Will the SEC ETF Approval Trend End After XRP ETF?

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has rapidly expanded its review of cryptocurrency exchange-traded fund (ETF) applications. With Ripple’s XRP now at the forefront of this trend, analysts are asking whether an XRP ETF could mark the high point—or the turning point—for crypto-based ETFs.

While some market observers believe that SEC approval would trigger unprecedented institutional inflows, others warn that an XRP ETF may not live up to expectations. The debate raises an important question: Will the SEC ETF approval trend end after XRP?

XRP ETFs: Optimism vs. Skepticism

The Bullish Case

Supporters highlight XRP’s established role in cross-border payments and financial services. According to Canary Capital’s Steven McClurg, an XRP ETF could attract $5 billion in inflows in its first month, rivaling Ethereum in market appeal. 

This bullish view suggests that institutional investors may see XRP as a bridge currency with real-world utility.

The Bearish Case

On the other hand, analysts like AdrianoFeria.eth remain unconvinced. He warned that “Ripple ETFs will most likely mark the beginning of the end for XRP,” citing doubts about institutional demand. 

Critics argue that unlike Bitcoin as “digital gold” or Ethereum as the foundation of decentralized applications, XRP lacks a compelling narrative to sustain long-term interest.

READ ALSO: XRP ETF Speculation Builds - What It Could Mean for Price in 2025

The SEC’s Expanding ETF Pipeline

The SEC currently has 92 pending crypto ETF applications, covering not only XRP and Solana but also Cardano, Dogecoin, Avalanche, Hedera, and meme tokens like Bonk. This reflects the agency’s growing engagement with digital assets as part of mainstream finance.

ETF analysts suggest approval is less a matter of “if” and more of “when.” James Seyffart, a leading ETF strategist, has estimated 95% odds of approval in 2025 for XRP, Solana, and Litecoin ETFs, with similarly high odds for others. Several final deadlines are set for October 2025, forcing the SEC’s hand on critical decisions.

Ripple, XRP, and Institutional Appetite

The SEC vs. Ripple battle has already shaped the trajectory of XRP in U.S. markets. With regulatory clarity on the horizon, an XRP ETF would mark a milestone not just for Ripple but for the crypto sector at large.

However, whether institutions will embrace XRP in significant numbers remains an open question. If the ETF performs strongly, it could encourage the SEC to approve more crypto ETFs. If not, XRP could be remembered as the point where the ETF approval trend peaked.

READ ALSO: Canada Approves First XRP Spot ETF: Trading Starts June 18

Conclusion

The arrival of an XRP ETF sits at the crossroads of optimism and doubt. On one side, predictions of multi-billion inflows highlight XRP’s utility in financial services. On the other, skepticism about institutional appetite could limit its impact.

The SEC’s role is pivotal: its decisions on XRP and the 92 other pending applications will shape the future of crypto ETFs. Whether the trend continues or cools after XRP depends largely on how investors respond. For now, the world is watching.

For more in-depth crypto market updates and predictions, check out the latest posts on the Bitrue blog — or explore trading directly on Bitrue’s platform.

FAQ

How many crypto ETF applications are pending with the SEC?

As of August 2025, there are 92 applications under review, including XRP, Solana, Cardano, Dogecoin, and others.

What did Canary Capital say about XRP ETFs?

Steven McClurg projected that XRP ETFs could see $5 billion in first-month inflows, rivaling Ethereum’s institutional demand.

Why are some analysts skeptical of XRP ETFs?

Analyst AdrianoFeria.eth argued that XRP lacks strong institutional interest, warning ETFs could mark “the beginning of the end” for the token.

When could the SEC make a final decision on XRP ETFs?

Several final deadlines fall in October 2025, which may bring definitive answers on XRP and other crypto ETFs.