- US congressmen Mike Flood (R-NE) and Wiley Nickel (D-NC) are urging the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to approve options trading on Bitcoin (BTC) exchange-traded funds (ETFs).
- The SEC is currently seeking public comment on rule changes that would allow options trading on Bitcoin funds.
- Several exchanges, including Cboe, BOX, MIAX, Nasdaq ISE, and NYSE American, have filed with the SEC to offer options trading on the new Bitcoin ETFs.
US congressmen are urging the SEC to greenlight options trading on Bitcoin ETFs, a move that could significantly impact the cryptocurrency market.
US Congressmen Advocate for Bitcoin Options Trading
Representatives Mike Flood (R-NE) and Wiley Nickel (D-NC) have reportedly sent a letter to SEC chair Gary Gensler, urging him to approve options trading on Bitcoin ETFs. The congressmen argue that this move is crucial for the protection of investors that the SEC seeks to safeguard.
SEC’s Response to the Proposal
The SEC has yet to act on the proposals submitted by several exchanges, including Cboe, BOX, MIAX, Nasdaq ISE, and NYSE American, all of which are seeking to offer options trading on the new Bitcoin ETFs. The agency is currently soliciting public comment on rule changes that would permit this type of trading. The SEC has stated that any proposed rule changes should align with the provisions in the Securities Exchange Act that aim to protect investors and the public interest.
Impact on the Crypto Market
If approved, options trading on Bitcoin ETFs could significantly impact the cryptocurrency market. It would provide investors with a new way to speculate on the price of Bitcoin, potentially increasing its liquidity and volatility. However, it could also introduce new risks, particularly for inexperienced investors who may not fully understand the complexities of options trading.
Conclusion
The push for options trading on Bitcoin ETFs represents another step towards the mainstream acceptance of cryptocurrencies. However, the SEC’s decision will ultimately depend on whether it believes this move aligns with its mandate to protect investors and the public interest. Regardless of the outcome, this development highlights the growing interest in and recognition of cryptocurrencies within the traditional financial sector.
