe BZX to facilitate the listing and trading of these funds.
"Hashdex Crypto Index ETF that just got approved by the SEC. At first it will only include BTC and ETH, but will expand to other assets over time… INCLUDING XRP!" noted artist Chad Steingraber.
Hashdex originally filed for its ETF in June, but the SEC postponed its decision twice, citing regulatory deliberations. Analysts speculate that impending leadership changes in Washington may have accelerated approvals.
"Launch likely in January. They’re market-cap weighted, so roughly 80% BTC and 20% ETH. Notable that Hashdex & Franklin Templeton are first. Good for them," said ETF analyst Eric Balchunas.
The approval coincides with heightened volatility in crypto markets, including **over $1 billion in liquidations** within 24 hours and Bitcoin’s price dropping **8%** from $105,000 to below $96,000.
Are Litecoin ETFs Next?
Bloomberg analysts previously predicted dual Bitcoin and Ethereum ETF approvals—now confirmed—and project Litecoin ETFs as the next likely SEC authorization.
While institutional demand for LTC may be limited, its status as a Bitcoin fork positions it as a potential commodity under U.S. regulations. However, uncertainties persist for ETFs tied to assets like Solana and XRP.
Recent SEC leadership shifts suggest a more crypto-friendly stance. The Senate Banking Committee declined to re-nominate Commissioner Caroline Crenshaw, a vocal supporter of Chair Gary Gensler’s regulatory approach. Her term concludes in January, leaving a key vacancy.
FAQ Section
Q: What are the key differences between Hashdex’s and Franklin Templeton’s ETFs?
A: Both track Bitcoin and Ethereum, but Hashdex plans to expand to other assets (e.g., XRP), while Franklin Templeton’s filing emphasized expedited approval via commodity-trust standards.
Q: When will these ETFs launch?
A: Expected in January 2025, with market-cap weightings of ~80% BTC and 20% ETH.
Q: Could other cryptocurrencies gain ETF approvals soon?
A: Litecoin is a likely candidate, but Solana and XRP face regulatory hurdles. Leadership changes at the SEC may influence future decisions.
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