After the crypto hype of 2017, a lot of newly-arrived crypto enthusiasts were caught off-guard by the price crash and bear market that took over in 2018. One month after another, investors were waiting for things to change, and for another bull run to take place. Unfortunately, this did not happen in 2018, and while the year’s final days were seemingly stable, the rally everyone wanted to see has failed to arrive.
However, crypto investors remain optimistic, with many of them hoping to see some changes arrive in 2019. There are rather great expectations of this year, especially since the last one failed to deliver. However, many are interested in what exactly is to be expected in this year, which is what we will talk about today.
Bitcoin ETF approval
The US SEC’s decision regarding Bitcoin ETFs was one of the most anticipated events throughout 2018. Sadly, the decision constantly got delayed, and the SEC never actually provided an answer. The last delay has pushed the decision into 2019, and it is now expected to arrive on February 27.
Historically, the SEC was never ready to approve Bitcoin ETF, and many believe that the delays came due to the fact that the market was not ready for then in 2018. This is backed by the fact that the SEC rejected multiple application throughout the year. VanEck and SolidX submitted the one currently waiting for approval, and the crypto community believes that this one might have better chances than the others.
If it happens and the SEC reaches a positive decision, it is expected that institutional investors will start investing into the crypto space through ETFs, as they will allow crypto investments without the need to actually hold any coins.
The launch of Bakkt
Another thing that was supposed to arrive in 2018 but got delayed is a highly anticipated Bitcoin futures exchange called Bakkt. Bakkt is a project that the entire crypto community is supporting and expecting for a long time. The official launch is scheduled for January 24th, which is less than a week away at this point.
The project got a lot of attention from institutions as well, and it managed to secure $182 million in funding. Furthermore, it was openly supported by many reputable firms, such as Microsoft, Starbucks, Galaxy Digital, and many others.
The exchange’s focus is to be on physically delivered Bitcoin futures contracts, which is another thing that might attract institutions to the crypto space. While it might be extremely beneficial for the crypto world, the current issue is that the exchange has yet to receive launch permission. Due to the US government shutdown, the regulators cannot provide a “green light,” and the exchange’s launch date will likely get postponed yet again as a result. Even so, it will almost certainly go live at some point in 2019, which will be a big thing for digital currencies.
Bringing crypto regulations
Crypto regulations are essential in order for cryptos to achieve the next step in their evolution. They can bring greater security to space, minimize the risks, and introduce at least some levels of stability. However, there are multiple obstacles when it comes to the creation of a proper regulatory framework.
Countries around the world have had their regulators work on coming up with guidelines for the crypto space. This turned out to be extremely difficult due to the lack of understanding the crypto world, market’s constant shifts, and changes, as well as the fact that cryptos are international, and no two countries in the world are trying to regulate cryptos in the same way.
Even so, the dire need for regulations may end up inspiring some sort of a solution for these issues, and many are hoping to see it happen in 2019.
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Disclaimer: This article should not be taken as, and is not intended to provide, investment advice. Global Coin Report and/or its affiliates, employees, writers, and subcontractors are cryptocurrency investors and from time to time may or may not have holdings in some of the coins or tokens they cover. Please conduct your own thorough research before investing in any cryptocurrency and read our full disclaimer.
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