- ASX anticipates approving spot Bitcoin ETFs by the end of 2024.
- Australian ETF issuers, including BetaShares and VanEck, are actively pursuing crypto-based offerings.
- Australia’s robust pension market may drive substantial inflows into these ETFs.
- The ASX’s stringent custody standards make it an attractive listing venue for ETF issuers.
Australia is joining the global trend of embracing spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs), following in the footsteps of the US and Hong Kong. The Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) is primed to approve these ETFs, signaling a significant shift in the country’s approach to cryptocurrency investments.
Australia Embraces Spot Bitcoin ETFs
Australia is witnessing a surge of interest in spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs), following the success of similar offerings in the US and Hong Kong. The Australian Securities Exchange (ASX), a key player in the country’s financial landscape, is poised to approve the launch of these ETFs on its main board by the end of 2024, according to a recent report by Bloomberg.
Several organizations have submitted applications to the ASX, indicating a growing appetite for cryptocurrency investments among Australian investors. Among these applicants, Sydney-based BetaShares stands out, actively working towards launching its own spot Bitcoin ETF. The company’s confidence in the market is reflected in its reservation of ASX tickers for both spot Bitcoin and spot Ether ETFs.
Growing Acceptance and Market Potential
The success of Bitcoin ETFs in the US, which have amassed significant assets this year despite outflows from certain offerings, has bolstered confidence in the longevity of cryptocurrency as an asset class. Justin Arzadon, head of digital assets at BetaShares, highlights the increasing acceptance of cryptocurrencies and foresees substantial market potential for these ETFs, especially given Australia’s $2.3 trillion pension market.
VanEck, a prominent ETF provider with offerings in the US and Europe, has also resubmitted an application for spot Bitcoin ETFs in Australia. Jamie Hannah, deputy head of investments and capital markets for VanEck Australia, sees potential buyers in various segments, including self-managed super funds and financial advisers.
ASX: A Preferred Listing Venue
The ASX’s rigorous scrutiny over custody arrangements makes it an attractive listing venue for ETF issuers. BetaShares favors listing on the ASX due to its commitment to ensuring the secure custody of tokens, a crucial factor in cryptocurrency investments.
DigitalX Ltd., another player in the Australian market, has also thrown its hat into the ring, underscoring the growing recognition of cryptocurrencies as part of the financial infrastructure. CEO Lisa Wade believes Australians could allocate a significant portion of their portfolios to cryptocurrencies, further driving the growth of these ETFs in the country.