SEC Flags Legal Concerns Over Ethereum, Solana ETFs
SEC questions Ethereum and Solana ETF proposals, citing issues with staking and investment company classification.

- SEC scrutinizes Ethereum and Solana ETF filings.
- Concerns focus on staking and fund classification.
- Regulatory clarity remains a key hurdle for crypto ETFs.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is raising concerns about proposed spot exchange-traded funds (ETFs) based on Ethereum and Solana. According to recent reports, the SEC is particularly focused on whether staking services associated with these assets violate U.S. securities laws.
Staking allows investors to earn rewards by locking up their crypto holdings to support network operations. However, the SEC believes this mechanism might resemble investment contracts—potentially bringing these ETFs under stricter regulatory scrutiny. This is a major sticking point in the approval process, as it challenges the very structure of how these funds plan to generate returns.
Investment Company Status in Question
Another issue the SEC is evaluating is whether these ETFs might be classified as investment companies under U.S. law. If so, they would fall under the Investment Company Act of 1940, triggering a separate and more complex regulatory framework.
The agency is reportedly reviewing whether the underlying assets and the fund’s operations align with current legal definitions. This added layer of complexity could delay or even derail the approval process, even as interest in crypto-based ETFs continues to grow.
What This Means for Crypto Investors
The SEC’s ongoing review is a reminder of the uncertain regulatory environment surrounding crypto ETFs. While the recent approval of Bitcoin ETFs brought optimism, Ethereum and Solana face different challenges due to their staking models and network governance structures.
Investors and industry watchers will be closely monitoring how the SEC navigates these issues, as the outcome could set important precedents for the broader crypto market. Until clearer guidelines are established, ETF proposals involving proof-of-stake assets like Ethereum and Solana may continue to face uphill battles.
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