Bitcoin News Today: SEC Delays Trump Group's Bitcoin ETF Decision to September 18, 2025 Amid Political Ties Scrutiny

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has announced a delay in its decision on the Trump Group’s Bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF) application, pushing the review period to September 18, 2025, after initially requesting an extension from its standard timeline. The proposal, filed by Truth Social through NYSE Arca in June 2025, has drawn significant scrutiny due to its association with Donald Trump, a whose business interests remain entangled with the project. The SEC cited the need for “additional time to examine the implications of the proposed change and the issues it raises” [1]. This move has intensified debates over regulatory neutrality and potential conflicts of interest, with Democratic senators like Elizabeth Warren and Jeff Merkley warning of risks tied to granting regulatory approval to a figure with political influence. Merkley stated, “Allowing Trump to create a Bitcoin ETF is opening the door to abuse of power. He can influence the regulation and then profit from it.” [1]

The delay underscores the SEC’s cautious approach to projects linked to high-profile individuals. While the regulator typically allows 270 days for ETF approvals, the current leadership under Chair Paul Atkins, a former Trump associate, has adopted a more flexible stance. The Commission requested clarifications on the fund’s staking and redemption mechanisms, though analysts speculate this could signal a future green light [1]. This aligns with broader trends: since January 2024, the SEC has approved 12 crypto ETFs, which have collectively attracted $54.8 billion in inflows. However, the Trump Group’s proposal stands apart due to its political context. Truth Social has filed additional applications for a mixed Bitcoin-Ethereum fund and a “Blue Chip” crypto ETF, expanding its financial ambitions [1].

Regulatory hesitation contrasts with the Trump Group’s aggressive strategy. The project leverages Trump’s political visibility to position Bitcoin as both a speculative asset and a tool for economic expansion. The ETF’s design, targeting a “Commodity-Based Trust Shares” framework, mirrors existing crypto ETF structures but introduces unique risks. Commissioner Hester Peirce emphasized the complexity of balancing multiple disputes, stating, “Each crypto file demands particular attention,” [1] highlighting the SEC’s broader challenge in navigating a surge of 50+ crypto ETF applications. Critics argue that the project blurs regulatory and political lines, particularly as other Trump-linked ventures—such as World Liberty Financial and the $TRUMP memecoin—raise further concerns about personal enrichment. Senator Warren has warned that such products function as “political and personal tools,” complicating the SEC’s duty to ensure market fairness [1].

The delayed decision reflects broader uncertainties in the crypto sector. While the SEC grapples with oversight challenges, market participants remain divided. Proponents view the ETF as a testament to Bitcoin’s growing institutional acceptance, while skeptics highlight the lack of transparency in how Trump’s business empire might benefit. The outcome could set a precedent for future applications, particularly those involving politically connected entities. As of September 18, the SEC’s final ruling will likely shape not only the Trump Group’s financial strategy but also the regulatory landscape for crypto products in the U.S.

Sources:

[1] The SEC Reports Its Decision On The Trump Group’s Bitcoin ETF

https://coinmarketcap.com/community/articles/6888a01ca4a8022a19505de/