US SEC Explores Streamlined Cryptocurrency ETF Listing Process

Key Takeaway:

• SEC is exploring a simplified listing structure for cryptocurrency ETFs
• New process could bypass 19b-4 licensing applications, requiring only S-1 filing and 75-day wait
• REX Shares Solana ETF becomes first approved crypto ETF with staking features
• Multiple altcoin ETFs await approval with deadlines in late 2025

The US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is exploring a simplified listing structure for cryptocurrency exchange-traded funds (ETFs) aimed at automating much of the approval process.

Simplified New Process

According to cryptocurrency news sources, the reform proposal would allow ETF issuers to bypass the 19b-4 licensing application – a form that issuers must submit to the SEC before listing financial products on exchanges.

Instead, issuers would only need to file the SEC’s S-1 form (initial listing registration document) and wait 75 days. If the SEC raises no objections to the application, the issuer would be free to list the ETF, significantly reducing back-and-forth exchanges between fund managers and regulators.

Details Yet to Be Confirmed

Specific details of the proposal, including eligibility criteria to determine which cryptocurrencies could participate in this expedited process, have not yet been officially confirmed by issuers and regulators.

Cryptocurrency ETF approvals are becoming a topic of particular interest, as US-listed altcoin ETFs have the potential to attract new capital flows into the altcoin market, potentially triggering a sustained altcoin price rally.

First Cryptocurrency Staking ETF Approved

The SEC recently approved the nation’s first cryptocurrency ETF with staking features. The regulator has allowed the launch of REX Shares Solana ETF (STAK), which includes staking rewards as part of its investment strategy.

Multiple Critical Decisions Pending

This development occurs as the SEC faces a backlog of pending decisions on cryptocurrency-related ETFs, with many decisions having deadlines in the latter half of 2025.

Proposals awaiting approval include:

• Litecoin (LTC) ETFs
• Dogecoin (DOGE) ETFs
• Solana (SOL) ETFs
• XRP ETFs
• Staking feature requests for Ethereum funds

Expert Forecasts

ETF analysts predict that cryptocurrency funds may face delays, with final application deadlines expected in October 2025.

This development could usher in a new era for the US cryptocurrency ETF market, creating more favorable conditions for investors to access digital assets in a regulated and transparent manner.