Crypto ETP Applications Hit 155, Set to Reach 200 Next Year

Senior Bloomberg ETF analyst Eric Balchunas recently revealed new data shared by Wu Blockchain. There are now 155 crypto exchange-traded product (ETP) applications tracking 35 different digital assets. He also expects this number to grow to 200 within the next 12 months. This shows how quickly traditional finance is starting to accept crypto as a serious investment option.

Growing Interest Across Major Cryptos

According to Balchunas, some of the most popular ETP filings are focused on Solana (SOL), Bitcoin (BTC), and XRP, each with more than 20 applications. Meanwhile, Ethereum (ETH) and basket ETPs, which include multiple cryptocurrencies, are also gaining fame, with their numbers crossing double digits.

This increase shows that crypto investment is spreading beyond Bitcoin. More investors now want to explore alternative digital assets with different use cases. Solana, for example, is known for its speed, while XRP focuses on cross-border payments.

Why Are So Many ETPs Being Filed Now?

There are many reasons for this surge in ETP filings.

First, regulations are becoming clearer in many countries. Governments and financial authorities are slowly creating frameworks that allow crypto-related products to launch more safely and transparently.

Second, institutional investors, like large funds and asset managers, are showing stronger interest in crypto. They want to invest in digital assets without the risks of directly holding or managing tokens. ETPs make this easier by tracking the price of cryptocurrencies through a regulated structure.

Third, competition among asset managers is heating up. Everyone wants to be among the first to launch an ETP on trending coins. This race for first-mover advantage is driving the flood of new applications.

What This Means for Investors

For retail and institutional investors, this growing list of ETPs means more choice and easier access to crypto markets. Instead of using crypto exchanges, investors will be able to buy and sell crypto-linked products directly through their brokerage accounts.

However, more options can also mean more confusion. Therefore, investors will need to understand what each ETP tracks and whether it fits their risk level. Not all coins have strong liquidity or clear regulatory approval, which could affect performance.

Another factor to watch is regulatory approval. Many of the current applications are still waiting for the green light. Only a portion will likely make it to the market, depending on how authorities respond to the rising number of filings.

Challenges Still Ahead

Although excitement is high, not every crypto ETP will succeed. Some tokens may face legal or technical issues. Others may struggle to attract investors once launched.

Also, fee competition could become intense. With over 150 filings, companies will try to attract customers through lower costs, which could reduce the profits. The key challenge now is not only getting approval but also earning investor trust.

A Sign of a Maturing Market

Overall, the rise of crypto ETP applications is a sign that the market is becoming more mature and mainstream. A few years ago, crypto products were considered too risky for traditional investors. Today, they are getting a space along with stocks and bonds.

As Balchunas noted, the number of ETPs could reach 200 by next year. If that happens, 2026 could see a new wave of crypto investments entering regulated markets worldwide.