Bitwise Anticipates ‘ETF-palooza’ as Over 100 Crypto-Linked ETFs Set to Debut in the U.S. by 2026

Bitwise, a U.S. asset management firm, forecasts a significant surge in cryptocurrency-linked exchange-traded funds (ETFs), believing that over 100 such ETFs may launch in the United States by 2026. This projection is fueled by new regulatory measures that have improved clarity and reduced barriers for issuers.

Key Takeaways

Bitwise predicts over 100 new crypto-linked ETFs will be launched in the U.S. by 2026.
A recent shift in regulatory stance has enabled a faster ETF approval process.
The introduction of standardized listing requirements heralds a new era for crypto ETFs.
The market is evolving from single-asset to diversified, theme-based, and yield-oriented ETFs.
Institutional demand plays a crucial role in the growth of the crypto ETF market.

Solana and XRP ETFs

Regulatory Changes Set the Stage for Growth

Bitwise projects a significant transformation in the cryptocurrency ETF landscape, highlighting that U.S. regulatory advancements are paving the way for this influx. In a recent post on X, Bitwise characterized the current changes as an “ETF-palooza,” indicating a substantial move from a period of strict regulation to one where digital asset access for institutions is expanding.

A pivotal moment occurred in October 2025, as the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) released new, generic listing standards specifically for crypto-linked ETFs. This update allows issuers to introduce their products under a uniform framework, streamlining the process compared to obtaining individual approvals for each fund.

By simplifying approvals and minimizing legal complexities, this change is expected to ease the path for asset managers aiming to create ETFs that are associated with a multitude of digital assets and various crypto strategies. Bitwise remarked, “A clearer regulatory roadmap in 2026 is why we see the stage being set,” referencing the ripple effects of recent regulatory updates and court decisions.

Expanding from Bitcoin to a Diverse Crypto Offering

Bitwise’s prediction coincides with rapid advancements in the U.S. crypto ETF market. Following years of rejection, spot Bitcoin ETFs made their entrance in early 2024. By 2025, the range of offerings broadened to include ETFs linked to Solana, aided further by the new listing standards that alleviated regulatory obstacles. Moreover, Bitwise anticipates that ETFs focusing on XRP and Dogecoin could emerge before 2026, illustrating rising confidence among issuers regarding the market's appetite for a wider array of crypto options.

If these predictions materialize, the ETF landscape will likely evolve from single-asset products into more complex, theme-based, and yield-oriented investment solutions.

The Role of Institutional Demand in ETF Growth

Market analysts believe that the heightened interest from institutions is a key motivator behind the expected rise in crypto ETFs. These funds provide a regulated, easily accessible entry point into digital assets for institutional investors, such as pension funds and wealth management firms, which might be hesitant to hold cryptocurrencies directly.

By integrating crypto exposure within established market frameworks, ETFs address longstanding concerns related to custody, compliance, and risk management that typically deter institutional investors. According to Bitwise, the competitive landscape among issuers may become increasingly intense as companies strive to gain an early advantage in niche areas, potentially leading to lower fees and greater product innovation.

Bitwise's Projections for Bitcoin Prices in 2026

Bitwise’s Chief Investment Officer, Matt Hougan, alongside Grayscale Research, predicts that Bitcoin (BTC) will surpass its previous all-time highs in 2026, defying traditional expectations of a market pullback in that year. They forecast that an influx of institutional capital and clearer regulations will drive Bitcoin beyond its customary four-year cycle. Historically, Bitcoin has adhered to this cycle, characterized by three years of price growth followed by sharp downturns.

As we approach a new era in cryptocurrency investment, these evolving dynamics signal exciting opportunities for both new and seasoned investors.