New SEC Guidance Could Accelerate Stalled Crypto ETFs, Analyst Says
A fresh update from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission could help fast-track the approval of several delayed crypto exchange-traded funds, according to Bloomberg ETF analyst Eric Balchunas.
SEC Allows Accelerated Effective Dates
Balchunas noted that the SEC issued new internal guidance that allows ETF issuers to accelerate the effective date of their registration statements under certain conditions.
This procedural shift is designed to help clear the backlog created by the recent government shutdown, which paused or slowed multiple regulatory reviews.
The mechanism enables issuers to move forward without waiting for standard review cycles, provided that all necessary disclosures and compliance elements are already in place.
Potential Breakthrough for Crypto ETFs
Because many digital-asset ETFs were caught in the shutdown-induced delay, the guidance may give them a pathway to resume progress more quickly.
Balchunas highlighted that Bitwise’s proposed XRP ETF is one of the products that could benefit from this streamlined process.
If issuers opt into accelerated effectiveness, several crypto ETFs pushed into regulatory limbo could suddenly regain momentum.
Industry Reaction
Analysts say the SEC’s move signals an attempt to prevent regulatory gridlock as markets await new financial products.
For crypto issuers, especially those with completed documentation, this could dramatically shorten timelines.
Market participants have long criticized the slow pace of ETF approvals involving digital assets. The new guidance, while procedural, could become a meaningful catalyst for bringing additional crypto ETFs to market.
What Comes Next
If Bitwise or other issuers decide to initiate accelerated effectiveness, filings could begin moving forward within days rather than weeks or months.
This development may open the door for:
• renewed ETF launches paused by the shutdown
• accelerated timelines for niche crypto ETFs
• increased institutional exposure to digital assets
As the regulatory landscape continues evolving, the SEC’s new guidance may become an important turning point for the next wave of crypto-based financial products.
