SEC Tells Issuers to Pull 19b-4s; ETFs Could Be Approved ‘Absurdly Fast’

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has requested crypto exchange-traded fund (ETF) issuers to withdraw their 19b-4 filings, facilitating a quicker approval process following a recent rule change. This new regulation allows exchanges to list certain commodity-based crypto ETFs without requiring individual SEC reviews, significantly reducing regulatory obstacles. Analysts suggest that this updated framework could lead to rapid approvals of pending ETFs, potentially within days. Previously, ETF issuers had to file 19b-4 forms to change listing rules, a method that often delayed the process for months. Now, issuers need to submit only an S-1 filing to gain SEC approval. However, uncertainties remain, primarily surrounding the timing of these approvals amid concerns about potential government shutdowns and the need for the SEC to remain consistent with its previous first-to-file practices. The agency's revised stance could enable a broader range of digital asset funds to reach the market with fewer delays.

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