Nicholas Financial has filed with the SEC to launch the "AfterDark" Bitcoin ETF, which will only hold bitcoin overnight and sell it during U.S. trading hours. This strategy targets the trend of bitcoin performing better when U.S. markets are closed. The fund will also invest in short-term U.S. Treasuries during the day.

The SEC is reportedly advancing a plan to allow blockchain-based stock trading, which could benefit platforms like Coinbase and Robinhood while raising concerns among traditional financial firms about potential market disruptions and compliance issues. Tokenized stocks would enable investors to purchase shares in the form of tokens, streamlining trade settlements but also introducing new risks. However, legacy financial players may challenge the SEC, delaying the implementation of this initiative.

The U.S. SEC and CFTC announced that registered trading platforms can now facilitate the trading of certain spot crypto assets, marking a shift in regulatory stance and aiming to establish a clearer framework for the crypto market ahead of pending legislation. The agencies are encouraging market participants to engage with them to navigate this new opportunity, highlighting their commitment to support growth in the crypto sector.