New Record: 72 Crypto ETF Filings Await SEC Approval, Market Expects Major Regulatory Momentum
The explosion in crypto ETF filings is pushing the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to a critical juncture, as the digital asset industry looks forward to a new era of more open and transparent policy under new leadership.
SEC Faces Unprecedented Wave of Filings
According to an update from Bloomberg analyst James Seyffart and posted on the X platform by Eric Balchunas, there are now 72 crypto-related ETF filings pending SEC approval. The number includes a range of products, from spot ETFs and futures contracts to leveraged ETFs and staking funds, demonstrating the growing appeal of cryptocurrencies to traditional investors.
The filings cover a wide range of digital assets, not only familiar names such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, XRP, Litecoin or Dogecoin, but also more innovative options such as the “2x Melania” ETF or a fund related to meme coins.
“Big guys” and new names join the race
The list of ETF issuers includes both veteran organizations such as Grayscale, Bitwise, Vaneck, Fidelity and Franklin Templeton, alongside rising names such as 21Shares, CoinShares, ProShares, Hashdex and Tuttle Capital. All are competing for a foothold in the expanding crypto ETF market.
Positive signals from the SEC under new Chairman Paul Atkins
The biggest change comes from within the SEC. Since Gary Gensler stepped down as Chairman, new Chairman Paul Atkins has sent many positive signals, showing a more constructive and transparent stance towards digital assets. Speaking recently before Congress, Atkins said his priority is to build a solid, rational, and principles-based regulatory framework for the crypto market.
This shift is creating great expectations in the industry, especially when the SEC approved a number of spot ETFs related to Bitcoin and Ethereum earlier this year, marking the first turning point after years of delays.
The market is waiting for the “unleashed”
Investors see 2025 as a pivotal moment for the integration of digital assets and traditional financial markets. If the SEC greenlights the majority of the 72 pending applications, it will be the largest wave of crypto ETFs in US history, opening the door to new institutional capital and increasing the level of legitimacy of cryptocurrencies.
However, all eyes are still on Washington. Is the SEC ready to accept the new vision for digital financial markets? The answer will shape the landscape of the entire industry in the years to come.