SEC Introduces New Guidelines to Expedite Crypto ETF Approvals

According to Odaily, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has released new guidelines that could accelerate the approval process for cryptocurrency exchange-traded funds (ETFs). These updates come after a prolonged government shutdown, which resulted in a backlog of over 900 pending registration filings. The SEC has issued technical guidance outlining how issuers can advance ETF applications under Section 8(a) and Rule 461 of the Securities Act of 1933. Key changes in the new guidelines that could expedite the approval process include the SEC's approval on September 17, 2025, of universal listing standards for commodity trust shares on Nasdaq, Cboe BZX Exchange, and the New York Stock Exchange Arca. This eliminates the need for each eligible crypto exchange-traded product (ETP) to obtain separate approval under Section 19(b). For filings submitted during the government shutdown, the guidelines confirm that registration statements without deferral clauses will automatically become effective after 20 days under Section 8(a). The new SEC instructions allow issuers to choose automatic effectiveness or formally request accelerated effectiveness under Rule 461 for quicker listing.