XRP’s Defining Moment: October ETF Rulings Could Push Prices to New Highs

October XRP ETF Approvals Could Unlock Billions in Institutional Investments

The month of October could prove decisive for the future of Ripple’s XRP token as the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) prepares to rule on a series of highly anticipated exchange-traded fund (ETF) applications. Analysts say the decisions, expected between October 18 and October 24, may either open the floodgates to billions in institutional investment or extend the long-running uncertainty surrounding digital asset regulation in the United States.

For years, XRP has been caught between promising technology and regulatory headwinds. But with the SEC’s accelerated review process and multiple applications on the table from heavyweight asset managers, October has become a pivotal moment not just for Ripple, but for the entire crypto industry.

Key XRP ETF Decisions in October

Market participants are bracing for back-to-back SEC rulings on several XRP ETF proposals. According to filings, the decision dates are set for:

Source: X

• Grayscale – October 18

• 21Shares – October 19

• Bitwise – October 20

• Canary Capital and CoinShares – October 23

• WisdomTree – October 24

If approved, these ETFs would allow pension funds, hedge funds, and other large institutional investors to gain exposure to XRP without the complexities of directly holding or managing the token. For institutional players wary of custody risks, regulatory compliance, or liquidity concerns, ETFs offer a streamlined path into crypto markets.

On the other hand, rejection could reinforce the perception that XRP remains a retail-driven asset, delaying broader adoption and keeping institutions at arm’s length.

The Significance Beyond XRP

The decisions are not occurring in a vacuum. Earlier this year, Ripple scored a legal victory when a federal court ruled that secondary sales of XRP do not constitute securities transactions. That ruling provided a measure of clarity and bolstered optimism that ETFs tied to XRP might eventually gain regulatory approval.

If the SEC greenlights even one XRP ETF, it would mark the third cryptocurrency after Bitcoin and Ethereum to gain ETF status in the U.S., signaling a dramatic step forward for mainstream adoption. The ripple effect could also spur similar applications for other digital assets, accelerating the convergence of traditional finance and crypto markets.

“This is about more than just XRP,” said Marcus Kane, a senior analyst at BlockSight Research. “Approval would send a signal to the entire industry that the SEC is ready to move beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum, and begin integrating a broader range of digital assets into regulated markets.”

XRP Price Outlook

As investors await the SEC’s verdict, XRP is trading at $2.79, reflecting a 1.39% gain in the past 24 hours. The token recently bounced off a support level at $2.70, with technical resistance forming around $3.07.

Source: CMC

Market indicators remain mixed. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) at 40.91 suggests a neutral outlook, while the MACD at -0.0348 indicates lingering bearish pressure. Traders are weighing two potential scenarios:

• Bullish case: A breakout above $3.07 could propel XRP toward $3.31.

• Bearish case: A drop below $2.70 could open the door for a retest of $2.50.

Adding intrigue is the activity of so-called “whales” — large holders of XRP — whose accumulation has hit all-time highs. While this demonstrates confidence, it also raises the risk of sudden, large sell-offs that could shock the market.

Institutional Shifts and Ripple’s Expansion

Beyond ETF speculation, Ripple has been expanding aggressively. Earlier this year, the company acquired payments platform Rail for $200 million, signaling ambitions to expand into stablecoins and global payment networks. Such moves reinforce Ripple’s goal of positioning XRP as a backbone for cross-border transactions.

Meanwhile, regulators are tightening their timelines. The SEC’s review process has been reduced from 270 days to just 75, ensuring that applicants receive timely decisions. Analysts say this expedited framework could increase the likelihood of at least partial approvals.

“Even if the SEC only approves one or two applications, it would be seen as a watershed moment,” explained Linda Carver, a financial law professor at Georgetown University. “Institutional money would begin to flow in, and the psychological impact on the market could be just as significant as the capital inflows.”

Analysts’ Expectations: 95% Chance of Approval

According to multiple research firms, analysts assign a 95% probability that at least one XRP ETF will secure approval in 2025. Market forecasts suggest that such a breakthrough could bring $7 to $8 billion in institutional capital into XRP within the first year, significantly boosting liquidity and stability.

“This isn’t just about price action,” said David Lang, head of digital assets at a major investment bank. “ETFs are infrastructure. Once you have that in place, you’ve essentially laid the tracks for pensions, endowments, and sovereign wealth funds to move into crypto at scale.”

Even partial approvals would mark a shift in regulatory tone. Conversely, outright rejection could push innovation overseas, reinforcing concerns that the U.S. risks falling behind in the global digital asset race.

Market Reaction So Far

Crypto traders have shown unusual restraint ahead of the October dates. Unlike past cycles where speculation drove dramatic volatility, XRP’s movements in recent weeks have been relatively muted. Analysts say this reflects a growing maturity in the market, with investors waiting for regulatory clarity before making large bets.

Still, sentiment remains fragile. A negative decision from the SEC could spark a sell-off, particularly among retail traders. However, long-term investors argue that institutional appetite for crypto is undeniable, and delays would merely slow — not stop — adoption.

Conclusion: A Defining Week Ahead

The week of October 18–24 could reshape the investment landscape for XRP and potentially the entire cryptocurrency sector. With multiple ETF applications queued, the SEC’s rulings will provide a rare glimpse into how regulators envision the role of altcoins in mainstream finance.

If approved, XRP could see billions in institutional inflows, cementing its place alongside Bitcoin and Ethereum as a regulated digital asset class. If denied, the token risks remaining sidelined in the U.S., even as other jurisdictions move forward.

Writer @Erlin

Erlin is an experienced crypto writer who loves to explore the intersection of blockchain technology and financial markets. She regularly provides insights into the latest trends and innovations in the digital currency space.

 

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