Bloomberg Analyst Predicts XRP ETF Approval in September or October

- Bloomberg’s Eric Balchunas predicts XRP ETF approval could come in September or October, based on updated SEC listing standards.
- The SEC recently introduced new guidelines permitting crypto ETFs for tokens with at least 6 months of futures trading history — a move that supports major altcoins like XRP.
- Balchunas estimates an 85% chance of approval for multiple altcoin ETFs, including XRP.
Bloomberg Analyst Sees Fall as Key Window for XRP ETF Approval
Bloomberg analyst Eric Balchunas has identified September or October as the most likely timeframe for the approval of altcoin ETFs, including a potential XRP ETF. His outlook follows a significant regulatory update from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
In a recent filing, the SEC introduced new “Listing Standards” for crypto exchange-traded products (ETPs), specifically targeting digital assets that have maintained at least six months of futures trading on recognized platforms such as Coinbase’s derivatives exchange.
Balchunas commented that these revised standards could open the door for a wave of altcoin ETF approvals in the coming months. Among the most likely candidates are XRP, Dogecoin, and Solana, which all meet the criteria outlined by the SEC.
He added that the updated rules primarily benefit cryptocurrencies with existing derivatives markets and noted his team estimates an 85% chance of approval for several crypto ETF products, including one tied to XRP.

SEC’s Operational Shift Could Clear Path for XRP ETF Approval
As previously reported by CoinGape, the SEC has approved in-kind creation and redemption for crypto exchange-traded products (ETPs)—a key operational update that could remove the final hurdle for altcoin ETFs, including a proposed XRP ETF. This change allows authorized participants to directly create or redeem ETF shares using the underlying cryptocurrency instead of cash.
Crypto lawyer Bill Morgan emphasized the significance of this move, suggesting it could greatly improve efficiency and lower costs in the ETF process. By allowing ETFs to be backed directly by cryptocurrency held by market makers, the update simplifies settlements and brings crypto ETPs more in line with commodity-backed funds like gold ETFs.
Ripple’s XRP ETF Proposals Face Fewer Barriers Amid Regulatory Progress
The SEC is currently reviewing several XRP ETF applications, including notable filings from Bitwise and Franklin Templeton. While the Commission recently extended the review period for Franklin Templeton’s XRP ETF through the end of 2025, recent regulatory changes suggest this extended timeline may be shortened.
Bloomberg analyst Eric Balchunas remains confident, maintaining an 85% approval probability for multiple altcoin ETFs, including XRP. His outlook is supported by Polymarket data, which places XRP ETF approval odds at around 86%, despite procedural delays.

Ripple v. SEC Case Remains a Key Factor in XRP ETF Timeline
The ongoing legal battle between Ripple and the SEC continues to play a crucial role in the fate of the XRP ETF. The unresolved case has been a major obstacle to regulatory approval, but that may soon change. Former SEC attorney Marc Fagel recently suggested that both sides could choose to withdraw their appeals ahead of the upcoming August 15 status report, potentially eliminating one of the final legal barriers.
Meanwhile, Bloomberg analyst projections point to October as the most likely window for XRP ETF approval, signaling renewed optimism in the market. A green light could inject fresh momentum into the broader crypto ETF space, paving the way for additional altcoin-based products.
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