SEC Postpones Grayscale’s Polkadot ETF Decision to June 2025

Grayscale Investments, a major digital asset manager, aims to convert its Polkadot Trust into an ETF, seeking listing on Nasdaq. The SEC cites a need for “sufficient time” to evaluate the proposal. “The Commission finds it appropriate to designate a longer period within which to take action on the proposed rule change so that it has sufficient time to consider the proposed rule change and the issues raised therein.” – Sherry R. Haywood, Assistant Secretary, U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

Involved parties include Nasdaq, which filed for the ETF , and competing managers like 21Shares. The SEC’s extended review is standard for digital asset ETFs.

The decision maintains the status quo for Polkadot’s DOT token, with no immediate shifts in total value locked (TVL) or liquidity. Stakeholder anticipation remains as regulatory evaluation persists.

Analysts note unchanged financial and market conditions for now, while institutional focus on Polkadot and similar altcoin ETFs strengthens despite regulatory delays. As noted by Eric Balchunas , “Asset managers are pitching ETFs for ‘[e]verything from XRP, Litecoin and Solana to Penguins, Doge and 2x Melania and everything in between.'”

Regulatory caution parallels past extensions for crypto asset ETFs. Similar delays have historically occurred with approvals, notably affecting assets beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum.

Anticipated outcomes suggest further institutional engagement with Polkadot ETFs could ensue, given existing interest and evolving regulatory dynamics. Further approvals could progressively shift market sentiment.