SEC Delays Decision on 21Shares XRP ETF as Approval Hopes Rise

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has postponed its decision on 21Shares’s proposal to launch a spot-based XRP exchange-traded fund (ETF). While the delay might seem concerning to XRP holders, it falls within the agency’s typical review timeline. The SEC has up to 240 days to decide on ETF filings, during which it collects public feedback and examines market data.

21Shares submitted its XRP ETF application on March 11, making the latest delay expected, as the SEC often issues delay notices around 70 days after the initial filing. The agency has also pushed back decisions on other XRP ETF proposals from Franklin Templeton and Bitwise this year. Notably, Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs faced similar delays before eventually receiving approval.

Although no altcoin ETFs, including Solana-based funds, have been approved to date, the growing momentum behind regulated crypto products may change that soon. Earlier this week, the SEC also postponed a ruling on staking within Bitwise’s spot Ethereum ETF, indicating a cautious yet methodical approach to expanding ETF offerings in the crypto space.

Positive signs for XRP ETF approval are building. Regulated XRP futures launched this week, enhancing the token’s institutional credibility. According to Bloomberg, a decision on XRP ETFs could come as early as June, with a strong chance of approval by year-end. Polymarket bettors currently assign an 83% probability that an XRP spot ETF will get the green light in 2025.

Despite delays, growing institutional support and regulatory milestones signal that XRP ETFs may soon join Bitcoin and Ethereum in mainstream financial markets, potentially unlocking new demand and price momentum for XRP.