SEC Rushes ETF Launch Amid Potential US Government Shutdown

In anticipation of the looming U.S. government shutdown, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is purportedly hastening the debut of Exchange-Traded Funds (ETF). According to insights from Bloomberg analysts, should the trajectory remain unchanged, we could witness the launch of the Valkyrie Bitcoin and Ether ETF as early as next week.

Previously, Eric Balchunas and James Seyffart of Bloomberg had projected a robust 90% probability for the Ethereum Futures ETFs to roll out in October 2023. Moreover, they anticipate that the Valkyrie Bitcoin futures ETF ($BTF) will pioneer Ethereum exposure, likely on October 3, 2023. Furthermore, CoinGape had relayed that Valkyrie delineated a Form 497, outlining intentions to metamorphose BTF into a dual Bitcoin and Ether Exchange-Traded Fund.

However, recent statements by analyst Balchunas suggest an intriguing twist. Given the potential government shutdown, the SEC appears keen on expediting the Ethereum futures ETFs launch. This strategy seemingly aims to wrap up proceedings before a considerable chunk of SEC personnel become inaccessible, should the shutdown materialize. Balchunas said, “The SEC seeks to speed up the Ether futures ETFs launch… and have requested filers to revise their documents by Friday.”

Additionally, during a hearing by the US House Financial Services Committee regarding SEC oversight, Chair Gary Gensler intimated that a potential government shutdown would drastically trim the Commission’s workforce.

Significantly, this unfolding scenario might impact other Ethereum ETF filings. The Volatility Shares Ethereum futures ETF, initially earmarked for an October 11 launch, now stands at the cusp of a probable postponement due to the shutdown. It’s also noteworthy that, as of September 20, 2023, Grayscale embarked on another quest, tendering an application to create an Ethereum Futures ETF.