Crypto ETPs to enter ‘cheesecake factory’ era by 2026

The number of crypto exchange-traded products is expected to surge in 2026, with more than 100 new launches forecast as US regulators streamline approval processes. Bitwise researcher Ryan Rasmussen said the market is set to accelerate rapidly following recent policy changes.

Rasmussen pointed to new generic listing standards issued by the US Securities and Exchange Commission in October, which removed the need for individual approvals for qualifying crypto ETPs. He said the move effectively provides a clear framework for issuers, cutting approval timelines that previously stretched for months.

The expected wave of products is likely to include spot crypto funds, index-based offerings, equities-linked products and a range of smart beta and momentum strategies. Market participants see the expansion as a potential catalyst for increased interest in altcoins, particularly if ETFs begin tracking assets beyond Bitcoin and Ether.

Rasmussen said investor choice has long been limited, noting that despite nearly 15 years since the first Bitcoin ETF filing, only a small number of crypto ETPs exist today. He likened the coming expansion to a “cheesecake factory” menu, offering investors a wide array of options for portfolio allocation.

Other analysts agree the SEC’s new rules could trigger a wave of launches, with some suggesting the changes may significantly benefit newer digital assets by reducing approval times from years to months.

At the time of reporting, Bitcoin price was $87,373.41.