Gary Gensler issues crypto warning amid Bitcoin ETF decision
SEC Chairman Gary Gensler’s recent crypto warnings coincide with major asset managers filing for Bitcoin ETF approval, signaling regulatory scrutiny.
SEC Chairman Gary Gensler recently delivered a series of warnings through a Twitter thread, urging potential investors in crypto assets to be mindful of the risks and regulatory landscape.
In his thread, Gensler stated, “Those offering crypto asset investments/services may not be complying w/ applicable law, including federal securities laws.” He emphasized that investors in crypto asset securities might be deprived of key information and essential protections.
While Gensler’s thread did not explicitly address the pending Bitcoin ETF proposals, its timing raised eyebrows in the crypto community. This came just hours after major asset managers, including BlackRock, ARK 21Shares, VanEck, and others, filed amended S-1 forms, seen as a potential final move before SEC approval.
The SEC’s decision hinges on amended 19b-4 forms filed by exchanges like Nasdaq, NYSE, and CBOE. If approved, trading can commence parallel with the effectiveness of the S-1 forms. A decision is anticipated in the coming days, notably due to the Jan. 10 deadline for the SEC’s response to applications such as Cathie Wood’s ARK Investment and 21Shares.
Despite the speculation surrounding the imminent decision, Gensler’s recent comments did not offer any explicit insights into his stance on Bitcoin ETFs. Many on X assume that Gensler’s warning of investing in crypto could mean that the Bitcoin ETFs will be approved very soon.