XRP ETF Delays Continue Amid SEC Review Process

XRP remains at the center of attention in the cryptocurrency world, as yet another proposed XRP ETF faces a delay by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). This continued regulatory hesitation keeps both investors and the broader crypto community on edge, awaiting a final decision that could set the tone for future digital asset investment vehicles in the U.S.

CoinShares, a Jersey-based digital asset management firm, initially submitted a proposal in January to launch a spot XRP exchange-traded fund (ETF). Seeking approval through an S-1 form, the firm aimed to list the ETF on Nasdaq. By February, this intention was confirmed publicly, initiating the SEC’s formal review timeline upon official acknowledgment.

The regulatory process allowed by law gives the SEC 240 days from that acknowledgment to approve or deny the application. However, the recent delay does not signify denial. Instead, it follows a well-observed pattern where the SEC maximizes the review period for crypto-related ETFs. Historically, early approvals have been rare, even when the broader administration appears more supportive of digital currencies.

Several crypto analysts, including Bloomberg experts, suggest these extended delays are typical and do not necessarily reflect skepticism towards XRP or the cryptocurrency market at large. According to these analysts, most of the pending ETF applications, including XRP-based ones, are expected to receive a decision by the end of October, giving rise to a potential Q4 launch window.

This current deferral fuels ongoing speculation around the SEC’s internal stance on XRP. While there is optimism within the crypto community, there’s also cautious acknowledgment of regulatory complexity. Users on prediction platform Polymarket continue to show high confidence that spot XRP ETFs will win approval before year-end, lending hope to XRP enthusiasts.

XRP supporters received a glimmer of progress earlier this week with the debut of a futures-based XRP ETF by Volatility Shares. While this is a different structure compared to a spot ETF, it still represents forward movement in cryptocurrency investment products linked to XRP, suggesting growing mainstream interest and potential regulatory tolerance.

Overall, while delays like these may create frustration among proponents and investors, they also underscore the SEC’s deliberate approach toward ensuring regulatory soundness and investor protection in emerging asset classes. CoinShares and others in the space continue to engage with the SEC as they await final rulings in the coming months.

Related: Expert Advice: Sell XRP If You’re Confused

For now, all eyes remain on the fourth quarter of the year as the likely timeframe when several high-profile crypto ETFs, including XRP proposals, could finally be approved. Until then, XRP’s regulatory journey remains a defining storyline for the asset and its long-term integration into traditional markets.