The Dawn of Bitcoin ETFs in the USA: A Turning Point for Digital Assets 

Benjamin Dean

January 19, 2024

Benjamin is a Director in the Digital Assets team for WisdomTree. He focuses on overall digital asset strategy, research and external relations. Prior to joining the company Ben was Cyber Catastrophe Lead at Hiscox Insurance Group. His prior work experience covered the opportunities and risks presented by emerging technologies for organisations including the OECD and the European Parliament. 
 Ben was a Fellow for Cybersecurity and received a Master of International Affairs from the School of International and Public Affairs at Columbia University. He also graduated with honours from the University of Sydney with a Bachelor of Economic and Social Sciences.

The world of finance witnessed a monumental milestone with the approval of the first spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in the United States. This event marks a significant step in the journey of Bitcoin and digital assets towards mainstream acceptance. In an enlightening episode of the Crypto Clarified podcast, Ryan Louvar, Chief Legal Officer at WisdomTree, sheds light on this evolution.  

A Path with Many Obstacles  

The journey to a Spot Bitcoin ETF approval was not without its challenges. One of the primary hurdles was the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) concern over protective mechanisms against fraud and manipulation in the Bitcoin market. This issue was a significant barrier, especially when compared to other spot markets like gold, which do not have regulated markets overseen by the SEC. However, the approval of futures ETFs, including those for Bitcoin, marked a watershed moment, paving the way for the eventual approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs. 

The Future of Digital Assets and the Role of WisdomTree:  

The approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs in the United States is a historic milestone in the journey of digital assets towards mainstream acceptance. This development opens new avenues for investors, offering digital asset exposure and bringing transparency to the digital asset class. As the digital asset industry continues to evolve, the role of innovative financial products like ETFs are likely to play a more prominent role.  

Download WisdomTree Prime here: http://app.wisdomtreeprime.com/owuo/lv7shqk9 

Watch the Full Crypto Clarified Episode Below: 

Stay in the know

Sign up to get our latest insights!

Similar Articles

Get the WisdomTree Prime™ app

Scan the QR Code to download the app.

WisdomTree Prime™ is available in:

We plan on being in all 50 states soon!
If we aren’t currently available in your state, join our waitlist below.

By clicking “Submit”, you acknowledge reading the privacy policy and disclosures.