XRP News Today: SBI Clarifies No Crypto ETF Applications Submitted Amid Regulatory Uncertainty

SBI Holdings has addressed recent speculation regarding its involvement in cryptocurrency exchange-traded fund (ETF) applications, clarifying on August 8, 2025, that it has not yet submitted any formal applications for crypto-backed ETFs in Japan [1]. This statement followed conflicting media reports that suggested the Japanese financial services giant had already filed for such products. SBI’s clarification emphasized that the firm is still in the early planning stages and is awaiting legal revisions by the Financial Services Agency (FSA) before any applications can proceed [1].

The company’s financial arm, SBI Global Asset Management, has indicated a potential interest in launching ETFs that include both gold and certain crypto assets once regulatory conditions are favorable [1]. CEO Yoshitaka Kitao reiterated this stance, stating that any future ETFs would be launched in line with Japan’s evolving legal framework for digital assets [1]. The FSA is currently reviewing whether certain crypto assets could be included under the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act (FIEA), a regulatory step essential for the approval of crypto-backed financial products [1].

The confusion surrounding SBI’s ETF plans emerged from conflicting reports over a short period in late July and early August 2025. While one report on August 6 claimed SBI had filed for a dual-asset ETF involving Bitcoin and XRP, citing its Q2 2025 earnings report [3], the company’s official stance on August 1 denied any such submission [1]. The discrepancy highlights the fast-paced and sometimes speculative nature of crypto market reporting, particularly as major events such as the Ripple-SEC legal case approached a decision [4].

The potential for a dual-asset ETF involving Bitcoin and XRP has sparked interest among analysts and investors. Such a product could represent a significant development for Japan’s crypto market, especially if it becomes the first of its kind in the country [2]. However, SBI has not provided a definitive timeline for any such product, and regulatory delays remain a key factor in determining the pace of progress [1]. The market remains cautious, with Bitcoin trading below $114,000 in early August and showing signs of ongoing pressure due to waning institutional demand [6]. Analysts have also pointed to broader macroeconomic concerns, including uncertainty over US trade policy, as factors influencing market sentiment [6].

SBI Holdings’ actions continue to draw attention from both domestic and international investors, given its prominent role in Japan’s financial sector. The company’s decision to clarify its ETF status underscores the complexities of navigating regulatory landscapes for digital assets, a challenge shared by many financial institutions globally [1]. As Japan moves toward clearer regulations for crypto assets, SBI’s strategy could influence broader adoption and innovation in the region’s financial markets [3].

Source: [1] SBI Holdings Clarifies Status on Crypto ETF Applications (https://www.coinlive.com/news-flash/867260)

[2] Ripple vs SEC Legal Battle Ends, XRP Price Surges 10.68% (https://www.ainvest.com/news/ripple-sec-legal-battle-ends-xrp-price-surges-10-68-2508/)

[3] Daan de Rover: SBI Holdings files for Bitcoin and crypto ETF (https://tradersunion.com/news/market-voices/show/419764-sbi-holdings-crypto-etf/)

[4] XRP Price Prediction: Analyst Eyes Breakout As Ripple's (https://coingape.com/markets/xrp-price-prediction-analyst-eyes-7-as-ripples-banking-license-application-goes-public/)

[5] Bitcoin Price Forecast: BTC stuck below $114000 as ETF (https://www.mitrade.com/insights/news/live-news/article-3-1016645-20250806)

[6] XRP News Today: SBI Holdings Denies Filing Crypto ETF Applications (https://www.ainvest.com/news/xrp-news-today-sbi-holdings-denies-filing-crypto-etf-applications-regulatory-uncertainty-2508/)