SEC receives Truth Social Bitcoin ETF proposal as Trump Media expands into crypto

Truth Social, the Trump-linked platform, has filed for a Truth Social Bitcoin ETF with the SEC, a move that could disrupt finance by turning a social network into a crypto powerhouse. If approved, it would let investors bet on Bitcoin without owning it, while marking the first time a media company sponsors such a fund. The SEC’s decision could come by January 2026.

Why Truth Social Bitcoin ETF filing is a major crypto push

NYSE Arca submitted a 19b-4 application to the SEC on behalf of the Truth Social Bitcoin ETF, seeking to list shares that track Bitcoin’s spot price. If approved, the ETF would let investors gain exposure to Bitcoin without directly holding the cryptocurrency, mirroring popular products like BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust.

The filing reveals Yorkville America Digital as the sponsor, with Foris DAX Trust Company serving as custodian. Daily net asset value (NAV) calculations will use the CF Benchmarks Index, while share creation and redemption will follow NYSE Arca Rule 8.201-E.

Why the Truth Social Bitcoin ETF stands out

Unlike traditional financial firms behind existing Bitcoin ETFs, the Truth Social Bitcoin ETF would be backed by a social media platform with strong political ties – a first for the crypto market. While the filing avoids mentioning former President Donald Trump by name, the connection to Truth Social’s parent company, Trump Media, is unmistakable.

Analysts suggest the SEC’s approval odds are favorable, given its greenlighting of 11 spot Bitcoin ETFs earlier this year. Bloomberg’s Eric Balchunas noted: “The ‘Trump’ name isn’t on the ETF docs, but everyone knows who owns Truth Social.”

Key dates and what’s next for the Truth Social Bitcoin ETF

The SEC has 45 days to respond after the filing hits the Federal Register, with a final deadline of January 29, 2026. Possible outcomes include:

• Approval: Trading could begin shortly after.

• Delay: The SEC may extend review periods up to 240 days.

• Rejection: Unlikely given precedent, but not impossible.

Notably, the filing leaves out management fees and a ticker symbol – details likely to emerge in a forthcoming S-1 registration.

Trump Media’s expanding crypto ambitions

The Truth Social Bitcoin ETF isn’t Trump Media’s first crypto venture. Earlier this year, the company:

• Filed trademarks for ETFs and managed accounts.

• Partnered with Crypto.com to explore altcoin ETFs.

• Announced plans to buy $2.32 billion in Bitcoin for its treasury.

This aggressive strategy suggests Truth Social aims to position itself as a hybrid social-media-financial platform, leveraging its user base for crypto adoption.

Market implications of a Truth Social Bitcoin ETF

If approved, the Truth Social Bitcoin ETF could attract both crypto enthusiasts and politically aligned investors, creating a unique niche. However, experts caution that regulatory scrutiny may intensify due to Truth Social’s polarizing brand.

“A social media platform sponsoring a Bitcoin ETF is unprecedented,” said financial analyst Lydia Roth. “It blurs the line between tech and finance, which regulators will watch closely.”

With the SEC’s decision pending, all eyes are on whether the Truth Social Bitcoin ETF will break new ground or face unexpected hurdles.