Cboe Aims to Break Ground with SEC Approval for Revolutionary Merger of ETFs and Mutual Funds

Cboe Global Markets has submitted a proposal to the SEC seeking approval for a rule change that would combine exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and mutual funds. The move, if approved, would allow issuers to offer multi-share class funds, potentially boosting the growth of ETFs and their assets. The rule change could also facilitate the addition of Bitcoin (BTC) ETF shares to mutual fund portfolios, providing investors with diversified exposure to digital assets.

Cboe Seeks SEC's Approval for Groundbreaking Rule Change: Combining ETFs and Mutual Funds

In a move that could revolutionize the investment landscape, Cboe Global Markets has filed a request with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to approve a rule change that would allow issuers to merge exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and mutual funds. This proposed rule, if approved, would grant issuers the flexibility to combine similar mutual funds and ETFs into a single investment vehicle, offering investors a comprehensive and versatile investment solution.

According to Reuters, Cboe submitted a 19b-4 form outlining their proposal, which seeks to introduce a multi-share class fund structure. This structure would enable issuers to add ETF share classes to existing mutual funds, blending the distinct characteristics of both investment types.

"This rule change could unleash a surge in the number of ETFs and their assets," said Todd Sohn, an ETF analyst at Strategas LLC, in an interview with Reuters. "It presents a compelling opportunity for issuers to expand their offerings and cater to the diverse needs of investors."

Mutual funds and ETFs, while sharing similarities, have distinct operations and regulatory frameworks. Mutual funds are typically traded at the end of the trading day based on their net asset value (NAV), which is calculated after the market closes. ETFs, on the other hand, trade continuously throughout the trading day on exchanges, offering real-time pricing similar to stocks.

The proposed rule change holds significant implications for the cryptocurrency market. If approved, it could open the door for the inclusion of Bitcoin (BTC) ETF shares within mutual funds, providing investors with exposure to digital assets through a familiar investment vehicle.

The proposed system is not entirely novel. Since 2001, Vanguard Group has employed a patented investment strategy that has allowed for a unique "share class" structure within their ETFs. This structure enabled Vanguard to offer ETFs as a share class of their existing mutual funds, allowing both funds to share the same underlying portfolio. However, Vanguard's patent on this share class concept expired in May 2023.

Following Vanguard's lead, eight asset managers, including Dimensional Fund Advisors, Morgan Stanley, and Fidelity, have filed for regulatory approval to replicate the model. T. Rowe Price and JPMorgan have also expressed interest in using a similar approach.

Cboe's application to the SEC will undergo a thorough review process. The SEC has 240 days to approve or reject the proposal. If approved, this rule change could have a profound impact on the investment industry, creating new opportunities for issuers to provide innovative and tailored investment products.

Bloomberg ETF analyst Eric Balchunas noted that the filing serves as a catalyst for the SEC to respond to industry applications in this area. It also highlights the growing appetite among investors for investment vehicles that combine the liquidity and flexibility of ETFs with the diversification and long-term value of mutual funds.

The North American ETF market is projected to experience exponential growth, with Mordor Intelligence estimating it will surpass $8 trillion in 2024 and expand to $15.52 trillion by 2029, representing a compound annual growth rate of 14%. The proposed rule change by Cboe aligns with this growth trajectory, demonstrating the industry's commitment to innovation and meeting the evolving needs of investors.