The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has reiterated its caution against FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) crypto investing just days before the anticipated approval of Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs). The regulatory body’s Office of Investor Education took to X (formerly Twitter) on Jan. 6 to warn retail investors about the inherent risks associated with digital assets, spanning meme stocks, cryptocurrencies, and nonfungible tokens (NFTs).
This “Say no, go to FOMO” advisory initially emerged on Jan. 23, 2021, amid a thriving crypto and equities bull market that witnessed surges in the prices of Bitcoin (BTC) at $43,608 and Ethereum (ETH) at $2,190. The warning, which resurfaced in March 2022, has garnered attention as it coincides with the looming decision on spot Bitcoin ETF approvals, anticipated before the Jan. 10 deadline.
Social media circles conjecture that such reiteration by the SEC implies possible approval for one or more spot Bitcoin ETFs. This advisory specifically addresses celebrities’ and athletes’ effects in promoting crypto assets, warning investors against making financial decisions based on endorsements by these popular figures.
The report mentions cases where celebrities were punished for promoting some cryptocurrencies. Kim Kardashian settled with the SEC after being charged for not disclosing that she received payments of more than $250 00K from posting about Ethereum Max (EMAX), which was a sham token on her enormous following Instagram page.
SEC Warns Of Crypto Volatility Amid Bitcoin ETF Anticipation
In addition to celebrity endorsements, the SEC’s advisory underscores the volatility associated with assets influenced by trends and influencers. It urges investors to exercise prudence, warning that initial appeal may quickly lead to substantial losses as the market swiftly evolves.
“How would you feel if your investment lost 20, 30, or even 50 percent in a single day?” the report queries its readers, underscoring the unpredictable nature of crypto markets.
The crypto industry is on edge, awaiting developments in the Bitcoin ETF space. Analysts, including Eric Balchunas from Bloomberg, anticipate that most applicants meeting the SEC’s requirements before Dec. 29 will likely secure approval within the coming week. The SEC’s timely reminder reinforces the importance of informed decision-making amid the escalating excitement surrounding potential spot Bitcoin ETF approvals.
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