The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has delayed its decision on the proposed XRP Spot ETF from Franklin Templeton, pushing the deadline to June 17, 2025. This move comes amid rising anticipation over regulatory clarity for XRP and growing investor interest in crypto-based exchange-traded funds.
The SEC has followed a similar pattern in the past, waiting for futures markets to develop before approving spot ETFs—first with Bitcoin, and more recently with Ethereum. Other pending applications, including those linked to Ethereum and Dogecoin, have also been postponed, with more delays expected in the coming weeks.
Ripple Case Timing Sparks Speculation
Attorney Bill Morgan has drawn attention to a curious detail: the SEC’s new XRP ETF decision date falls just two days after the agency is required to file a status update in its ongoing legal battle with Ripple Labs. This update, due on June 15, 2025, stems from a court order issued on April 16 and has raised questions about the potential link between the lawsuit and the ETF delay.
Oddly, the delay of the ETF approval to 17 June 2025 is to a date that falls just after the expiry of the 60 day period by which a status report must be filed by the SEC in the SEC v Ripple appeal pursuant to the court order dated 16 April 2025. https://t.co/Rrn0MAHwBv pic.twitter.com/gmVDOSg74H
— bill morgan (@Belisarius2020) April 30, 2025
Morgan’s observation has added weight to speculation that the SEC is deliberately stalling the ETF approval process until the Ripple case progresses. Judge Jose Cabranes, overseeing part of the legal proceedings, has ordered the SEC to provide the update, suggesting that the case’s outcome could directly influence the regulator’s stance on XRP-related investment products.
Is the SEC Strategically Delaying XRP ETF Approval?
The timing has not gone unnoticed by the broader crypto community, where some argue that the SEC is intentionally postponing XRP ETF approval to await a clearer legal framework. Whether it’s a calculated move or mere coincidence remains unclear—but the optics suggest strategic intent.
Also Read: XRP’s Do-or-Die Moment: Will You Be Ready When It Takes Off? – Analyst
A favorable outcome in the Ripple lawsuit could boost confidence in XRP and potentially pave the way for ETF approval. Meanwhile, the SEC is also expected to make final decisions on several other crypto ETFs later this year, with key deadlines approaching in Q4 2025.
For now, investors are watching the Ripple case closely, as it could determine both the regulatory future of XRP and its viability as a mainstream investment vehicle.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The author’s views are personal and may not reflect the views of Chain Affairs. Before making any investment decisions, you should always conduct your own research. Chain Affairs is not responsible for any financial losses.
I’m a crypto enthusiast with a background in finance. I’m fascinated by the potential of crypto to disrupt traditional financial systems. I’m always on the lookout for new and innovative projects in the space. I believe that crypto has the potential to create a more equitable and inclusive financial system.
