Nasdaq has filed an application with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to list and trade two new cryptocurrency exchange-traded funds (ETFs) from CoinShares: one for XRP and another for Litecoin.
Key Developments
Nasdaq’s 19b-4 Filing
On January 20, 2025, Nasdaq submitted a 19b-4 filing, a regulatory requirement for introducing new financial products. The filing proposes listing and trading under Nasdaq Rule 5711(d), which governs Commodity-Based Trust Shares.
👉 Why This ETF Approval Could Revolutionize Crypto Markets
CoinShares’ S-1 Submission
CoinShares initially filed an S-1 registration form for the XRP and Litecoin ETFs in January 2025. This move has bolstered investor confidence, signaling growing institutional interest in altcoin-based financial products.
Regulatory & Market Optimism
Political Influence on Crypto ETFs
- Trump Administration’s Stance: Analysts like Eric Balchunas (Bloomberg) speculate that the Litecoin ETF might be the first altcoin ETF approved under the Trump administration, given its pro-crypto policies.
- SEC’s Crypto-Friendly Shift: Recent filings, including CBOE BZX Exchange’s 19b-4 applications for XRP ETFs (Bitwise, WisdomTree, etc.), suggest a higher likelihood of approvals.
Competing ETF Filings
- Grayscale: Applied for Solana and Litecoin Trust ETFs.
- BlackRock: Plans updates to its iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF.
FAQs
1. What is a 19b-4 filing?
A 19b-4 filing is a regulatory submission to the SEC required for exchanges to launch new securities or financial products, ensuring compliance with market rules.
2. How likely are XRP/Litecoin ETF approvals?
Given the SEC’s evolving stance and political support, analysts project high approval chances in 2025.
3. Which other altcoin ETFs are in progress?
Grayscale’s Solana ETF and multiple XRP ETF proposals (e.g., Bitwise, 21Shares) are under review.
👉 Explore How ETFs Could Shape Crypto’s Future
Conclusion
The push for XRP and Litecoin ETFs reflects broader institutional adoption of cryptocurrencies. With regulatory tailwinds and competitive filings, 2025 could mark a pivotal year for altcoin-based investment products.
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