Bitwise Predicts Over 100 Crypto ETFs in US by 2026

Asset manager Bitwise predicts more than 100 cryptocurrency-linked exchange-traded funds will launch in the United States by 2026, following recent regulatory changes by the Securities and Exchange Commission that streamline approvals for such products. The forecast, shared in a December post on X, anticipates a surge in offerings tied to various digital assets, building on the market's expansion since spot Bitcoin ETFs debuted in January 2024.

The pivotal development occurred in October 2025, when the SEC issued generic listing standards for commodity-based exchange-traded products, including those linked to cryptocurrencies. These rules eliminate the need for time-consuming individual 19b-4 filings, which previously could delay approvals by up to 240 days. Instead, exchanges can list qualifying products under a standardized framework, reducing legal hurdles and accelerating market entry. Bitwise described the shift as setting the stage for an "ETFpalooza," a term highlighting the expected influx after years of regulatory resistance.

This evolution traces back to a decade of stalled applications. Spot Bitcoin ETFs finally launched in early 2024 after repeated rejections,...