Market downturn can't stop it! Cryptocurrency ETF applications are intensifying, and institutions are still betting on long-term growth

Despite the ongoing weakness in the cryptocurrency market, ETF development around digital assets has not slowed down. Several asset management firms are still submitting new product applications to regulators, demonstrating that institutional long-term demand for digital asset funds remains confident.

This month, Bitwise Asset Management submitted an ETF application related to Uniswap, and ProShares also plans to launch leveraged Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs. Meanwhile, 21Shares resubmitted fund proposals based on Ondo and Sei, indicating that these projects are steadily progressing. Industry insiders believe these moves reflect issuers positioning themselves early during the market downturn, aiming to gain a first-mover advantage when sentiment recovers.

Strategas Chief ETF Strategist Todd Sohn told Bloomberg that institutions like 21Shares and Bitwise still see long-term potential in cryptocurrencies, but short-term weak performance may put some pressure on capital inflows. Currently, over 140 crypto-themed ETFs are trading in the U.S. market, with about 10 more expected to launch this year, and there is even potential for products like BNB staking ETFs in the future.

However, price declines have significantly impacted investor sentiment. After last October’s sell-off, Bitcoin has fallen again, dragging down a series of small and mid-cap tokens. Tight liquidity and reduced risk appetite have led some investors to temporarily exit the market.

Data from Glassnode shows that the average purchase cost for U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs is around $84,100, while current prices hover near $66,000, causing many holders to be in unrealized losses. In recent months, Ethereum ETFs have experienced outflows exceeding $1.5 billion, while Bitcoin ETF outflows have surpassed $3.5 billion.

Nevertheless, ETF issuers continue to expand their product lines, indicating they are not shaken by short-term volatility. Market observers believe that as regulatory frameworks become clearer and institutional participation increases, cryptocurrency ETFs will remain an important bridge connecting traditional finance with digital assets.