SEC Postpones Key Crypto ETF Decisions to Summer 2025

The SEC is slowing the momentum of crypto ETFs and postponing decisions on the XRP ETF, Ethereum ETF staking, and Dogecoin ETF until summer 2025. These delays illustrate the regulatory complexity surrounding the integration of cryptocurrencies into traditional finance, slowing their adoption by institutional investors. But an unexpected candidate could be approved much earlier than anticipated.

SEC: Postponement of Decision on XRP ETF and Ethereum ETF Staking

On May 20, 2025, the SEC officially extended the review period for two major crypto filings. On one hand, the XRP ETF from Franklin Templeton received an additional deadline until mid-June to allow a more comprehensive study of the legal and regulatory issues. On the other hand, Bitwise’s request to integrate staking into its Ethereum ETF had its decision postponed until July 6, 2025.

These delays come with a call for public comments, a standard procedure to ensure a solid legal framework. This approach reflects the SEC’s caution towards the complex innovations of the crypto sector, despite a perceived trend towards a more open stance on digital assets.

Regulatory Slowness: Dogecoin ETF Among Postponed Filings

On April 29, 2025, the SEC had set an initial deadline to decide on Bitwise’s Dogecoin ETF. This deadline has been extended to June 15, 2025, illustrating the regulatory process’s slowness. The massive influx of crypto ETF applications, especially for popular altcoins, forces the regulator to proceed methodically. Recent delays include:

• Bitwise and 21Shares’ Solana ETF: the SEC extended the review until July 6, 2025;
• VanEck and Canary Capital’s Solana ETF: the decision is also postponed, with a deadline around early July 2025.

These dates show that the SEC is focusing its in-depth analysis on these filings before mid-summer, while managing a significant volume of proposals. Furthermore, they demonstrate the regulator’s ongoing caution in a rapidly growing crypto market.

Crypto ETFs: A Favorite for Quick Approval?

Analyst James Seyffart reminds that the timelines applied by the SEC are usual. The agency generally uses the full legal time to review filings, with decisions often made in October or even later in the year. This pace fits within a rigorous process, irrespective of the regulator’s “crypto-friendly ” orientation.

Meanwhile, Litecoin stands out as the most likely candidate to receive quick approval. Its profile and regulatory history seem to give it an edge in a landscape where caution remains the rule.

This waiting highlights the complexity of integrating cryptos into traditional markets.

With more than 70 crypto ETFs awaiting approval this year, the SEC thus shows caution through these successive delays. These timelines still raise a question: does rigor slow innovation or necessarily protect investors? The future of crypto ETFs will depend on this delicate balance between rapid innovation and financial security.