XRP News Today: SBI Files for Dual-Asset Bitcoin-XRP ETF and Gold-Crypto ETF in Japan

SBI Holdings, Japan’s largest financial group, has submitted applications for two exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that will offer exposure to Bitcoin, XRP, and a blend of gold and crypto assets. This marks a significant step in institutionalizing cryptocurrency investments in Japan, where SBI is leveraging its infrastructure and partnership with Ripple to broaden access to digital assets for both retail and institutional investors [1]. The proposed ETFs aim to provide a regulated pathway for investors to gain exposure to crypto, potentially influencing market dynamics for Bitcoin and XRP [2].

The first ETF combines Bitcoin and XRP, offering dual-asset exposure to two of the most prominent cryptocurrencies. The second ETF blends 51 percent gold with 49 percent crypto assets, aiming to balance risk while tapping into the growth potential of digital assets [3]. If approved, these funds are expected to trade on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, further solidifying crypto’s legitimacy as an investment asset in Japan [2].

SBI’s initiative aligns with global trends of institutional adoption of crypto products. Japan’s Financial Services Agency is currently reviewing regulatory frameworks that could streamline the approval and tax procedures for such offerings [2]. The firm’s track record and strategic execution suggest optimism about the potential approval and market impact of these products [3].

The timing of the filing is noteworthy as XRP remains under $3, amid ongoing legal uncertainties. Analysts have provided various forecasts for XRP’s price movement. Analyst Zack Rector predicts a rise to $5 in the near term and potentially $15 by September [3]. James Crypto Space cites historical patterns and suggests a target of $9 by early September. DeepSeek AI estimates a range of $3.50 to $5.00 by year-end, conditional on a favorable legal outcome for Ripple [3]. These forecasts, while speculative, highlight the potential upside if key resistance levels are overcome.

SBI’s foray into crypto ETFs signals a broader shift in integrating digital assets into traditional financial markets. By offering these products through a regulated and trusted institutional framework, SBI could accelerate mainstream adoption and attract a broader investor base [1]. If successful, these ETFs may set a precedent for other Japanese financial institutions, reshaping the investment landscape for both retail and institutional investors.

The regulatory environment remains a critical factor in the approval process. Japan’s Financial Services Agency has faced increasing pressure to adapt to the evolving crypto landscape, and SBI’s filings come at a pivotal moment for regulatory clarity [2]. If approved, the ETFs could serve as a model for future crypto-based investment vehicles, reinforcing Japan’s position as a leader in financial innovation.

SBI’s initiative also reflects the growing influence of Ripple and XRP in the institutional finance space. The bank’s partnership with Ripple and advocacy for XRP adoption may help drive broader acceptance among Japanese investors [3]. As the financial world continues to evolve, SBI’s move could mark a pivotal moment in Japan’s crypto journey, potentially reshaping market dynamics and regulatory approaches to digital assets.

Source:

[1] Cointelegraph, “SBI Group Unveils Plans for Japan's First Bitcoin-XRP ETF,” https://cointelegraph.com/news/sbi-plans-bitcoin-xrp-etf-japan

[2] CoinDesk, “SBI Files for Bitcoin–XRP ETF in Japan,” https://www.coindesk.com/markets/2025/08/06/sbi-files-for-bitcoin-xrp-etf-in-japan-pushing-dual-crypto-exposure-into-regulated-markets

[3] Mitrade, “Japan's largest banking group, SBI Holdings, filed for a Bitcoin and XRP ETF,” https://www.mitrade.com/insights/news/live-news/article-3-1017519-20250807