SEC filings continue to highlight growing institutional interest in cryptocurrencies outside of Bitcoin.
Over the past few months, the number of filings has increased, reflecting demand for Ethereum, Cardano, and Dogecoin through investment products and ETFs.
Institutional focus shifts toward legacy Altcoins
The rise in US Securities and Exchange Commission filings indicates that institutions are focusing more on legacy altcoins. Most filings target Ethereum and Cardano, with Dogecoin also drawing attention. These assets are viewed as more established due to their liquidity, exchange listings, and community engagement. According to Alphractal, up to 72 new funds are currently proposed and awaiting regulatory feedback. While not all filings indicate upcoming ETFs, the mentions are a sign of shifting strategies within the institutional investment landscape.
Alphractal monitors references to digital assets in SEC documentation, including proposals and other investment-related materials. Ethereum staking options are also a growing point of interest, with some proposed ETFs aiming to incorporate passive income models. Altcoins from earlier market cycles remain the top choice due to their visibility and perceived stability.
Crypto exposure expands among institutional investors
A recent Coinbase institutional survey reveals that over 75% of respondents plan to increase their crypto exposure during 2025. This growth reflects a wider acceptance of digital assets, although institutions remain cautious. Direct investment in altcoins is rare, with most firms preferring stablecoins or tokenized assets to manage risk. Access remains limited, with up to $31 trillion in wealth management funds reportedly restricted from engaging with BTC ETFs.
The interest shown in SEC filings does not guarantee that all products will be approved or that market momentum will follow. However, the shift in focus does indicate broader recognition of altcoin potential, especially among legacy assets that meet basic institutional standards.
Altcoin season still absent despite ETF interest
The number of filed applications rises but market indicators show that a complete altcoin market surge has not occurred. Market analysis shows an ongoing low point for the Altcoin Season Index which stands currently at 12 points. Top alternative coins have not managed to return to prior peak levels even as meme tokens generate increasing trading volumes. Institutions prefer to use established assets which have established longer historical performance records. Grayscale, one of the most active altcoin investment product providers, has noted that its products do not always mirror actual market prices. The LTCN ETP, tied to Litecoin, currently trades at a discount compared to the spot LTC price of $84.78, with the fund reflecting a lower equivalent of $64.