XRP ETF delayed as SEC stalls on altcoin proposals, price consolidates around $3.00

The SEC has pushed back its decision on spot XRP ETF applications, prolonging the wait for approval.

According to notices filed on Aug. 18, the SEC has extended its review period for several XRP ( XRP ) exchange-traded fund applications.

The delays affect issuers including CoinShares , 21Shares , Canary Capital , and Grayscale , all seeking to launch ETFs tracking the XRP token. The commission previously made a similar move in May, when it initiated proceedings on whether to approve or disapprove the funds, citing the need for further consideration.

Now, the regulatory watchdog has extended its review by an additional 60-day period, setting new deadlines for the applications between October 18 and 23.

“Accordingly, the Commission, pursuant to Section 19(b)(2) of the Act, designates October 19, 2025, as the date by which the Commission shall either approve or disapprove the proposed rule change,” read one of the filings.

The SEC’s decision adds to an ongoing series of delays across dozens of altcoin ETFs under review, including its recent pushback on Solana ( SOL ) ETF filings, which are also not expected until late October. Other altcoin-based proposals, including Litecoin ( LTC ) ETFs, are similarly impacted.

While the delays do not indicate outright rejection, they prolong uncertainty over the potential launch of these ETFs, particularly amid mounting expectations.

XRP ETF: Is SEC approval likely?

Industry analysts are confident about the potential of an XRP ETF approval. Bloomberg ETF experts James Seyffart and Eric Balchunas estimate the odds at 95%, citing several factors that point toward a regulatory greenlight.

The recent resolution of the years-long Ripple-SEC dispute adds to the optimistic outlook, with the regulatory clarity expected to remove obstacles that may have previously clouded the chances of the proposed funds.

Polymarket bets on a potential approval before year-end also remain bullish , with odds currently at 77%. This is up 6% on the day, showing that the latest delays have not dampened industry sentiment.

Meanwhile, BlackRock has reportedly dismissed speculation that it might enter the XRP ETF race. Earlier this month, ETF Store president Nate Geraci suggested that the spot Bitcoin and Ethereum issuer could file its own application and join the waiting list. However, BlackRock has reportedly stated it has “no plans at this time.”

Still, the outlook for XRP ETF approval remains positive, though the ultimate decision rests with the regulatory commission.