XRP, Litecoin, and Ethereum ETFs Face Further Delays: SEC Takes Its Time in 2025

• Why Is the SEC Delaying Crypto ETF Approvals?
• The Ripple Effect: XRP, LTC, and ETH ETFs in Limbo
• Truth Social’s ETF: Politics Meets Crypto
• What’s Next for Crypto Investors?
• FAQ: Your ETF Delay Questions Answered

In a move that’s frustrating crypto investors, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has once again postponed decisions on spot ETFs for XRP, Litecoin, and Ethereum—along with Trump’s Truth Social ETF—pushing deadlines to October 2025. Despite market optimism following earlier Bitcoin and ethereum ETF approvals, regulators appear in no hurry, leaving billions in potential investments hanging. Here’s why the wait continues and what it means for the crypto landscape.

Why Is the SEC Delaying Crypto ETF Approvals?

The SEC’s latest delay, announced on August 20, 2025, cites the need for "additional time to evaluate proposed rule changes." But behind the bureaucratic language, political tensions and regulatory caution loom large. Caroline Ciccone of Accountable.US openly questioned whether approving Trump-linked Truth Social’s Bitcoin-Ethereum ETF WOULD be seen as a policy move or a partisan favor. Meanwhile, analysts like James Seyffart (Bloomberg Intelligence) note that the SEC rarely approves 19b-4 filings early—October deadlines were almost inevitable.

The Ripple Effect: XRP, LTC, and ETH ETFs in Limbo

Applications from 21Shares, Grayscale, and CoinShares for XRP, Litecoin, and Solana ETFs are now deferred to mid-to-late October. The holdup contrasts sharply with the explosive success of existing crypto ETFs. For context: BlackRock’s ETHA fund attracted $519.7 million in a single day in July, while Ethereum ETFs collectively netted $3.7 billion in inflows over eight days. "The market’s appetite is clear," says a BTCC analyst. "But the SEC’s playbook is ‘measure twice, cut once.’"

Truth Social’s ETF: Politics Meets Crypto

Trump Media’s proposed Bitcoin-Ethereum ETF, pitched as a gateway for conservative investors, faces unique scrutiny. SEC documents emphasize "thorough review," but insiders whisper about internal resistance. Critics argue the ETF could blur lines between finance and politics—especially if approved during an election year. "Americans will wonder if this is for the country or for Trump’s business," warns Ciccone. The agency’s October 8 deadline now becomes a high-stakes milestone.

What’s Next for Crypto Investors?

While delays test patience, historical data suggests eventual approvals could trigger massive inflows. bitcoin ETFs paved the way in 2024; Ethereum followed suit. Now, altcoin ETFs sit in the queue. "The SEC’s pace is glacial, but the destination hasn’t changed," notes the BTCC team. Key dates to watch:

• October 8, 2025: Truth Social ETF decision deadline
• October 15–31, 2025: Window for XRP, Litecoin, and Solana ETF rulings

This article does not constitute investment advice.

FAQ: Your ETF Delay Questions Answered

Why does the SEC keep postponing crypto ETF decisions?

The SEC cites procedural thoroughness, but industry experts point to political sensitivities (especially around Trump-linked projects) and caution following past crypto volatility.

How have existing crypto ETFs performed?

Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs smashed records in 2024–2025. Ethereum funds alone drew $3.7 billion in eight days this July (per CoinMarketCap data).

Could delays benefit investors?

Potentially. More review time may lead to stronger safeguards. But as TradingView charts show, missed opportunities pile up during waiting periods.