The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has told crypto ETF issuers to withdraw their 19b-4 filings, potentially clearing the way for faster approvals. The move comes after new rules removed the need for exchanges to submit separate requests for each product.
Under the updated framework, exchanges can now list commodity-based ETFs, including those tied to cryptocurrencies, without individual SEC review. Issuers only need to file an S-1 registration statement outlining the ETF’s structure and strategy, streamlining what was historically a months-long process.
“Approvals could happen extremely quickly if the SEC chooses to act,” said James Seyffart, Bloomberg Intelligence ETF analyst. “It could be a matter of days, though timing may depend on first-to-file precedence.”
In recent months, asset managers have filed proposals for spot crypto ETFs covering SOL, LTC, and DOGE. By eliminating the 19b-4 step, the SEC is reducing regulatory friction and potentially opening the door for a wider range of crypto ETFs to reach the market.
Despite the change, uncertainties remain, including the possibility of a government shutdown, which could affect the timing of approvals.
