The approval of 11 bitcoin exchange-traded funds (BTC ETFs) by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has markedly increased bitcoin trading activity. The first day of spot bitcoin ETF trading witnessed approximately 700,000 transactions with a cumulative trading volume of $4.33 billion. Grayscale’s bitcoin ETF contributed $2.1 billion, while BlackRock’s fund added another $1 billion. This surge is seen as a precursor to bitcoin’s anticipated rise to $50,000 by April 2024.

On January 10, 2024, the SEC sanctioned the introduction of 11 BTC ETFs, a significant regulatory development promoting mainstream investment in digital currency. This decision, coming after a decade of regulatory hesitance, simplifies cryptocurrency investment for regular investors and is expected to fuel bitcoin’s growth. These spot bitcoin ETFs offer direct bitcoin exposure without the need for actual ownership, simplifying the investment process.

Kar Yong Ang, an analyst at Octa, notes that while spot bitcoin ETFs are beneficial for investors, they differ from direct bitcoin purchases. These ETFs don’t provide direct bitcoin ownership, and financial firms levy fees for trading and managing these ETFs. In contrast, direct bitcoin purchases via brokers incur only transaction fees, without any management costs.

The debut of spot bitcoin ETFs is anticipated to channel billions into bitcoin, enhancing accessibility and appeal for investors. This increase in demand is likely to elevate bitcoin’s value, stimulating further investment and interest. Additionally, the entry of established financial entities with new offerings may fast-track regulatory frameworks that aim to reduce fraud and standardize cryptocurrency for investments, payments, and business transactions.

The initial trading day of these ETFs was significant, with $4.33 billion in trading volume, half of which originated from Grayscale’s bitcoin ETF. Bitcoin’s price neared $49,000 but didn’t sustain that level, as some investors chose to secure profits, temporarily dampening the price increase. However, the long-term trend remains positively inclined. The inflow of institutional capital is expected to gradually enhance bitcoin’s value.

According to Kar Yong Ang of Octa, the current price consolidation of bitcoin offers a promising base for future gains. Investors are advised to seize buying opportunities ahead of the upcoming bitcoin halving event in early April. Ang forecasts that bitcoin could exceed the critical $50,000 mark by the end of April 2024.

Since 2011, Octa, an international online trading broker, has been offering commission-free access to global financial markets, serving clients in 180 countries with over 42 million trading accounts. The company provides free educational webinars, articles, and analytical tools to assist clients in achieving their investment objectives.

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Recognized with over 60 awards since its inception, Octa has been honored with titles such as ‘Best Educational Broker 2023’ by Global Forex Awards and ‘Best Global Broker Asia 2022’ by International Business Magazine