Bitwise Projects Faster Expansion of Crypto ETPs by 2026

Jimmy Aki
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On December 16, Bitwise researcher Ryan Rasmussen gave a bullish view on where the crypto market may be headed next. He said the number of crypto exchange-traded products (ETPs) is expected to accelerate forward at an unusually fast pace in 2026.

More Than 100 Crypto ETPs Expected to Debut in Various Forms

Rasmussen shared this view on the Bankless podcast. He said over 100 new crypto ETPs could be introduced next year.

This rapid growth is being driven by clearer regulations and increased investor demand.

The Bitwise researcher explained that these crypto ETPs will not follow a single template. Instead, they are expected to span a wide range of structures and strategies. This includes spot crypto products, index-based funds, equity-linked offerings, smart beta approaches, and momentum-focused vehicles.

Rasmussen based his prediction on recent regulatory developments in the U.S.

On September 17, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) introduced generic listing standards, which extend the existing exchange-traded fund (ETF) framework under Rule 6c-11 to crypto ETPs.

The rule was originally designed to simplify the listing process for traditional ETFs. Its expansion now gives crypto ETP issuers a clearer and more predictable path to market.

Rather than the usual long review periods that could stretch up to 240 days, issuers now have defined criteria to follow. If those requirements are met, a crypto ETP can move forward without prolonged delays.

Market data shows that momentum is already building. A Fineqia International report showed that the number of crypto ETPs available globally has surpassed 300.

With new listing standards in place, that figure is expected to rise quickly. Investors will be able to choose exposure based on strategy, risk tolerance, or market outlook.

Several analysts also see the rise of crypto ETPs tied to altcoins as a bullish development. These products are expected to provide exposure beyond Bitcoin, thereby opening the door to various sectors and themes within the cryptocurrency market.

Could Crypto ETFs Outperform DATs and Bonds?

Crypto ETFs are part of the broader crypto ETPs offering that provides investors a less risky way to gain exposure to digital assets. Their appeal lies in simplicity, transparency, and ease of access, especially when compared with more complex investment vehicles.

Last month, Bitwise Chief Investment Officer Matt Hougan raised concerns about the long-term competitiveness of Digital Asset Treasuries (DATs). He argued that without clear strategies, DATs may struggle to compete with crypto ETFs that offer similar exposure with fewer layers.

Hougan’s reasoning is based on a simple comparison. If a treasury’s primary activity is holding bitcoin, investors may see greater value in a Bitcoin ETF that delivers direct exposure without additional operational complexity.

Investor data suggests this shift may already be underway.

A recent report from Schwab Asset Management shows that 52% of respondents plan to invest in U.S. equities, while 45% expressed interest in buying a crypto ETF.

Notably, that level of interest places crypto ETFs on the same footing as U.S. bond ETFs.

Bond ETFs have traditionally been viewed as lower-risk investments and have long played a stabilizing role in diversified portfolios.

About Jimmy Aki PRO INVESTOR

Based in the UK, Jimmy is an economic researcher with outstanding hands-on and heads-on experience in Macroeconomic finance analysis, forecasting and planning. He has honed his skills having worked cross-continental as a finance analyst, which gives him inter-cultural experience. He currently has a strong passion for regulation and macroeconomic trends as it allows him peek under the global bonnet to see how the world works.