Bitwise Files 11 New Crypto ETF Applications With SEC, Expanding Altcoin Investment Access

Crypto asset manager Bitwise has indeed submitted 11 new applications for cryptocurrency exchange-traded funds (ETFs) to the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

The regulations, filed on December 30, constitute one of the largest single-day crypto ETF registrations ever and mark the increasing institutional interest in token-specific investment products.

By way of the proposed funds "strategy" ETFs, they are meant to monitor a wide variety of blockchain protocols.

As per the filings, each ETF is permitted to hold up to 60% of its total assets in the cryptocurrency it tracks, with the rest invested in exchange-traded products (ETPs) and derivatives such as futures and options.

This hybrid model seeks to provide a combination of direct exposure, regulatory compliance, and liquidity considerations.

Broad Coverage Across Crypto Sectors

Bitwise’s proposed funds target decentralized finance protocols like Aave and Uniswap, infrastructure-focused networks such as NEAR and Sui, and Layer-2 scaling solutions including Starknet. 

Privacy-focused exposure is also included through a Zcash-focused ETF. At the same time, emerging niches are represented by products tied to Bittensor’s AI-driven marketplace, Ethena’s synthetic dollar model, Hyperliquid, Canton Network, and the TRON blockchain.

Each fund is designed to maintain at least 80% exposure to its designated token, related exchange-traded products, or derivatives. 

The filings also allow for the limited use of Cayman Islands subsidiaries to manage tax efficiency and derivative exposure.

Regulatory Momentum Accelerates ETF Launches

The SEC’s introduction of generic listing standards for crypto ETFs in late 2025 significantly reduced approval bottlenecks, allowing asset managers to bring products to market more quickly. 

Bitwise’s new ETFs are expected to become effective roughly 75 days after filing and are slated to trade on NYSE Arca.

Custody and administration responsibilities are split among established financial and crypto-native firms. 

Bank of New York Mellon will handle traditional securities custody, while digital assets will be secured through Coinbase Custody Trust Company and BitGo Europe GmbH.

Risks and Market Implications

Despite the professional infrastructure, the funds carry notable risks. Regulatory uncertainty remains around the classification of specific tokens, which could impact fund operations if legal interpretations change. 

The reliance on European ETPs introduces additional risks related to issuer creditworthiness and valuation timing differences between markets.

Also Read: US Spot Crypto ETFs See Biggest Inflow in 35 Sessions

Bitwise’s Long-Term View

The company believes institutional participation, declining interest rates, and reduced leverage-related volatility could lead Bitcoin and the overall cryptocurrency markets to new heights in the next few years.

By making these applications, Bitwise is clearly positioning itself as the leader in the growing crypto ETF market and indicating that regulated access to altcoins could soon be mainstream.