SEC delays Solana ETF decision after filings this week confirmed the next review date is October 16.
The deadline applies to the Bitwise Solana ETF and the 21Shares Core Solana ETF. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission said the move allows more time to consider the proposed rule changes and related issues. This action mirrors the agency’s routine practice of extending deadlines for crypto-related ETF proposals.
Several other Solana ETF applications have also faced delays. These include proposals from Grayscale and Fidelity, both of which have been waiting for the SEC’s review. Industry observers note that such extensions are common, especially given the recent wave of proposals. The SEC has received filings for dozens of new crypto ETFs, tracking assets from XRP to DOGE. This influx comes amid what some analysts call a more receptive federal stance toward digital asset investment products.
ANOTHER MUST-READ ON ICN.LIVE:
The ‘godfather of AI’ confesses that risks and warnings in shaping humanity’s future
More proposals line up for review
Proposals for Solana ETFs have seen progress recently as applicants updated filings to align with the SEC’s requirements. Firms including ProShares, Canary, and 21Shares are among those awaiting a decision. BlackRock, the largest asset manager globally, is notably absent from the Solana ETF applicant list. A spokesperson told The Block last week the company has no plans to launch a Solana-focused fund at this time.
The SEC delays Solana ETF decision in a context where other approvals have shaped the market significantly. In July, the agency approved orders allowing in-kind creations and redemptions for crypto ETFs. It also opened the door for applications to list and trade spot Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs, and to trade options on certain spot Bitcoin ETPs.
Shift in regulatory approach
The SEC’s posture toward crypto ETFs has shifted during the Biden administration. The change followed a key court ruling that influenced its stance on spot bitcoin ETFs. This shift later extended to Ethereum ETFs, creating a precedent that market participants hope will benefit other digital asset products, including Solana.
While the agency’s latest action delays a final decision, the October deadline sets a clear short-term timeline for applicants and investors. The SEC is expected to either approve, deny, or extend again. Such decisions can influence not only Solana’s market price but also the broader sentiment toward altcoin ETFs.
Market watchers suggest that an eventual approval could increase institutional access to Solana exposure. Until then, the sector remains in a holding pattern as regulatory review continues.