Google policy update greenlights ads for U.S. crypto trusts

Google has updated its advertising policy regarding cryptocurrencies and related products.

According to the company statement, as of Jan. 29, 2024, Google will allow advertising of digital asset-related investment products, including exchange-traded funds (ETFs).

“In January 2024, Google will update the Cryptocurrencies and related products policy to clarify the scope and requirements for the advertisement of Cryptocurrency Coin Trusts.”

Google update

In September, Google also allowed advertising for blockchain-based games using non-fungible tokens (NFTs). The company classified as permitted games that allow players to purchase in-game items, particularly virtual clothing for characters or weapons. At the same time, advertising of games in which players place bets, including NFTs, in exchange for the opportunity to win something that has real value, such as other tokens, remains prohibited.

At the end of October, the Google Trends analytics service recorded peak values in the number of queries for the keyword “spot bitcoin ETF” in Google’s international search, indicating maximum interest in this topic from ordinary users.

Several large institutional players have already submitted applications for Bitcoin (BTC) ETFs. The launch of these investment products is considered in the crypto community to be the catalyst for a new bull cycle in the market. Bloomberg Intelligence analysts previously estimated the likelihood that the SEC will approve the ETF in early January 2024 at 90%.