The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) approved a framework of generic listing standards that will allow exchanges to launch digital asset ETFs with a more streamlined process. This measure could accelerate the arrival of regulated products linked to altcoins like Solana, XRP, Cardano, and others, expanding the institutional offering beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Here are the 5 key points that define this historic change:
🔑 #1 — Approval under generic standards
The SEC authorizes exchanges (Nasdaq, Cboe, NYSE Arca) to list commodity and cryptoasset ETFs that meet certain predetermined criteria, without the need for case-by-case review under section 19(b). This reduces time and bureaucracy in approvals.
🔑 #2 — Altcoins in focus: Solana, XRP, and ADA
With this framework, it is more feasible for spot ETFs linked to leading altcoins like Solana (SOL), XRP, and Cardano (ADA) to be approved. Managers have already modified ETF applications to align them with the new standards, anticipating a boom in products.
🔑 #3 — First products already underway
The Grayscale Digital Large Cap Fund, which includes a basket of BTC, ETH, SOL, ADA, and XRP, was approved under these standards, marking the first precedent. This confirms that the door is open for diversified altcoin funds.
🔑 #4 — Benefits for institutional investors
Altcoin ETFs could channel large institutional flows, offering:
Regulated exposure to emerging assets.
Safer custody under surveillance frameworks.
Possibility of diversification beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum.
🔑 #5 — Risks and cautions
The SEC will continue to impose strict requirements for transparency, custody, and market surveillance.
There is still uncertainty in specific products (e.g., Litecoin ETF under review).
Critics point out that some digital commodities ETFs offer less protection than funds under the 1940 Act.
Conclusion
The new SEC standards could trigger a wave of altcoin ETFs, legitimizing projects like Solana and XRP in the global financial ecosystem. However, the path will not be free of regulatory risks and technical challenges.
👉 If the flows into BTC and ETH have already set records in 2025, could we see something similar in altcoins when these ETFs come into play?
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