Rule 6c-11 is a new SEC listing standard that cuts ETF review timelines to as little as 75 days, enabling faster approvals for commodity-based crypto ETFs and allowing major exchanges to list spot crypto funds like XRP, Solana, Litecoin and more.
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SEC shortens ETF review from ~240 to 75 days under Rule 6c-11
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Major exchanges (Nasdaq, NYSE Arca, Cboe BZX) can list eligible crypto ETFs under the new standard.
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Pending spot ETF filings for XRP, Solana, Dogecoin and Litecoin may advance faster under the streamlined framework.
Rule 6c-11 crypto ETFs: SEC approval speeds listings, widening investor access and accelerating product launches — read how this affects spot ETFs and market structure.
What is Rule 6c-11 and how does it speed crypto ETF approvals?
Rule 6c-11 is an SEC generic listing standard that lets exchanges adopt rules to list commodity-based trust shares without a full 19b-4 review, cutting the review window to about 75 days. This change streamlines listings for eligible crypto ETFs, increasing the pace of product launches and investor choice.
How do exchanges use the new listing standard?
Exchanges such as Nasdaq, NYSE Arca, and Cboe BZX may list eligible products under Rule 6c-11 by adopting uniform rules and surveillance-sharing agreements. Products must track commodities traded on monitored markets or be based on regulated futures to qualify. Where conditions aren’t met, exchanges still file additional rules for review.
Why does the SEC say this change is necessary?
The SEC approved Rule 6c-11 to provide a consistent, expedited pathway for commodity-tracking ETFs, citing the need to keep U.S. capital markets competitive for digital asset innovation. The agency found good cause to accelerate approvals for certain products, shortening process times while aiming to preserve investor safeguards.
What industry experts and officials said
SEC Chair Paul Atkins said the standard helps U.S. markets support digital asset innovation. Market analysts described the framework as the long-awaited structure for crypto exchange-traded products. SEC Commissioner Caroline Crenshaw cautioned on investor protections, illustrating the debate between expansion and oversight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which crypto ETFs could benefit immediately from Rule 6c-11?
Several pending spot ETF filings, including proposals referencing XRP, Solana, Dogecoin and Litecoin, may now progress more quickly under the shortened review timeline provided they meet the rule’s eligibility criteria.
How long will ETF reviews take under the new standard?
Under Rule 6c-11, the SEC’s review and listing process can be reduced to about 75 days from the longer 19b-4 process that could extend to roughly 240 days, depending on filings and exchange conditions.
How will markets and investors be affected?
Front-loading product approvals can increase market competition and investor choice for spot crypto ETFs. Faster listings may lead to more diversified fund offerings and potentially improved liquidity in secondary markets. Exchanges and issuers must still meet surveillance and compliance requirements to protect investors.
What are the risks and oversight considerations?
While the rule accelerates listings, regulators and some commissioners noted the importance of investor safeguards. Concerns center on market surveillance, custody practices, and product disclosures for retail investors in volatile digital assets.
Key Takeaways
- Faster approvals: Rule 6c-11 cuts standard review timelines to ~75 days.
- Broader listings: Major exchanges can list eligible commodity-based crypto ETFs.
- Qualified products: Only funds meeting surveillance and market criteria qualify for the accelerated pathway.
Conclusion
The SEC’s adoption of Rule 6c-11 marks a structural shift that shortens review times and clears a faster path for certain crypto ETFs. Market participants should watch exchange rule adoptions and pending filings as issuers move to leverage the streamlined process. For investors, the change increases product access while underscoring the need for careful due diligence.
Published: 2025-09-18 | Updated: 2025-09-18 | Author: COINOTAG
