Dogecoin ETF Approval Window Opens: Bitwise’s Bold 8(a) Move Puts Pressure on SEC

Jim Haastrup
7 Min Read

The Dogecoin ETF approval timeline officially begins as Bitwise triggers a 20-day countdown ending November 26, forcing the SEC to intervene or allow automatic approval. By removing the delaying amendment under Section 8(a), Bitwise demonstrates confidence that regulators will treat Dogecoin like Bitcoin and Ethereum, potentially opening Wall Street access to the popular meme coin.

Key Insights

  • Bitwise’s Dogecoin ETF could go live by November 26 unless the SEC intervenes within the next few weeks.
  • The company recently removed a delaying amendment, triggering a 20-day countdown under Section 8(a) of the Securities Act.
  • Analysts believe that the SEC will not stop it, following its recent approval streak for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana ETFs.

The Dogecoin ETF approval timeline is now official, as Bitwise Asset Management has taken a decisive step toward bringing Dogecoin to Wall Street. The company’s latest filing shows that its proposed spot Dogecoin ETF could become effective around November 26, unless the US SEC intervenes.

This Dogecoin ETF approval timeline gives the SEC limited time to act. 

If the agency remains silent, the Bitwise Dogecoin ETF will automatically go live. This strategy shows a great deal of confidence in Dogecoin as a mature digital asset.

Dogecoin ETF Approval Timeline: How Bitwise Forces the SEC’s Hand

The filing uses a regulatory process called the Section 8(a) pathway under the US Securities Act of 1933. 

Normally, ETF applications include a “delaying amendment” specification, which gives the SEC control over when approval happens. Bitwise removed that clause in its latest submission, which means that the filing will become effective automatically after 20 days unless the SEC stops it.

Since Bitwise made its filing on November 6, the countdown ends on or around November 26. 

This decision puts pressure on the SEC to act fast if it wants to delay or deny the product.

The strategy is similar to moves used earlier in the year during the successful rollout of spot Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs. Analysts believe Bitwise’s action shows confidence that it has addressed all regulatory concerns. 

The company seems to be certain that the SEC will allow the ETF to proceed without interference.

Why the SEC Likely Won’t Intervene

Market observers say the SEC has little reason to block this product. Bloomberg ETF analyst Eric Balchunas explained that Bitwise’s use of the 8(a) mechanism shows trust that the Commission will stand down.

The SEC’s stance on crypto ETFs has changed by a great deal in recent years. Spot Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs already trade on major exchanges and the Commission also recently approved funds tied to altcoins such as Solana (SOL), Litecoin (LTC) and Hedera (HBAR). 

In other words, blocking Dogecoin now would require a strong legal justification for treating it differently.

Why Does Dogecoin Fit the ETF Model?

Dogecoin started as a joke, but its status today is anything but comedic. It is now one of the world’s largest cryptocurrencies by market capitalization and consistently ranks in the top ten. 

Daily trading volumes are often higher than several billion dollars, and its liquidity levels rival those of established assets.

Bitwise Chief Investment Officer Matt Hougan has been a big supporter of Dogecoin’s readiness for institutional investment. He argues that DOGE combines deep liquidity, strong brand recognition and an active global community. All of these are factors that make it suitable for regulated products.

The proposed ETF, which is expected to trade under the ticker BWOW, will carry a management fee of 0.34%. 

Bitwise also plans to waive this fee for the first few months to attract investors. The pricing structure makes it one of the most affordable crypto ETFs currently proposed.

How the Dogecoin ETF Approval Timeline Could Impact Markets?

If the Bitwise Dogecoin ETF launches, it would be a major milestone for the digital asset market. It would confirm Dogecoin’s place among the limited group of cryptocurrencies with approved spot ETFs.

This launch would also show a clear difference between well-established, high-liquidity coins like DOGE and smaller, unproven ones. Analysts believe it could lead to faster approval for other altcoin ETFs, including pending applications from Grayscale and REX-Osprey.

A successful launch could bring new inflows of institutional capital. More regulated access means traditional financial advisors and investment firms can include Dogecoin exposure in diversified portfolios. 

Such inflows could also stabilize Dogecoin’s price, which has historically been volatile.

Why This Move Matters Beyond Dogecoin?

Bitwise’s decision to remove the delaying amendment goes beyond one product. It shows a change in how asset managers engage with the SEC. By initiating the 20-day countdown, Bitwise is basically challenging the agency to justify any further delays.

This approach shows confidence across the crypto investment sector. As more spot ETFs gain approval, the regulatory barriers that once slowed the market’s expansion will continue to fall.

Dogecoin’s journey from a meme coin to a regulated financial product shows how far digital assets have come. What began as an internet joke now stands on the verge of institutional legitimacy.

Disclaimer: Voice of Crypto aims to deliver accurate and up-to-date information, but it will not be responsible for any missing facts or inaccurate information. Cryptocurrencies are highly volatile financial assets, so research and make your own financial decisions.

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