SEC Could Delay Ethereum Staking Approvals for BlackRock, Franklin and Fidelity as ETF Pipeline Swells

• BlackRock’s staking amendment moved to October 30 — another formal extension.

• Franklin Templeton and Fidelity staking amendments were deferred into November review windows.

• More than 90 crypto ETF applications remain pending, underscoring strong issuer interest amid delays.

SEC delays staking decisions: BlackRock, Franklin Templeton, and Fidelity Ethereum staking ETF reviews pushed into Oct–Nov, extending uncertainty — COINOTAG report.

SEC delays staking decisions for BlackRock, Franklin, and Fidelity ETFs, extending review timelines amid regulatory caution.

What are the SEC delays on staking decisions?

The SEC delays staking decisions when it extends review windows for proposed ETF rule changes; the commission recently moved BlackRock’s iShares Ethereum Trust staking proposal to October 30 and pushed Franklin Templeton and Fidelity staking amendments into November. These extensions increase short-term uncertainty for staking ETF approvals.

How did the SEC extend review periods for staking ETF amendments?

The SEC invoked its authority under Section 19(b) of the Securities Exchange Act to extend formal review periods. Extensions can run for the maximum statutory timeframe (up to 180 days) and may be followed by an additional 60-day extension. This process lets the commission solicit and evaluate market and investor feedback before a final determination.

Which firms and deadlines are affected?

Why are staking ETF approvals being delayed?

The SEC cites investor protection and market structure concerns when reviewing staking features. Under Chairman Paul Atkins’ broader crypto agenda — referred to publicly as “Project Crypto” — the agency is both updating frameworks and using available review periods to scrutinize operational, custodial, and governance risks tied to staking mechanics.

What does this mean for the broader crypto ETF pipeline?

Industry filings remain robust. Bloomberg Intelligence analyst James Seyffart estimates more than 90 crypto ETF proposals are pending. The pipeline includes spot bitcoin, altcoin-linked funds, and staking amendments — all subject to the same procedural review processes that can result in multiple extensions before approval or denial.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can the SEC delay ETF rule changes?

The SEC can delay proposed rule changes for up to 180 days under Section 19(b) of the Securities Exchange Act and may extend reviews by an additional 60 days in some cases. These statutory windows allow time for public comment and internal analysis.

Will staking approvals change Ethereum validator economics?

Approvals that permit on‑fund staking could alter yield distribution and custody requirements, but any change depends on fund structure and SEC-mandated safeguards. Issuers propose mechanisms to protect investors while allowing funds to capture staking rewards.

Are issuers withdrawing filings because of delays?

No widespread withdrawals have been reported; major asset managers continue to file and amend proposals. Repeated extensions have not deterred issuers such as BlackRock, Franklin Templeton, Fidelity, Bitwise, Grayscale, VanEck, and others from pursuing approvals.

Key Takeaways

• Regulatory timelines stretch: The SEC is using full statutory review periods, pushing key staking ETF decisions into late Oct–Nov.
• Major issuers remain active: BlackRock, Franklin Templeton, Fidelity, and others continue to file amendments despite repeated delays.
• Pipeline pressure: Over 90 crypto ETF proposals are pending, signaling sustained issuer interest and possible phased approvals.

How should investors and issuers respond?

• Monitor SEC filings and public notices for final action dates and comments.
• Assess fund prospectus language on staking mechanics, custody, and reward distribution.
• Expect additional regulatory dialogue as Project Crypto initiatives are implemented.

Conclusion

SEC delays on staking ETF amendments underscore a cautious regulatory stance even as major asset managers press forward. Ethereum staking ETF proposals from BlackRock, Franklin Templeton, and Fidelity were moved into late October–November review windows, lengthening uncertainty but not halting filings. Watch SEC notices and issuer amendments for the next definitive actions.

Published: September 11, 2025