SEC Delays Decision on XRP, Solana, Litecoin and Dogecoin ETF: What It Means for Crypto Investors
In a widely anticipated move, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has delayed its decision on several exchange-traded funds (ETFs) tied to major altcoins, including XRP, Solana (SOL), Litecoin (LTC), and Dogecoin (DOGE). This decision, announced on March 11, 2025, follows the SEC’s standard procedure of extending review periods for ETF applications. While some market participants may view this as a setback, leading analysts, including Bloomberg ETF analyst James Seyffart, assure that this move was expected and does not alter the long-term likelihood of approval.
SEC’s Decision: A Routine Delay or a Sign of Future Approvals?
The SEC has decided to extend the timeline for evaluating multiple altcoin ETF proposals, citing the need for a “longer period” to consider the regulatory implications. Among the affected ETFs are:
- Grayscale’s XRP ETF
- Cboe BZX Exchange’s Spot Solana ETF
The deadline for these ETFs has now been pushed to May 2025. However, the final deadlines for all pending altcoin ETF proposals are expected to stretch until October 2025.
While some investors may be disappointed, analysts emphasize that these extensions are procedural and do not indicate rejection. Seyffart noted that the SEC’s delay is standard practice, and the likelihood of approval remains relatively high.
Impact of Leadership Changes at the SEC
One of the key reasons analysts remain optimistic is the shift in leadership at the SEC. Former SEC Chairman Gary Gensler, who led an aggressive crackdown on the crypto industry, resigned on January 20, 2025. During his tenure from 2021 to 2025, Gensler spearheaded over 100 crypto-related enforcement actions, fostering an environment of regulatory uncertainty.
However, the regulatory landscape is evolving. U.S. President Donald Trump has nominated Paul Atkins, a pro-crypto businessman and former SEC Commissioner, to take over as the new SEC Chair. Although Atkins has not yet been confirmed by Congress, his appointment is expected to bring a more favorable regulatory approach to the crypto sector.
Meanwhile, acting SEC Chairman Mark Uyeda has proposed rolling back some regulations that would have expanded oversight on alternative trading systems, including crypto firms. This shift suggests that the SEC under new leadership may adopt a less adversarial stance toward digital assets.
Implications for the Crypto Market
1. Increased Optimism for Altcoin ETFs
Despite the delay, the prospects for altcoin ETFs remain strong. Industry experts believe that once Trump’s pick, Paul Atkins, assumes office, the SEC may accelerate ETF approvals. Historically, ETF approvals have been viewed as a bullish catalyst, as they enable institutional investors to gain exposure to crypto assets through regulated financial instruments.
2. Potential Boost for XRP, SOL, LTC, and DOGE Prices
The mere possibility of ETF approvals has already boosted market sentiment around the affected cryptocurrencies. If approved, these ETFs could drive significant capital inflows, much like what happened with Bitcoin ETFs in early 2024, which saw billions in trading volume within days of launch.
3. Regulatory Clarity for Crypto Firms
The SEC’s decision to delay altcoin ETFs comes amid a broader shift in crypto regulation. Several firms previously facing SEC litigation have had their cases dismissed, including:
- Gemini (Feb. 26, 2025)
- Cumberland DRW (March 4, 2025)
This trend suggests that the SEC’s new leadership could soften its stance on crypto enforcement, paving the way for a more structured regulatory framework.
The Bigger Picture: The Future of Crypto ETFs
The delay in ETF approvals is not unique to altcoins. Bloomberg ETF analyst Eric Balchunas pointed out that the SEC has also postponed decisions on Ether (ETH) staking ETFs and in-kind redemptions. This indicates a broader reassessment of the crypto ETF landscape, rather than an outright rejection.
Looking ahead, the fate of crypto ETFs will largely depend on SEC leadership changes and market developments. The approval of Bitcoin spot ETFs in early 2024 set a strong precedent, and many experts believe altcoin ETFs will eventually follow suit—potentially by late 2025.
Conclusion
While the SEC’s delay on XRP, Solana, Litecoin, and Dogecoin ETFs may cause short-term uncertainty, industry analysts remain optimistic about the long-term prospects of these financial products. With a pro-crypto nominee set to take over the SEC and recent legal wins for crypto firms, the regulatory environment appears to be shifting in favor of digital assets.
Investors should continue monitoring SEC developments, ETF approval timelines, and broader regulatory changes, as these factors will play a crucial role in shaping the next phase of cryptocurrency adoption and institutional investment.
