The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has introduced updated Crypto ETF guidelines, signaling a shift in its approach. The 12-page document outlines how digital asset-backed ETFs should disclose risks, custody, and pricing. This change marks a critical step forward for long-pending applications tied to Solana, Dogecoin, and other altcoins.
SEC Unveils New Crypto ETF Guidelines
The SEC has released new Crypto ETF guidelines for exchange-traded products linked to digital assets. This release marks a pivotal change in tone under the current Republican-led leadership at the agency. The guidelines aim to standardize disclosures on crypto custody, valuation methods, and asset volatility.
Moreover, the SEC confirmed that its internal task force has begun reviewing applications more efficiently. Several ongoing enforcement actions have also been paused or dropped. This move has encouraged asset managers awaiting approval for various altcoin ETFs.
Sui Chung, CEO of CF Benchmarks, said the SEC is now building a framework for fund inclusion. He stated that the new guidance responds to the explosion of ETF applications and reflects growing industry optimism about future approvals.
Plans for Universal Listing Framework Underway
The SEC is also considering a universal rule for crypto ETF listings to streamline the approval process. Currently, exchanges must file Form 19b-4 separately for each product, extending timelines up to 240 days and significantly delaying launches.
Under the proposed plan, the SEC aims to shorten the approval process to just 75 days. Coordination with major exchanges like Nasdaq and Cboe is already in progress. This could allow multiple altcoin ETFs to launch simultaneously under one consistent rule.
Nate Geraci, President of ETF Store, noted the agency is finalizing wording with exchanges. He said a universal rule would save time and reduce regulatory confusion. Issuers believe this is essential to expand crypto exposure in traditional portfolios.
Reuters confirms SEC is working on creating a full framework to streamline approval of spot crypto ETFs…
"The SEC is looking for a general rule it can apply to all listings, and currently is going back and forth on precise wording with the exchanges.” pic.twitter.com/2N8tbvAgny
— Nate Geraci (@NateGeraci) July 7, 2025
Optimism Rises for Altcoin ETF Approvals
While final approval for Spot ETFs tied to Solana, XRP, and Dogecoin remains pending, optimism is growing. Data from Polymarket indicates a 70% chance of approval for altcoin-linked ETFs such as Litecoin and Cardano. These probabilities reflect shifting sentiment in the market following the SEC’s latest move.
Recently, the SEC approved a diversified crypto index ETF beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum. This decision is being viewed as a signal of broader regulatory acceptance. Issuers now see a real chance of approval for additional products within this calendar year.
Meanwhile, REX Financial and Osprey Funds launched an ETF linked to Solana through an offshore entity. This indirect method allows investors to gain exposure despite the ongoing regulatory limbo. Industry participants see such initiatives as a bridge until direct approvals arrive.
Summary
The SEC has released new Crypto ETF guidelines, offering clear direction on digital asset disclosures and hinting at broader altcoin ETF approvals. It is also working with major exchanges to introduce a universal rule that may cut approval times from 240 to 75 days. These developments suggest that ETFs tied to Solana, Dogecoin, and others could soon receive regulatory clearance. Meanwhile, industry players are moving forward with creative ETF structures as optimism rises for a full altcoin ETF rollout in 2025.
FAQs
What are the new Crypto ETF guidelines?
The guidelines outline how ETFs must disclose digital asset risks, pricing methods, and custody procedures.
What changes has the SEC proposed?
The SEC plans to introduce a universal listing framework to speed up ETF approvals across all digital asset products.
Which altcoin ETFs may get approved next?
Solana, Dogecoin, XRP, Litecoin, and Cardano ETFs are gaining traction and could be next in line for approval.
How will this affect ETF approval timelines?
Approval periods could drop from 240 days to just 75 days under the proposed universal framework.
Has the SEC approved any new crypto ETFs?
Yes, the SEC recently approved a diversified crypto index ETF including assets beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Glossary of Key Terms
Crypto ETF: An exchange-traded fund that tracks the value of cryptocurrencies or crypto-related assets.
SEC: The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, responsible for regulating securities markets.
Form 19b-4: A form used by exchanges to request SEC approval for new ETF listings.
Spot ETF: A type of ETF that directly holds the underlying asset, such as a cryptocurrency.
Custody: The process of holding and safeguarding financial assets, including digital tokens.
Offshore ETF: A fund launched outside the U.S. to bypass domestic regulatory restrictions.
Index ETF: A fund that tracks the performance of a specific group of assets or tokens.
Listing Framework: Regulatory structure that governs how ETFs are approved and listed on exchanges.
Polymarket: A decentralized prediction market platform providing probability forecasts on real-world events.
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