"Crypto ETFs: SEC's New Chair Holds Key to XRP, Litecoin Approval"
1min read Following the departure of former SEC Chair Gary Gensler, the potential approval of more spot crypto ETFs (exchange-traded funds) has sparked significant interest in the industry. Recently, several altcoins, including XRP, Solana, and Litecoin, have seen filings for spot ETFs. However, the key question remains: will the SEC approve these products soon?
Nate Geraci, President of The ETF Store, believes that the approval of such ETFs hinges on regulatory clarity. In an interview with Thinking Crypto, he suggested that Litecoin may be in a better position to receive approval, as it is seen as similar to Bitcoin. Bitcoin is categorized as a non-security commodity, and there are no major legal challenges involving Litecoin at this moment, making it an attractive option for approval.
However, the situation is different for XRP, as it is embroiled in ongoing legal issues. This adds a layer of complexity to the potential approval for spot ETFs. Despite these challenges, Geraci believes that all options are still on the table. The key factor will be how quickly the SEC can resolve questions about which cryptocurrencies are classified as securities versus commodities.
With the recent transition in SEC leadership, under new Chairman Paul Atkins, it remains to be seen what his priorities will be. Geraci remains optimistic but notes that crypto will likely be a key focus, though the timeline is uncertain.
For spot crypto ETFs to be approved, there is no specific requirement for the underlying asset to have an existing futures market, despite Bitcoin and Ethereum taking that route. The crucial element is a “surveillance sharing agreement” with a regulated market of significant size. This agreement ensures that market activities can be monitored effectively.
In summary, while it’s not guaranteed, Geraci believes that additional spot crypto ETFs—including those for XRP, Solana, and Litecoin—are likely in the future.
