U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) procedures for crypto exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are changing, and the shift could speed up approvals for popular digital assets. Journalist Eleanor Terrett shared on X that the SEC has asked issuers of Litecoin (LTC), XRP, Solana (SOL), Cardano (ADA), and Dogecoin (DOGE) ETFs to withdraw their 19b-4 filings.
Terrett explained that this is not a setback. The request follows the SEC’s approval of generic listing standards two weeks ago. Those standards allow exchanges to list crypto ETFs without the 19b-4 process, provided the tokens meet existing criteria. Withdrawals could begin this week.
Before this update, issuers needed both a 19b-4 form and an S-1 registration statement to launch a crypto ETF. The new framework removes the first step. Now, as long as a token fits the approved listing standards, the SEC can move directly to the S-1 review.
This adjustment could shorten timelines for ETF launches. Instead of waiting for separate 19b-4 deadlines, the SEC can approve or deny listings at any time. For investors, that means the window for new crypto ETFs – whether spot or futures-based – may open faster than before.
More context for those asking whether withdrawal is a bad thing: the short answer is no. The long answer: when the @SECGov approved the generic listing standards two weeks ago, it eliminated the need for exchanges to file 19b-4 forms to list individual token ETFs, simplifying and… https://t.co/byHmCkMti1
— Eleanor Terrett (@EleanorTerrett) September 29, 2025
The tokens named – LTC, XRP, SOL, ADA, and DOGE – are some of the most traded and widely held cryptos. Each already has strong liquidity and market depth, which are key requirements for ETF eligibility.
By removing an extra regulatory layer, the SEC is effectively clearing a faster path for these products to reach the market. Market participants see this as a sign that the agency’s new system is working as intended.
The broader ETF market has been active in 2025, with multiple crypto funds launched or awaiting approval. Spot Bitcoin and Ethereum products led earlier waves, and the next phase could bring diversified crypto ETFs to U.S. exchanges.