Bitwise Files S-1 for First Aptos ETF Amid Growing Momentum

Bitwise has officially filed an S-1 registration statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for the first-ever Aptos ETF. The move marks another major step by the asset manager to expand its crypto-focused product line. The filing, submitted on October 4, aims to launch the Bitwise Aptos ETF. An exchange-traded product offering exposure to the value of Aptos (APT).

Bitwise Targets Aptos Ecosystem Growth

Bitwise CEO Hunter Horsley confirmed the filing on X, noting that he couldn’t share more details due to the regulatory “quiet period.” Still, his enthusiasm was clear, saying he’s “fired up about the momentum in the Aptos ecosystem.”

That momentum isn’t random. Aptos has seen a major uptick in developer activity. Data from Chain Broker shows Aptos leading development growth among top blockchain projects. With a 897% increase, outpacing networks like Celo, Nym and Skale. The timing of Bitwise move appears strategic. The firm is betting on Aptos’ growing ecosystem. Which has recently gained traction in DeFi, gaming and Layer-1 scalability innovation.

Inside the Bitwise Aptos ETF

According to the SEC filing, the Bitwise Aptos ETF will issue shares representing fractional ownership in the trust’s Aptos holdings. The trust’s value will be tied to the CF Aptos-Dollar Settlement Price, calculated by CF Benchmarks Ltd. This benchmark aggregates data from major Aptos trading platforms to ensure accurate pricing. The ETF will be managed by Bitwise Investment Advisers, LLC. Which will charge an annual management fee. 

The filing does not yet specify the exact fee percentage or the exchange on which the ETF will be listed. Bitwise’s product structure allows authorized participants. Typically, large financial institutions create or redeem shares in blocks of 10,000, known as “Baskets.” Each Basket represents a fixed amount of Aptos held by the trust. This creation and redemption mechanism helps align the ETF’s market price with its underlying asset value.

Why the Aptos ETF Matters

If approved, the Bitwise Aptos ETF would be the first ETF linked to Aptos. A major milestone for Bitwise and the Layer-1 network. For investors, it represents an easier way to gain exposure to Aptos without directly buying or holding the token. This structure removes the need for a crypto wallet or self-custody. It offers a traditional route into crypto investing for institutional and retail participants. Moreover, the ETF’s debut comes at a time when regulatory discussions around crypto ETFs have intensified. The SEC has faced pressure to clarify its stance on digital asset products. After approving several Bitcoin and Ethereum based ETFs earlier this year.

A Step Forward for Crypto ETFs

Bitwise continues to lead the charge in expanding regulated crypto investment options in the U.S. The firm already manages products tied to Bitcoin, Ethereum and other major assets. The Aptos ETF could signal the next phase, bringing emerging Layer-1 projects into mainstream finance. While the SEC’s approval timeline remains uncertain. 

The filing itself underscores the growing institutional interest in Aptos. If cleared, it could open the door for similar ETFs tracking other fast-rising blockchain networks. Currently, both the Aptos community and the broader crypto market are watching closely. They are waiting to see whether this ETF can set a new precedent in the race to bridge digital assets and traditional markets.