The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has recently seen a surge in ETF applications. In a notable move, Franklin Templeton has filed for a groundbreaking ETF focusing on Ethereum, raising intrigue as the industry anticipates impacts larger than those observed with Dogecoin or XRP. This development is set against a backdrop of evolving regulations and growing interest in cryptocurrency investment options.
A Multi-Cryptocurrency-Based ETF
For the first time, Franklin Templeton, a major player in the asset management industry, has submitted an application for a crypto index ETF. This financial instrument aims to provide investors with exposure to both Bitcoin and Ethereum within a single fund.
The fund’s allocation and balance are proposed to be evaluated and adjusted on a quarterly basis. Notably, Franklin Templeton is not the only manager entering this space; Bitwise also filed for a similar product earlier this year on January 31.
Importantly, additional cryptocurrencies could be considered for this ETF model. Franklin Templeton has indicated that they are exploring a similar model that would follow the approval of the Bitcoin/Ethereum ETF. However, regulations regarding altcoins must progress before these plans can be fully realized.
This potential for a new type of ETF represents a significant shift in how financial instruments might be offered to investors. Many asset managers are eager to create ETFs based on various categories of cryptocurrencies, such as AI-focused coins, memecoins, or major first-layer blockchains. However, the feasibility of these proposals remains to be seen.
Regulatory Progress at Different Speeds
In the United States, regulatory actions appear to be advancing at a disparate pace. While the current presidential administration under Donald Trump has expressed support for the digital asset sector, the actual regulations have not proceeded with equal urgency.
The market is looking for meaningful deregulatory actions and strategic reserves concerning cryptocurrencies. However, as of now, significant measures are still in the pipeline, with only one decree related to cryptocurrencies signed thus far.
As developments unfold, there is hope for index ETFs reflecting various categories of cryptocurrencies to emerge. Yet, it is challenging to envision this happening before seeing ETFs tied to essential altcoins such as Dogecoin, XRP, or Solana.
The future of cryptocurrencies, from a financial perspective, could usher in what some describe as a golden age, as stated by Trump’s crypto advisor. Nonetheless, patience will be required, as fulfilling promises will take time.
In the meantime, for those interested in indices, there is a current presale project offering an index on memecoins, labeled the Meme Index, which has garnered considerable attention from investors.
Disclaimer: Cryptocurrencies are a high-risk asset class. This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice. There is a potential for total capital loss.
Source: Reuters
Further Reading:
- The U.S. government’s crypto strategy disappoints the market
- What will be the next ETF to receive approval? Predictions are surprising
- XRP and Solana: ETFs expected as early as February?

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