Bloomberg ETF analyst Eric Balchunas has shared insights following reports that the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has rejected filings for Solana spot exchange-traded funds (ETFs).
The SEC informed at least two of five prospective issuers that their applications under the 19b-4 rule will not be approved. This decision has dampened optimism around Solana ETFs, with analysts suggesting potential changes after new SEC leadership takes over in early 2024.
Bloomberg Analyst Stance On SEC Reject of Solana ETF
The SEC has reportedly communicated its decision to at least two out of five applicants for Solana spot ETFs, signaling a lack of approval under the current administration. According to Bloomberg’s Eric Balchunas, this outcome aligns with the broader regulatory stance seen during Gary Gensler’s tenure as SEC Chair.
Industry insiders have noted that the SEC is unlikely to approve new cryptocurrency ETFs under the current regulatory framework. Balchunas highlighted that this development is consistent with the SEC’s cautious approach to cryptocurrency ETFs, saying,
“No surprise here. Crypto spot ETFs are on pause until new leadership steps in.”
Among the applicants for Solana ETFs were major asset management firms like VanEck, 21Shares, and Canary Capital, all of which had filed 19b-4 forms earlier in 2023. Analysts believe these denials reflect the broader reluctance of the SEC to expand ETF approvals beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum products.
Will New US SEC Chair Paul Atkins Fuel Approval?
Crypto market participants are now turning their focus to January 2024, when new SEC leadership under Paul Atkins is expected to take office. Atkins, who has been nominated by President-elect Donald Trump to replace Gensler, is considered more favorable to cryptocurrency markets.
Balchunas suggested that issuers will likely refile their Solana ETF applications once the leadership transition occurs, with hopes that the regulatory environment will shift. “This is a waiting game now,” he added. Historical patterns also suggest that multiple crypto ETFs are often approved simultaneously, as seen with Bitcoin ETFs.
Industry leaders, including Nate Geraci, President of the ETF Store, share similar sentiments. Geraci commented, “We’re not expecting any approvals until the new administration is in place. Current leadership is in lame-duck mode.” The possibility of widespread approval for crypto ETFs, including Solana, has kept optimism alive despite short-term setbacks.
Solana Price Consolidates, Price To Rally?
The news of the SEC rejecting Solana ETF filings comes as Solana’s native token, SOL, continues to consolidate in a narrow price range. After a strong rally earlier this year, SOL price has been trading near $240, with resistance around $300.
Market analysts are closely monitoring Solana’s performance, which remains buoyed by positive sentiment and growing institutional interest.
Some traders predict that Solana’s price could break out of its current range as broader cryptocurrency markets strengthen. However, the lack of ETF approval may temporarily slow Solana’s upward momentum.
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