Bits + Bips: Is US Politics Driving the ETH ETF Approval? - Ep. 649
May 21, 2024
auto_awesome
Cryptocurrency experts James Seyffart, Alex Kruger, and Joe McCann discuss the sudden shift in chances for an ETH spot ETF approval, potential impact on US politics, institutional demand for ether ETFs, and the role of stablecoins in strengthening US power globally. They explore the influence of political pressure, debate on low float/high FDV coins, and predict the approval of new crypto spot ETFs.
Political motivations may drive reversal in ETH ETF approval odds.
US elections may be impacted by upcoming ETH ETF approval.
Stablecoins strengthen USD hegemony and influence global politics.
Deep dives
Discussion on Ethereum ETFs Decision
The episode delves into the surprising political decision regarding the approval of Ethereum ETFs. Despite initial pessimism, the SEC's sudden engagement and request for rule changes led to a shift in odds in favor of approval, causing widespread market shock and volatility.
Implications of Biden Administration's Influence
Speculation arises on the potential sway of the Biden administration on the SEC's decision, hinting at political motivations tied to votes and market implications. Insights suggest a strategic retreat from possible denial to avoid repercussions.
Comparisons with Previous Bitcoin Spot ETF Approval
Discussions on the Ethereum ETF approval process highlight distinct differences from past Bitcoin-related approvals. Involvement from different SEC divisions and the need for multiple approvals indicate a unique and complex path for Ethereum ETFs.
Financial Market Reactions and Premiums
Analysis of financial market reactions to the Ethereum ETF news, focusing on the Grayscale Solana Trust premium as a barometer of investor sentiment. Premium fluctuations reflect market enthusiasm and potential trends for upcoming ETF approvals.
Future ETF Prospects and Asset Considerations
Anticipation grows regarding potential ETFs for other cryptocurrencies like Doge, Solana, or Litecoin. Insights suggest a nuanced assessment based on regulatory frameworks, future futures contracts, and institutional involvement in shaping the cryptocurrency market.
Wrap-up and Invitation to Consensus Event
The episode concludes with a look at future episodes post ETF decision outcomes. Expectations for denial or approval orders drive anticipation, alongside plans to attend the Consensus event for further discussions and interactions.
With ETH spot ETFs now more likely than ever, Bits + Bips hosts James Seyffart, Alex Kruger, and Joe McCann delve into the reasons behind this shift, surmising that the reversal may have come from powers above the SEC—perhaps in the Biden administration.
The three hosts surmise that ETH will likely reach all-time highs, discuss how this changes their election trading strategy and ponder where there is enough institutional demand for ether ETFs. They also look at whether the potential approval could sway the US elections.
Plus, they share insights into stablecoins and how they strengthen the US’s political power globally, dive into the debate on low float/high FDV coins, and also take a peek at what they think could be the potential next crypto spot ETF.
Show highlights:
Why the chances of an ETH ETF suddenly reversed
What the "Coinbase premium" is and how Joe uses it for trading
Why Alex believes that ETH is heading to all-time highs
Whether there's institutional demand for spot ether ETFs
The political pressure that led to this change
Whether the ETH ETF will change the course of the US elections
The broader macroeconomics conditions and how Alex thinks to trade the US elections
How US dollar-pegged stablecoins promote USD hegemony
The debate about high FDV, low float coins, and whether there is a solution
Whether new crypto spot ETFs will be approved
Hosts:
James Seyffart, Research Analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence