The recent changes in the crypto ETF approval process by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) could profoundly affect the cryptocurrency market. On September 17, the SEC introduced new listing standards for commodity-based trust shares, potentially accelerating the path to launching spot crypto exchange-traded funds (ETFs).
What the New SEC Approval Means for Crypto ETFs
According to James Seyffart, a Bloomberg ETF analyst, this policy shift may lead to a significant increase in spot crypto ETP launches. Eric Balchunas, another senior ETF analyst at Bloomberg, mentioned that the SEC has effectively cleared the regulatory path for crypto ETFs, provided they align with futures on Coinbase. This implies different regulatory requirements depending on the investible vehicle offered.
Seoyoung Kim, an associate professor of finance at Santa Clara University, explained that while these rule changes have minimal impact on already established categories like BTC and ETH, they could significantly reduce the approval time for new digital asset ETFs that haven’t been individually vetted. The new process might cut down approval times from years to mere months, as long as the ETFs comply with existing formation, listing, and trading standards.
Predictability and Efficiency in ETF Approvals
Federico Brokate, head of US Business at ETF issuer 21Shares, emphasized that the new listing standards provide enhanced predictability for issuers and investors. This change eliminates the need for both S-1 and 19b-4 applications for eligible assets, allowing products that meet generic standards to be listed directly if they qualify through existing futures or comparable structures.
Potential Risks and Considerations
Despite these advancements, concerns remain. The SEC has been reducing enforcement actions against cryptocurrency companies, adopting more industry-friendly policies. Caroline Crenshaw, the sole Democratic commissioner at the SEC, criticized the policy change for bypassing critical investor protection reviews. She warned that the emerging crypto ETFs might represent new and unproven products.
Kim reassured that all previous diligence requirements remain intact, viewing the rule changes as clarifications rather than relaxations of existing standards. Greg Benhaim of digital asset manager 3iQ suggested that the generic listing standards could guide average investors in understanding the differences between various ETFs, such as AVAX and ADA.
Since the SEC’s announcement, asset manager Hashdex has expanded its crypto ETF to include XRP, Solana, and Stellar. Analysts like Balchunas anticipate more developments, pointing to 22 coins with futures on Coinbase eligible for spot ETF consideration.
In conclusion, the SEC’s new policies could significantly enhance the crypto ETF landscape, offering a streamlined path to market entry while maintaining investor protection standards.
