US government shutdown halts IPO approvals, creates market volatility
The US government shutdown that began on October 1, 2025, has put a pause on IPO approvals and created volatility in markets and delayed some market functions such as IPO approvals and economic data releases.
With over 90% of SEC staff furloughed—leaving just about 393 people for emergencies—companies hoping to go public are stuck waiting.
Key economic data releases are delayed
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) is also running with a skeleton crew, and the government shutdown means key economic data releases are delayed.
That's made markets more jumpy: Wall Street futures and the dollar have dropped, while gold prices hit record highs.
Crypto-focused ETFs expected this month are also facing hold-ups thanks to the shutdown.
Everyone's playing the waiting game
Before the shutdown, the SEC told companies to get their filings in early if they were close to ready.
EDGAR—the online filing system—is still working and accepting documents, but there won't be reviews or approvals until things return to normal.
So for now, everyone's playing the waiting game.