Crypto investors and asset managers are eagerly awaiting the decision of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regarding several applications for the creation of spot Bitcoin ETFs. The approval of these applications could significantly increase the value of the cryptocurrency market, and this is expected to happen as early as next week.

For several applications, including those submitted by ARK Investment's Cathie Wood and 21Shares, the deadline is set for January 10. The SEC must express its position by this date. Last week, there was optimism in the market as exchanges actively submitted new Form 19b-4s for each proposed fund.

The crypto community and those outside it are closely monitoring updates on the SEC's website, where news will appear first. Before trading can begin, Form 19b-4s must be approved, and then Form S-1s must become "effective." Some asset managers have already declared their full readiness to start trading as soon as these conditions are met.

Representatives of five financial companies told Reuters that they discussed final changes in the Form S-1s with regulators and hope to receive approval by Tuesday evening or Wednesday of next week. This could mean the launch of a spot Bitcoin ETF by the end of the week.

In response to requests for comments on individual applications, an SEC representative said via email that they do not comment on specific cases. However, in general, if the Commission makes a statement of effectiveness, it will be reflected in the EDGAR system. Any decisions of the Commission on Form 19b-4s will be published on the SEC's website and then in the Federal Register.