币界网报道：BlackRock's much-anticipated spot Bitcoin ETF application faces regulatory delays as the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) extends its review period. The SEC has pushed back its decision deadline on BlackRock's proposed iShares Bitcoin Trust to early 2024, citing the need for additional time to evaluate the potential risks and investor protections surrounding the crypto investment product. This marks the second delay for BlackRock's application, following similar postponements for other spot Bitcoin ETF proposals from firms like Grayscale and Bitwise. Industry analysts suggest the SEC remains cautious about approving direct Bitcoin exposure vehicles despite growing institutional demand, with concerns persisting about market manipulation and custody solutions in the volatile crypto market. BlackRock CEO Larry Fink has previously expressed bullish long-term views on Bitcoin's role as "digital gold," and the asset manager's entry into the crypto ETF space is seen as a potential game-changer for mainstream adoption. The delay comes as Bitcoin shows renewed price strength, recently surpassing $35,000 amid broader crypto market optimism. Market participants will now watch for the SEC's next move in January, when the extended comment period concludes and a final decision becomes due.