October 2025 is set to be a significant month for crypto markets, as the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) approaches final deadlines on 16 exchange-traded fund (ETF) applications. Distinct from previous batches, many of these proposals extend beyond Bitcoin and Ether, focusing on altcoins such as Solana, XRP, and Litecoin.
This week on “Byte-Sized Insight,” we delve into what differentiates this round of filings, how the SEC’s perspective may be evolving, and the implications of potential approvals for investors and the wider crypto landscape.
A new SEC era
On Sept. 17, the SEC sanctioned a set of “generic listing standards” for exchange-traded products linked to spot commodities, including digital assets. Analysts indicate this move could significantly streamline the ETF approval process, minimizing the need for individualized rule changes that have historically hindered crypto’s integration into mainstream financial products.
The change is occurring against a different political backdrop than in past years. Grayscale’s research director, Zach Pandl, informed Cointelegraph in the episode that the advent of the Trump administration has generated momentum for clearer regulations.
“President Trump and the Trump administration came into office with a mandate from voters to bring regulatory clarity to the crypto industry in the US,” Pandl remarked. “It’s truly been a comprehensive government effort. Whether it’s the White House or Congress or the SEC, it’s simply responding to that message from voters.”
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He further stated that bipartisan support has instilled confidence in both businesses and investors that crypto “is very much here to stay, for the long run in the US.”
Demand beyond Bitcoin
The critical inquiry is the actual demand for altcoin ETFs. Bloomberg Intelligence ETF analyst James Seyffart noted in the episode that Solana and XRP stand out due to their existing futures markets, but he cautioned against anticipating Bitcoin-level inflows.
“They will perform reasonably well in terms of flows and AUM,” Seyffart commented, “but the long-term growth narrative may lie in basket or index products.”
Pandl echoed this perspective, highlighting Grayscale’s new diversified index fund. “We’re excited not only to be launching these single-asset ETPs but also the first diversified index-based crypto ETP, essentially a one-stop shop solution for crypto exposure in a portfolio,” he stated.
What comes next?
Seyffart noted that approval could unleash rapid product expansion, adding:
“You’re going to see innovations like staking Solana ETFs, covered call ETFs, leveraged and inverse products. … It’s going to get wild.”
Whether October leads to immediate market inflows or lays the groundwork for future growth, analysts concur that the regulatory climate has transformed. For the first time, altcoin ETFs seem closer than ever to integration into mainstream US markets.
Listen to the full episode of “Byte-Sized Insight” for the complete interview on Cointelegraph’s Podcasts page, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. And be sure to explore Cointelegraph’s comprehensive lineup of additional shows!
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