Foreword: METI Advisory wrote this report for SEBA Bank AG. Abstract: The US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has rejected the last outstanding Bitcoin (BTC) ETF proposal. It was the ninth rejection in a row. The decision taken by the SEC attests to the controversial decision-making process within the SEC, which contrasts with the pragmatic, inclusive and innovation-friendly approach taken by other jurisdictions such as Switzerland. Furthermore, it stifles financial innovation and delays the adoption of cryptocurrencies in the country, promoting an unregulated perimeter. The approval of the first BTC ETF emerged as a watershed moment for cryptofinance adoption in the USA.
During February 2020, regulators around the globe multiplied their pronouncements and initiatives in the area of stablecoins during February 2020. Stablecoins are seen as a promising way to enhance the cross-border payment system and remedy related inefficiencies. However, the pronouncements also indicate that the approval of any stablecoins will be subject to strict evaluation and approval criteria, including KYC and AML aspects.
USA once again rejects an ETF on bitcoin (March 2020)
Mattia Rattaggi