Filings for U.S. spot XRP exchange-traded funds are accelerating as institutions position for 2026. New data show a wave of applications from asset managers, making XRP the first altcoin since Ether to draw broad institutional interest.
Analysts say the rush reflects a rare mix of legal clarity, improved market infrastructure, and rising demand for regulated exposure to alternative crypto assets. The momentum traces to a 2023 ruling that classified XRP as “not a security” in public exchange sales and Ripple’s settlement with the SEC in August 2025—events that removed long-standing regulatory uncertainty and reopened U.S. pathways closed during the lawsuit.
With clearer rules, deep liquidity, and years of steady market activity, issuers have moved quickly. Canary Capital’s debut XRP ETF reportedly saw $250 million in day-one trading, prompting additional spot filings at the DTCC. Institutions are responding similarly: custody standards, compliance frameworks, and market infrastructure around XRP are now robust enough to support institutional products.
As Bitcoin and Ether ETFs saturate, large investors seek diversified exposure, and XRP’s track record positions it as one of the few altcoins suitable for regulated portfolios. Analysts say inflows into XRP ETFs could raise underlying demand, tighten supply, and stabilize long-term price behavior.
Market watchers note this trend is deliberate. One analyst observed XRP has been “put ahead of other altcoins” because institutions better understand its use case and regulatory profile. That analyst added current demand is stronger than ever and could trigger a supply shock.
If the incoming wave of XRP ETF applications is approved, the effects could extend beyond price: large regulated inflows would deepen liquidity, simplify access for traditional investors, and potentially set a precedent for future altcoin ETFs.
