SEC Proposes 75-Day Approval Timeline For Crypto ETFs

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is considering a significant change to the approval process for Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs). The proposed modification involves replacing the current 19b-4 rule with a new 75-day approval timeline. This shift aims to expedite the listing process for crypto ETFs, potentially allowing issuers to bypass the lengthy 19b-4 procedure. The SEC's move comes as part of a broader regulatory shift, which has already seen the approval of other innovative financial products. This development is expected to streamline the regulatory landscape for crypto ETFs, making it more efficient for issuers to bring these products to market. The change is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of digital asset regulation in the United States.

The SEC’s current approval process for crypto ETFs involves a dual-track system that includes the lengthy 19b-4 rule-change procedure, which alone adds approximately 90 days to the timeline. By shifting the approval mechanism to rely solely on the S-1 registration statement, the agency aims to streamline the process without compromising disclosure standards. This change is expected to reduce the typical multi-month wait to just 75 days, allowing issuers to bring token-based ETFs to market more swiftly and efficiently.

In tandem with this procedural overhaul, the SEC is working closely with major exchanges to develop a standardized framework that tokens must satisfy to qualify for the expedited approval track. While specific benchmarks remain confidential, it is anticipated that metrics such as market capitalization, average daily trading volume, and liquidity thresholds will form the core of these eligibility requirements. This initiative aims to ensure that only tokens with established market credibility benefit from the accelerated listing process.

The proposed framework is particularly advantageous for issuers of well-established tokens already traded on major exchanges, as it offers a more predictable and transparent path to ETF listing. By reducing procedural uncertainties and review delays, the SEC’s approach could foster increased institutional participation and investor confidence in crypto ETFs. This shift also addresses longstanding concerns regarding the opacity and inconsistency of previous approval timelines, potentially setting a new industry standard for regulatory clarity.

While the SEC has yet to finalize or publicly confirm the implementation timeline of this framework, the early indications suggest a regulatory environment more receptive to crypto-linked financial products. Market analysts anticipate that faster approvals could stimulate innovation and competition among ETF issuers, ultimately benefiting investors through expanded product offerings and improved market efficiency. Stakeholders are advised to monitor forthcoming SEC announcements closely to adapt strategies accordingly.

The SEC’s initiative to streamline crypto ETF approvals by removing the 19b-4 process and emphasizing S-1 filings represents a significant regulatory evolution. By establishing clear token eligibility standards and shortening review periods to 75 days, the agency is fostering a more efficient and transparent market environment. This development is poised to benefit mature digital assets and enhance investor access to regulated crypto investment vehicles, marking a pivotal step in the maturation of the digital asset ecosystem.