October Becomes ‘ETF Month’ With 16 Crypto ETFs Awaiting SEC Ruling

The crypto market is approaching a crucial moment as the SEC prepares to rule on 16 cryptocurrency ETFs in October. These decisions could reshape how investors access major altcoins such as Solana, XRP, Litecoin, and Dogecoin. With deadlines scheduled throughout the month, anticipation is high. The final outcomes could be announced at any time before each deadline, and the effects of approval or rejection on the market could be substantial.

Potential ETF Approvals in October

The potential ETF approvals in October begin with Canary’s Litecoin spot ETF, with a decision expected by October 2. Following that, Grayscale’s applications to convert its Solana and Litecoin trusts will reach their deadlines on October 10. The schedule includes several ETFs for other major cryptocurrencies, ending with WisdomTree’s XRP fund on October 24, according to Bloomberg ETF analyst James Seyffart.

The SEC’s timeline reflects a broader move toward formalizing crypto investment products in the United States. Earlier in 2025, the regulator delayed decisions on multiple filings. Recent policy changes, including a new listing standard for commodity-based trust shares announced on September 17, suggest a more supportive approach. This could streamline the launch of future spot crypto ETFs and pave the way for more offerings in the coming months.

Analysts say these ETFs could give investors a way to access altcoins with less risk than buying them directly. Bitfinex analysts noted in August that approvals might spark renewed interest in altcoins, as ETFs are easier for both retail and institutional investors. More regulated options could also improve market sentiment, especially for coins with volatility or liquidity issues.

How Experts Are Viewing October ETFs?

Industry experts are calling October a critical month for crypto. Nate Geraci, president of NovaDius Wealth Management, described it on X as an “enormous next few weeks for spot crypto ETFs,” pointing to a series of upcoming deadlines. Similarly, crypto trader Daan Crypto Trades referred to the month as “ETF month,” noting that major firms like Fidelity and BlackRock are not yet part of the current schedule.

The possible approval of these ETFs has sparked debate about timing and investment strategy. In traditional finance, new ETF launches often bring short-term inflows as investors look for easier ways to gain exposure. The crypto market could see a comparable response, although analysts warn that results are uncertain. Traders are closely watching both price movements and trading volume across exchanges.

Seyffart, who tracks ETF filings, estimates that the SEC’s chance of approving these October ETFs in 2025 remains over 90%. This level of confidence reflects growing institutional acceptance of crypto investment tools and signals a regulatory shift toward structured, transparent market access.

Changes in SEC Policy and What They Mean

The SEC’s actions go beyond immediate market effects and hint at wider changes in U.S. crypto regulation. Shorter review times and more flexible listing rules show a careful but constructive approach. Experts like Eric Balchunas note that many coins with Coinbase futures may soon be eligible for spot ETFs, which could bring many new products to the market.

Crypto firms are reacting. Hashdex, for instance, expanded its ETF to include XRP, Solana, and Stellar after the updates. This indicates that companies are preparing for a market where ETFs are central, combining crypto access with regulated protections.

ETFs do not remove all risks, but they give both retail and institutional investors a clear way to participate. Overall, these approvals could make crypto investing more normal, increase liquidity, and attract cautious investors.

Why Does It Matter?

October’s SEC decisions on crypto ETFs could be an important moment for the market. If approved, these ETFs would make it easier for retail and institutional investors to buy major altcoins through regulated products. This could increase market participation, improve liquidity, and give altcoins a more stable base

These approvals also show a shift in U.S. regulation toward supporting structured crypto investment options. While prices may not jump immediately, more ETFs set the stage for long-term growth and greater confidence in digital assets.