SECGeneralJuly 2, 2026

SEC Seeks Public Comment on ETFs Holding Novel Assets Like Crypto

The SEC is requesting public comment on ETFs that invest in innovative or novel asset classes — a category that includes crypto and digital assets — and new investment strategies, aiming to balance investor protection with market innovation. Compliance officers at firms involved in digital asset ETFs or considering such products should monitor this closely, as SEC feedback may shape future registration, disclosure, and structural requirements. Responses submitted now could influence the regulatory framework governing crypto ETF structures.

What to do

Review the SEC's request for comment, assess your firm's exposure to novel ETF structures (including any crypto or digital asset ETF products), and consider submitting a comment letter before the deadline.

Who this affects

Crypto ExchangeCrypto CustodianBroker-Dealer / RIATrust CompanyOther

Does this affect your program?

Pick your institution type for an instant read on whether you're in scope — then see exactly which sections of your own policies this changes.

Source

Read the official publication

This radar entry is educational and does not constitute legal advice. Summaries are AI-assisted and grounded in the linked official source; always verify against the primary source and consult qualified legal counsel for jurisdiction-specific guidance.

Related developments

SEC

SEC Proposes Modernized Rules for Registered Transfer Agents

The SEC is proposing to overhaul the regulatory framework governing registered transfer agents, including new rules, amendments to existing rules, and updates to registration and reporting forms (Form TA-1 and Form TA-2). Crypto and fintech firms that act as — or rely on — transfer agents for digital securities should pay close attention, as modernized rules could reshape recordkeeping, operational, and compliance obligations in that space. Trust companies and broker-dealers involved in securities processing may also face updated requirements.

OCC

OCC Proposes Two-Tier Framework for Violations: Substantive vs. Technical

The OCC is proposing to split regulatory violations into 'substantive' and 'technical' categories to better calibrate supervisory responses, including when Matters Requiring Attention (MRAs) are issued. For banks and trust companies engaged in crypto or fintech activities, this could affect how examiners escalate findings related to BSA/AML, KYC, or digital asset compliance gaps. Comment period is open, giving institutions an opportunity to shape the final framework.

OCC

OCC Revises Enforcement Action and MRA Policies and Procedures

The OCC has released updated internal policy manuals governing how bank enforcement actions and Matters Requiring Attention (MRAs) are issued and managed. These revisions signal a shift toward greater consistency and transparency in how the OCC responds to supervisory findings, which is directly relevant to banks and trust companies navigating crypto, BSA/AML, and fintech-related examination findings. Compliance officers should review the updated PPMs to anticipate examiner expectations.

OCC

OCC Announces Clearer, More Consistent Enforcement and Supervisory Standards

The OCC announced coordinated actions to improve transparency in how it issues MRAs and enforcement actions, including two revised policy manuals and a proposed rule change to the violations framework. For banks and trust companies—including those offering crypto custody or digital asset services—this means greater predictability in how examination findings will be escalated. Compliance teams should treat this as an opportunity to reassess their internal remediation and examiner-relations processes.

Stay ahead of every rule change

PliOS monitors FinCEN, OCC, OFAC, the SEC and CFTC and tells you which of your policies each new rule affects — with the edit already drafted. Start free.

Run My Free Assessment