NYSE Arca's Bitcoin Trust Options Rules Face SEC Delay

2026-17183, Regulation Crypto Assets

The Securities and Exchange Commission ("Commission") is proposing new rules to create a tailored offering regime for certain investment contracts involving crypto assets. The proposed offering regime is intended to facilitate capital formation and accommodate innovation within the crypto asset markets while, at the same time, ensuring that investors are adequately protected and provided with the information they need to make informed investment decisions. The proposed rules would be set forth in a new regulation titled "Regulation Crypto Assets" and would include two exemptions from the registration requirements of section 5 of the Securities Act of 1933. The first exemption would permit offerings of up to $5 million during a four-year period. The second exemption would permit offerings of up to $75 million during each 12-month period. Under both exemptions, issuers would be required to make certain principles-based narrative disclosures available to their investors. In addition, issuers under the second exemption would be required to provide financial statements and would be subject to ongoing reporting requirements. Issuers that rely on these exemptions would remain subject to the antifraud and antimanipulation provisions of the Federal securities laws. The proposed rules also would include a conditional safe harbor from the term "investment contract" in the definitions of "security" in the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. If the conditions of that proposed safe harbor are satisfied, then a crypto asset would be deemed not to be subject to an investment contract for purposes of those definitions of "security."

2026-12163, The Trade-Through Rule and Locked and Crossed Markets Provisions of Regulation NMS

The SEC wants to scrap some old rules that stop stocks from being traded at worse prices and prevent confusing market quotes. This change affects stock traders and exchanges, aiming to simplify trading and possibly speed things up. If you want to share your thoughts, you’ve got until August 17, 2026, so don’t miss out!

2026-10373, Registered Offering Reform

The SEC wants to make it easier and cheaper for more companies to sell their stocks and bonds to the public. They’re opening up special forms and benefits to more businesses, updating rules to be more modern, and cutting red tape by overriding some state rules. If you’re a company planning to raise money, these changes could speed things up and save you money, with feedback due by July 27, 2026.

2026-10222, Enhancement of Emerging Growth Company Accommodations and Simplification of Filer Status for Reporting Companies

The SEC is making it easier for companies that report their finances by simplifying their categories into just two groups: big and small filers. Smaller companies, including emerging growth ones, will get more time to file reports and enjoy simpler rules, while big companies keep stricter standards. These changes aim to save time and money, with feedback open until July 20, 2026.

2026-07651, Concept Release on Consolidated Audit Trail and Other Audit Trails and Data Sources

The SEC wants your thoughts on how it tracks stock market trades using the Consolidated Audit Trail and other data tools. They’re thinking about updating rules to keep up with new tech, privacy, and security needs, and to make sure the system is fair and cost-effective. If you’re involved in the stock market or data tracking, speak up by June 22, 2026!

2026-05635, Application of the Federal Securities Laws to Certain Types of Crypto Assets and Certain Transactions Involving Crypto Assets

Starting March 23, 2026, the SEC and CFTC are making it clear that some crypto assets and transactions must follow federal securities laws. This means crypto companies and investors need to play by new rules to keep things fair and safe. Expect more transparency and possible costs for compliance as the government steps up oversight in the crypto world.

Previous: 2025-04349, Self-Regulatory Organizations; Nasdaq ISE, LLC; Notice of Designation of a Longer Period for Commission Action on a Proposed Rule Change To Amend Options 4, Section 3, Criteria for Underlying Securities

Nasdaq ISE wants to update its rules to allow options trading on special units tied to commodity-based trusts. The SEC is taking extra time, now until May 27, 2025, to review this change carefully. This affects traders and investors who deal with options and could open new ways to invest in commodities through options.

Next: 2025-04351, Self-Regulatory Organizations; NYSE Arca, Inc.; Notice of Designation of a Longer Period for Commission Action on a Proposed Rule Change, as Modified by Amendment No. 1, To Amend Rules Regarding the Position and Exercise Limits for Options on the Grayscale Bitcoin Mini Trust and the Bitwise Bitcoin ETF and To Permit Flexible Exchange Options on the Grayscale Bitcoin Mini Trust and the Bitwise Bitcoin ETF

The SEC is taking extra time to review NYSE Arca’s plan to change rules for trading options on the Grayscale Bitcoin Mini Trust and Bitwise Bitcoin ETF. These changes would adjust how many options traders can hold and allow more flexible trading on these Bitcoin-related funds. This affects investors and traders dealing with these options and could impact how they manage their trades and risks soon.