With a Key Amendment, Bitwise’ Dogecoin and Aptos ETFs Closer to SEC Approval

• Bitwise’s amended Dogecoin ETF filing includes in-kind mechanisms, signaling progress
• SEC engagement and 19b-4 filings hint at faster approval for Dogecoin ETFs
• Analysts raise Dogecoin ETF approval odds to 90%, citing market and SEC momentum

Bitwise Asset Management has taken a notable step forward in the race for cryptocurrency ETFs, filing amended S-1 registration statements for its proposed Dogecoin and Aptos spot ETFs. 

The move, which signals active dialogue with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), has fueled market optimism that regulatory approval for altcoin ETFs may be much closer than previously expected.

What Do the Amended Filings Reveal?

The updated S-1 filings show that Bitwise has made key structural changes based on feedback from regulators. One of the most important additions is the inclusion of in-kind creations and redemptions for the Dogecoin ETF. This move is significant, as it aligns with features approved in previous spot crypto ETFs, reducing reliance on cash transactions and minimizing market friction.

Related: SEC Extends Review for Polkadot, Hedera, and Bitwise Crypto ETF Proposals

Notably, this is a departure from Bitwise’s earlier filing in January, which lacked this mechanism. According to Bloomberg Senior ETF Analyst Eric Balchunas, the update is a strong indication of SEC feedback. It also brings Bitwise’s approach in line with recent trends in ETF approvals. 

While the Aptos ETF has not yet received a 19b-4 filing, the New York Stock Exchange has already filed one for Dogecoin. This difference is important because the 19b-4 filing officially initiates the SEC’s review process.

Related: Asset Manager Bitwise Explores NEAR ETF with New Delaware Registration

How Close Is a Dogecoin ETF Approval?

The latest progress has dramatically increased analyst confidence. Balchunas, alongside fellow Bloomberg analyst James Seyffart, has raised the odds of a Dogecoin ETF approval to 90%. They believe it is now a question of “when,” not “if.” 

This level of confidence highlights the growing maturity of crypto ETF proposals and the likelihood of regulatory progress. The final deadline for SEC approval is set for October 17, giving the commission several months to finalize its decision.

Who Else Is in the Race?

Bitwise is not alone in its pursuit of a Dogecoin ETF. Other major asset managers, including Grayscale and 21Shares, have also submitted their own proposals to the SEC. With multiple firms now in the running and an ongoing, active dialogue with regulators, the path to approval appears increasingly clear. 

The final deadline for the SEC to make its decision is set for October 17, giving the commission several months to finalize the rules for this new class of digital asset products.