VanEck and 21Shares are ramping up efforts to introduce Solana-focused ETFs (exchange-traded funds) in the US. These companies filed their proposals with the Chicago Board Options Exchange (Cboe) after previously filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
The filing with Cboe represents progress, as the exchange plays a key role in ensuring these ETFs comply with regulatory and operational standards before being listed on the market.
Solana ETF Momentum Increases Strongly Despite Challenges
VanEck and 21Shares, prominent asset managers, have joined Bitwise and Canary Capital in submit application for Solana ETFs on the Cboe BZX Exchange. Bloomberg ETF analyst James Seyffart confirmed the development in a post early Friday morning on X (formerly Twitter).
“In total, CBOE has submitted applications for 4 Solana ETF funds. One for VanEck, 21Shares Canary Capital and Bitwise. Right now, the ball is in the SEC’s hands,” Seyffart note.
This marks an important development in cryptocurrency investment products, as the proposed ETFs are classified as “commodity-based trust shares” under Rule 14.11(e)(4). . The application is currently awaiting official approval from the SEC.
Cboe’s move to list four Solana ETFs demonstrates its commitment to expanding its crypto products. This proposal is in line with efforts to integrate digital assets into traditional markets. With the pioneering work of VanEck, 21Shares, Bitwise and Canary Capital, the introduction of Solana ETFs could increase the prominence and adoption of this blockchain.
If successful, these filings could strengthen Solana’s position in the crypto ecosystem, potentially boosting liquidity and influencing broader market trends. According to TinTucBitcoin data, Solana’s token is up nearly 10%, amid ETF optimism. As of the time of writing, SOL is trading for $259.20.
VanEck and 21Shares previously filed applications for Solana ETFs with the SEC in June 2024, respectively. These initial applications laid the foundation for recent Cboe applications, which show progress toward regulatory approval. The filing on the Cboe BZX Exchange represents an important step as the exchange reviews compliance and operational standards before listing is possible.
Hope for Solana ETF Now Depends on US SEC
If the SEC formally accepts the proposals, a decision could be made as early as August 2025. The approval would give investors new opportunities to access Solana-related assets through via ETFs, has the potential to increase the influence of this blockchain in the market.
“…if the SEC grants it — it would be around early August,” Seyffart additional.
Meanwhile, Solana continues to attract attention for its speed and scalability as a high-performance blockchain. Interest from major institutions such as VanEck, 21Shares, Bitwise and Canary Capital reflects growing confidence in its potential. Bitwise recently filed an application S-1 registration with the SEC, just one day after the company filed to form a trust entity for the proposed fund in Delaware.
A resurgence of cryptocurrency optimism, partly due to the political comeback of Donald Trump, has boosted confidence in the industry. As the incoming Trump administration focuses on rolling back regulations, this has created hopes for a more favorable environment for crypto innovations, including ETFs.
Although negotiations with the SEC are said to be “progressing” and approval appears within reach, challenges remain. Earlier this year, forms related to Solana ETF filings briefly disappeared from Cboe’s website, raising concerns about process or regulatory hurdles. However, the reappearance of these filings has reassured the market.
The SEC’s decision could set a precedent for future crypto-related ETFs. The approval process requires careful review to ensure investor protection and regulatory compliance. If approved, these ETFs could democratize access to Solana investing, attracting both institutional and individual investors.
Elsewhere, the securities regulator has postponed a decision on Franklin Templeton’s proposed cryptocurrency index fund. Deadline okay report moved to January 6, 2025, citing the SEC’s need for more time for review.