- The SEC delays spot XRP ETF decisions until October 2025.
- New standards allow expedited ETF approval.
- Spot ETFs depend on market readiness and compliance.
The launch of the first U.S. spot XRP ETF is unlikely before October 2025 as the SEC reviews applications under its new expedited guidelines.
This timing affects XRP and related cryptocurrencies like ETH and SOL, potentially altering their market positioning based on regulatory decisions.
The First Spot XRP ETF Decision Delayed by SEC
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has postponed any decisions regarding the first US spot XRP ETF until October 2025. The SEC has introduced new Listing Standards allowing accelerated crypto ETF approvals if futures trading criteria are met.
Commissioner Hester Peirce, known for a crypto-friendly stance, leads the regulatory process. The SEC is reviewing applications from Cboe BZX Exchange and NYSE Arca to list XRP ETFs, with decisions pending by October.
The introduction of these standards could significantly influence the value of XRP and other cryptocurrencies like ETH, SOL, and DOGE, potentially eligible for expedited approval. However, no specific on-chain data or major institutional inflows have been reported yet.
The approved ProShares Ultra XRP ETF on NYSE Arca is the only active U.S. XRP ETF, offering leveraged and inverse strategies. This is part of a broader regulatory trend mirroring the Canadian model, which successfully launched XRP ETFs earlier in 2025. Eric Balchunas, Senior ETF Analyst at Bloomberg, noted, “
The SEC’s ‘Listing Standards’ for crypto ETPs is out via new exchange filing. BOTTOM LINE: Any coin that has futures tracking it for >6mo on Coinbase’s derivatives exchange would be approved…“.
Historical precedents from Canada highlight a smoother adoption process. This sets a framework for regulatory strategy in the U.S., aiming to avoid past missteps encountered with Bitcoin ETFs. No governance or DeFi tokens are currently affected.
Outcomes could impact the strategic direction of crypto markets, with delayering of ETF approval timelines depending on market stability and the fulfillment of regulatory requirements. Historical data from other regions aids this comprehensive regulatory assessment.
