In the United States, debates continue about which cryptocurrency will secure the third exchange-traded fund (ETF) following Bitcoin and Ethereum. Recently, although XRP was frequently mentioned, focus has shifted to Solana (SOL), driven by growing anticipation for a spot ETF approval for Ethereum (ETH). Industry experts believe Solana’s robust market presence and rising popularity make it a strong candidate for an ETF after Ethereum.
Will a Solana ETF Arrive?
Brian Kelly, founder of the digital currency investment firm BKCM, discussed the potential approval process for Ethereum spot ETFs by the SEC in a CNBC interview. He emphasized Solana’s potential as a strong contender, often labeled as the “Ethereum killer” within the cryptocurrency sphere.
In the interview, Kelly also stated, “Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana will likely be the top three cryptocurrencies for this cycle.” Bloomberg Intelligence’s ETF analyst James Seyffart echoed Kelly’s sentiments, highlighting existing regulatory frameworks, such as a futures market regulated by the CFTC, for Solana.
Seyffart suggested that a Solana ETF might not debut until 2026 at the earliest. However, he noted that recently accepted cryptocurrency-friendly legislation could accelerate the ETF approval process more rapidly than anticipated.
Is an XRP ETF Possible?
While XRP seems to operate within a clearer regulatory scope than Solana, Seyffart pointed out that XRP faces a longer road to ETF approval. The ongoing legal battle between Ripple Labs, the issuer of XRP, and the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) remains a significant obstacle.
Additionally, the absence of a CFTC-regulated futures market for XRP is another barrier. Even if these challenges are surmounted, Seyffart stressed that a potential XRP ETF cannot be guaranteed in the near future.
Key Takeaways for Investors
- Solana’s increasing market presence positions it as a strong contender for the next cryptocurrency ETF.
- Regulatory frameworks for Solana, including CFTC-regulated futures markets, exist but present challenges.
- XRP’s regulatory clarity is overshadowed by legal issues with the SEC, delaying potential ETF approval.
- Legislation favoring cryptocurrencies could expedite the ETF approval process for both Solana and XRP.
In conclusion, while Solana and XRP both show promise for future ETFs, regulatory and legal challenges remain significant hurdles. Investors should monitor ongoing legislative changes and market developments for better insights into potential ETF timelines.