XRP News Today: SBI Japan Submits XRP and Bitcoin ETFs to FSA for Regulated Exposure

SBI Holdings, one of Japan’s largest financial services groups, has submitted applications for two exchange-traded funds (ETFs) linked to XRP and Bitcoin to Japan’s Financial Services Agency (FSA) [1]. The proposed products include a “Crypto-Assets ETF” and a “Digital Gold Crypto ETF,” offering investors exposure to digital assets while combining traditional and emerging financial instruments [2]. The first ETF would primarily invest in XRP and Bitcoin, while the second would allocate more than 50% of its assets to gold, with the remainder in crypto [3].

This move represents a significant step in the institutional recognition of XRP, as the proposed ETF would be the first regulated investment vehicle in Japan offering direct exposure to the asset [2]. The initiative aligns with SBI Holdings' broader strategy to integrate blockchain and digital assets into its financial services [1]. SBI Japan, a subsidiary of the company, has long been a strategic partner of Ripple and holds a significant stake in the firm [3].

The FSA has historically taken a cautious approach to regulating digital assets, enforcing strict oversight to manage risks and protect investors [3]. However, recent applications for crypto-linked investment products suggest a gradual shift toward greater acceptance of crypto innovation, particularly in structured financial offerings. SBI’s application is seen as part of this evolving regulatory landscape, potentially signaling broader institutional and regulatory acceptance of crypto assets in Japan [1].

The proposed ETFs could enhance XRP’s credibility and adoption among institutional investors. If approved, the product may also influence regulatory approaches across Asia and globally [3]. The Digital Gold Crypto ETF, which blends the stability of gold with the growth potential of crypto, could attract investors seeking a balanced exposure to digital assets without full commitment [2]. This hybrid structure reflects a growing trend among financial institutions to diversify their offerings while navigating the complexities of crypto regulation.

SBI’s proposal also aligns with its Q2 2025 financial strategy to expand its digital asset portfolio and solidify its leadership in fintech innovation [3]. The company has previously integrated Ripple’s blockchain technology in cross-border payment systems and has consistently advocated for XRP’s role in global financial infrastructure. The proposed ETFs aim to make XRP a regulated investment vehicle accessible to a wider range of investors [1].

If approved, the ETFs could unlock new liquidity for XRP and attract institutional capital that has previously been hesitant to invest directly in cryptocurrencies. This could lead to broader acceptance of XRP as a legitimate asset class and influence regulatory considerations in other markets [2]. The success of SBI’s application could set a precedent for other institutions and potentially drive a wave of similar product launches in Japan and beyond [1].

As of August 6, 2025, XRP is priced at $2.95, with a market capitalization of $174.95 billion and a 30-day price increase of nearly 30% [3]. Analysts suggest that the potential approval of these ETFs could symbolize regulatory acceptance of XRP, leading to growth in investment products across Asia and influencing the global digital assets framework [3].

Sources:

[1] AInvest - [https://www.ainvest.com/news/xrp-news-today-sbi-japan-proposes-etfs-tied-xrp-bitcoin-boost-crypto-adoption-2508/](https://www.ainvest.com/news/xrp-news-today-sbi-japan-proposes-etfs-tied-xrp-bitcoin-boost-crypto-adoption-2508/)

[2] Times - [https://timestabloid.com/latest-sbi-japans-announcement-excites-xrp-army/](https://timestabloid.com/latest-sbi-japans-announcement-excites-xrp-army/)

[3] CryptoPanic - [https://cryptopanic.com/news/23980278/SBI-Holdings-Seeks-FSA-Approval-for-XRP-and-Bitcoin-ETFs](https://cryptopanic.com/news/23980278/SBI-Holdings-Seeks-FSA-Approval-for-XRP-and-Bitcoin-ETFs)