SEC Fast-Tracks Crypto ETF Listings, Potentially Unlocking Flood of New Products

The US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has streamlined the process for listing cryptocurrency exchange-traded funds (ETFs), allowing approved funds to list in as little as 75 days, down from a maximum of 240 days.

Under the new rules, which come into effect in 2026, funds will be able to list without going through the lengthy and often delayed 19b-4 approval process. Instead, they must meet certain criteria outlined by the SEC, including having sufficient liquidity, a reliable custodian, and adequate market surveillance.

This change is expected to lead to an influx of new ETF listings, with Bitwise predicting over 100 new funds will be launched in the coming months. However, experts warn that this rapid listing process may also bring risks, such as lower-quality products being approved more quickly and potentially harming investors.