A divided U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission cautiously heralded a new crypto era, on January 10, 2024, when it approved by a 3 to 2 vote multiple exchange-traded products that invest directly in bitcoin for listing and trading. To get to this point, the Commission followed a long and rocky road. While the Commission’s approval was a cause for celebration in crypto world, and, of course, with bitcoin funds in waiting, it also left many people wondering why this took so long, while others said that the SEC’s approval could sacrifice investor protection.

 In this episode of the Mutual Fund Minute, host and Sidley partner Jay Baris discusses the process that led up to this milestone and what it means for investors.