In a noteworthy and pivotal development within the domain of cryptocurrency and financial markets, the Invesco Galaxy Bitcoin ETF, more commonly recognized as BTCO, has marked its grand debut on the official website of the Depository Trust and Clearing Corporation (DTCC).

This recent addition has sent ripples of excitement and anticipation throughout the realms of investment and cryptocurrency enthusiasts, igniting discussions and speculations in the process. However, it is of utmost importance to underscore that this inclusion on the hallowed DTCC’s website should not be construed as a definitive harbinger of imminent approval for the much-anticipated ETF.

The momentous listing of BTCO on the DTCC’s website transpired within the past half dozen days, as evidenced by an insightful scrutiny conducted through the WayBack Machine, which unveiled the conspicuous absence of BTCO from the DTCC’s records as recently as October 25th. This development signifies a remarkable leap forward in the ETF’s application process, emblematic of the sustained and concerted efforts put forth by the asset management companies steering this initiative.

Nevertheless, it is imperative to reiterate that the mere presence of BTCO’s ticker symbol on the roster of “ETF Products” on the DTCC’s website should not be misconstrued as a guarantee of its forthcoming regulatory approval. A spokesperson from the DTCC has taken pains to elucidate that this practice is a standard protocol, dutifully employed by the DTCC to prepare for the hypothetical launch of a new ETF into the financial marketplace. The spokesperson, in no uncertain terms, has explicitly conveyed, “The appearance of an ETF on the list is not indicative of the outcome for any pending regulatory or other approval procedures.” This underscores the fact that the road to ETF approval is fraught with complexities, and this listing is but one step in a multifaceted process that is yet to unfold.

CFTC Awards $16 Million to Crypto Whistleblowers

In a parallel development, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) in the United States has granted a substantial sum of $16 million to whistleblowers this year. These individuals provided vital information that led to successful enforcement actions, with a significant majority of the tips focusing on the cryptocurrency sector. CFTC Commissioner Christy Goldsmith Romero, in an official statement released on October 31, acknowledged the prevalence of fraud and illicit activities in the cryptocurrency industry. She highlighted the essential role played by whistleblowers in uncovering wrongdoing in this area.

Two whistleblowers received a noteworthy combined reward of $15 million for their invaluable information, resulting in successful enforcement cases in September. While the statement did not disclose specific case details, Romero emphasized the indispensable contribution of whistleblowers in combating commodities fraud. She pointed out that these individuals help identify fraud, analyze crucial evidence, and ultimately save substantial Commission resources and time, enabling quicker action to prevent harm to customers.

Romero’s recognition of the CFTC’s Office of Customer Education and Outreach underscores the growing importance of educating the public about cryptocurrency-related fraud in today’s digital age. The widespread adoption of cryptocurrencies has led to more retail customers engaging in these financial transactions. Consequently, the CFTC has expanded its jurisdiction to cover a broader demographic, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance and comprehensive education.

Since its inception in 2014, the CFTC’s whistleblower program has awarded approximately $350 million in awards, resulting in over $3 billion in enforcement sanctions in whistleblower-initiated cases. Notably, in an April case involving Bitcoin fraud, the CFTC obtained a record $3.4 billion penalty payment, and in July, it was successful in its lawsuit against Digitex CEO Adam Todd, resulting in a $16 million penalty.