XRP Breaks Into Mainstream Finance as First U.S. ETF Launches

The first U.S.-listed XRP exchange-traded fund (ETF) is set to launch on Sept. 18, 2025, as REX Shares and Osprey Funds unveil their spot XRP ETF, trading under the ticker XRPR. The product, approved by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) after a 75-day review, represents a significant milestone for XRP, which has long been excluded from mainstream financial products due to regulatory uncertainty. The fund will directly hold XRP, offering investors a regulated, brokerage-friendly vehicle to gain exposure to the token without the need for cryptocurrency wallets or exchanges.

The ETF’s structure includes direct holdings of XRP, as well as investments in other XRP ETFs globally and the potential use of derivatives to supplement exposure. This hybrid model reflects the current limitations in the U.S. market for pure spot-based ETFs and underscores the regulatory hurdles faced by crypto fund providers. Despite this, the launch marks a clear expansion of U.S. investors' access to altcoins beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum, a trend that aligns with growing institutional interest in diversified crypto portfolios.

The REX-Osprey XRP ETF is part of a broader wave of crypto product development. CME Group plans to introduce XRP and Solana (SOL) options on Oct. 13, pending regulatory approval. These options will be listed on both standard and micro futures contracts, with multiple expiration dates to cater to a range of trading strategies. The decision follows strong demand for altcoin futures on CME, with XRP and Solana futures already attracting significant trading volumes. This expansion is expected to enhance risk management tools for active traders and institutions, who are increasingly seeking alternatives to Bitcoin and Ether-based products.

At the same time, cloud mining platform SolMining has introduced a new opportunity for XRP holders to generate passive income through short-term mining contracts. These contracts allow users to stake XRP and earn daily returns without requiring technical expertise or hardware. With contract terms ranging from 1 to 40 days and fixed returns based on the amount invested, the platform aims to democratize access to XRP mining for a broader audience. This development could further increase demand for XRP as investors seek ways to capitalize on the token’s growing institutional acceptance.

The regulatory environment for XRP has improved significantly following the conclusion of the SEC vs. Ripple lawsuit. A key legal ruling in August confirmed that XRP does not constitute a security when sold programmatically, a decision that paves the way for broader ETF approvals and institutional adoption. With the SEC now applying generic listing standards for crypto ETFs, the approval process for spot-based funds has been streamlined, removing prior barriers such as the 240-day filing review. This shift has accelerated the timeline for other XRP ETF applications, with seven spot ETFs currently under consideration and expected decisions by late October.

The market reaction has been positive, with XRP rising 3% in the days leading up to the ETF launch. Analysts highlight the potential for strong inflows into the REX-Osprey ETF, which could drive increased liquidity and price stability for the token. However, uncertainty remains about whether XRP will achieve the same level of demand as Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs, given its smaller market capitalization. Institutional participation will be a key determinant in the ETF’s success, particularly as more firms seek to diversify their crypto holdings.