Monochrome Announces Strategic Partnership with Cboe Australia for Bitcoin ETF Listing

Australian asset manager Monochrome announced its strategic decision to list its flagship Bitcoin ETF (IBTC) on Cboe Australia in Q2 2024. The move aims to expand Monochrome's reach in the Asia-Pacific region and align with Cboe's established track record and commitment to innovation and safe market accessibility.

Australian Asset Manager Monochrome Announces Strategic Move to Cboe Australia for Bitcoin ETF Listing

In a significant development, Australian asset manager Monochrome has announced its intention to list its highly anticipated Bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF) on Cboe Australia in the second quarter of 2024. This strategic move underscores Monochrome's ambition to expand its reach within the Asia-Pacific region and capitalize on the growing demand for cryptocurrency investment products.

Regulatory Tailwinds Drive Monochrome's Decision

The announcement comes amidst a favorable regulatory landscape for crypto asset exchange-traded products in Australia. In July 2023, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) updated its regulatory framework to pave the way for the listing of such products. This regulatory green light has spurred a flurry of activity among asset managers eager to tap into the burgeoning crypto market.

Strategic Partnership with Cboe Australia

Monochrome's decision to list its Bitcoin ETF on Cboe Australia is a calculated move. Cboe Australia, part of the global Cboe Global Markets network, boasts robust trading volumes and a commitment to innovation in the digital asset space. This partnership aligns with Monochrome's strategic objectives and provides a platform for the successful launch of its Bitcoin ETF.

Navigating the Approval Process

It is important to note that the application process for listing an ETF in Australia differs from that of the United States. Australian firms must first obtain approval from the national regulator, ASIC, before applying to be listed on an exchange. Monochrome had initially planned to list its Bitcoin ETF on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX), which typically has higher trading volumes than Cboe Australia. However, ASX's approval process for Bitcoin ETFs has proven to be more protracted and complex, prompting Monochrome to explore alternative options.

Monochrome's Flagship Investment Product

Monochrome's Bitcoin ETF aims to provide investors with exposure to the flagship cryptocurrency while mitigating the risks associated with direct ownership. The fund will adopt a passive buy-and-hold strategy, eschewing short-term price speculation and derivatives. Monochrome emphasizes its collaboration with external businesses and technical expert advisors to ensure the fund's integrity and performance.

Potential for Regulatory Approval

If approved by ASIC, Monochrome's Bitcoin ETF would be the first of its kind in Australia. The fund's proposed launch date is subject to regulatory approvals, and its quotation will be conditioned by the market operator's discretion and regulatory compliance.

Growing Sentiment for Crypto Investment

The recent success of spot Bitcoin ETFs in the United States has bolstered investor confidence in crypto-based investment products. Asset management firms globally are eagerly awaiting regulatory approvals or updates to regulatory frameworks that would enable them to offer similar products in their respective jurisdictions.

Shift in Australian Attitudes towards Bitcoin

Notably, a recent study conducted by The Independent Reserve Cryptocurrency Index (IRCI) Australia 2024 revealed a significant shift in Australian attitudes towards Bitcoin following the approval and success of ETFs in the United States. The study found that 25% of Australians now view Bitcoin more favorably, including older Australians aged 55 and above. This change in perspective suggests a growing acceptance and understanding of Bitcoin and crypto investments among a broader demographic.

Conclusion

Monochrome's strategic move to list its Bitcoin ETF on Cboe Australia underscores the evolving regulatory landscape for crypto assets and the growing demand for investment products in this emerging asset class. If approved, Monochrome's Bitcoin ETF would mark a significant milestone in the Australian crypto market, providing investors with a convenient and regulated way to gain exposure to the world's leading cryptocurrency. The successful launch of such products could further drive the adoption and acceptance of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies within the broader Australian financial ecosystem.