$ETH: Prominent Analyst Says the U.S. SEC Approving Spot Ether ETFs Is ‘Not Even Remotely Priced In’

As an experienced macroeconomic and crypto analyst, I have closely followed the developments regarding spot Ethereum ETF approvals by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Until recently, my pessimistic outlook was based on the SEC’s historical stance on these proposals. However, recent rumors of a potential shift in the SEC’s approach have led me to reevaluate my perspective.


On May 21, 2024, Alex Krüger, a renowned macroeconomist and crypto analyst, shared fresh perspectives on the SEC’s possible approval of spot Ethereum ETFs via social media platform X (previously Twitter). Krüger, who is the founder of Aike Capital, presented an in-depth examination of the shifting attitudes within the cryptocurrency sector.

As an analyst, I’ve been skeptical about the SEC approving any spot Ethereum ETFs this year or in the near future, up until recently. However, new developments have led me to reevaluate my perspective. Specifically, on May 20, 2024, Bloomberg ETF analysts Eric Balchunas and James Seyffart raised their estimated chances of SEC approval for spot Ethereum ETFs from 25% to 75%. This shift was due to rumors emerging that the SEC might be reconsidering its position, potentially influenced by political factors.

Balchunas announced new odds regarding X, explaining that these changes were driven by afternoon discussions suggesting a potential shift in the SEC’s stance on this contentious issue. This surprise turn of events has left market players rushing to reposition themselves, as they had previously believed that ETF approvals would be rejected.

Revised: JSeyff and I have raised our estimation of Ether ETF acceptance chances to 75% (previously at 25%). We’ve picked up signals today suggesting that the SEC might be reconsidering its stance on this contentious issue, prompting a flurry of activity among those who had anticipated rejection.

— Eric Balchunas (@EricBalchunas) May 20, 2024

In Krüger’s assessment, he recognized the possible influence of these rumors. He admitted that his original assumption was different from this acknowledgment.

    Bitcoin rising significantly by the end of the year.Ethereum underperforming due to the expected rejection of spot ETH ETF proposals by the SEC.Ethereum outperforming post the U.S. presidential elections in November 2024, driven by a potential change in SEC leadership and subsequent approval of spot ETH ETFs in 2025.

As a researcher, I’ve been closely following the developments surrounding Ethereum and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The latest news suggests that an SEC approval, which could potentially come as soon as this week, might expedite various timelines related to Ethereum. It is important to note that the current market conditions have not fully factored in this approval, meaning that Ethereum’s price could experience a significant surge if the approval were granted.

Krüger pointed out that the recent market fluctuations were mainly caused by investors rebalancing their portfolios and covering their short positions. The unexpected announcement of an SEC approval had taken many by surprise, leading Krüger to anticipate substantial investments in Ethereum if approved. This influx could potentially propel Ethereum’s price to new record highs (ATHs).

As a researcher studying the cryptocurrency market, I would like to emphasize the significance of not underestimating Ethereum’s potential for approval. Such a decision could potentially boost bullish sentiment and make Ethereum take the lead in the market. Although we witnessed a rally today, it is important to note that ETH/BTC is still down year-to-date. This suggests that there is still room for further growth in the Ethereum market.

Krüger also touched on the political dynamics influencing the SEC’s stance. He suggested that the seeming shift in the SEC’s approach might be politically driven, possibly influenced by the upcoming elections and the need to counteract former President Donald Trump’s recent pro-crypto stance.

If the SEC were to dismiss the proposed spot Ethereum ETFS, a situation he currently considers unfavorable, the financial markets could be in for some substantial distress. Therefore, it is imperative that traders remain vigilant and keep abreast of the latest developments until the SEC renders its decision on May 23rd.

In my analysis, my primary hypothesis has been:

— Alex Krüger (@krugermacro) May 21, 2024

As an analyst, I delve into the political underpinnings influencing the SEC’s evolving stance on cryptocurrencies. Based on my research, I hypothesize that this apparent shift in the SEC’s approach might be instigated by prominent Democratic party members, possibly influenced by the upcoming elections. This change could represent a calculated move from the Democrats to avoid being perceived as anti-crypto in light of former President Trump’s recent advocacy for digital currencies.

There are differing viewpoints, but I strongly suspect that the apparent shift in position by the SEC was influenced by political factors. This change may have originated from the upper echelons of the Democratic Party and could be connected to upcoming elections. The unexpected endorsement of cryptocurrency by former President Trump might have compelled this response.

— Alex Krüger (@krugermacro) May 21, 2024

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2024-05-22 17:12