In a move that has the potential to spark a new wave of cryptocurrency investment, Hong Kong has just opened its doors to applications for Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Even in light of China’s prohibitions on cryptocurrency, industry professionals in the gaming and cryptocurrency sectors predict approval as early as the end of June.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority and the Securities and Futures Commission both announced in December that they will be considering applications for spot cryptocurrency exchange-traded funds. If approved, these new ETFs would provide Hong Kong’s retail investors with a new way to engage with crypto assets.
Appropriation, according to experts, would occur before the end of June, which is when crypto spot ETNs would be introduced on the London Stock Exchange. The total effect would be limited, however, since these London-based securities would only be accessible to institutional investors.
Interestingly, the gaming and crypto communities may soon have access to more thrilling investment alternatives in the ever-changing cryptocurrency market if Hong Kong decides to start accepting spot Bitcoin ETFs.
The Obstacles
There are a few distinctive obstacles that Hong Kong spot Bitcoin ETFs must overcome, notwithstanding the advantages. At the end of the first quarter of 2023, the average daily trading volume in the United States was $166 billion, but in Asia it was just $20 billion, highlighting the fact that ETFs are a young market in the area.
Moreover, the Chinese government’s public security agency has been expanding its crackdown on cryptocurrency scams and money laundering groups. This persistent hostility to cryptocurrency might be another obstacle in the way of the licensing of exchange-traded funds in Hong Kong.
Anyone predicting a cryptocurrency market surge would undoubtedly hear people drawing parallels to the tulip bubble, the first known speculative bubble, which occurred in the late 17th century and was characterized by a dramatic increase in the price of flowers followed by a precipitous decline. Interestingly, tulip forwards contracts had more dramatic price swings than the spot price. Having spot Bitcoin ETFs accessible makes the tulip analogy less relevant if anything.
Due to the digital token’s 50% gain so far in 2024, which has outperformed other major assets, Bitcoin ETFs will further polarize opinions on cryptocurrencies. New digital services are popping up at a dizzying rate, making it unlikely that anybody will have a chance to take a deep breath and contemplate.
