Nasdaq Submits 19b-4 Application for XRP and Litecoin ETFs
Nasdaq has filed a 19b-4 application with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to list two CoinShares exchange-traded funds (ETFs) tracking XRP and Litecoin (LTC). This move aims to enhance investor exposure to these digital assets and expand CoinShares' footprint in the U.S. crypto market.
Key points:
- The filing follows CoinShares’ recent S-1 submissions for spot XRP and Litecoin ETFs.
- The ETFs are designed to provide regulated, institutional-grade access to LTC and XRP.
- Analysts speculate Litecoin’s ETF approval may precede XRP’s due to regulatory clarity.
Why Litecoin ETF Approval Could Come First
Market experts highlight Litecoin’s advantages in the ETF race:
- Commodity Classification: The CFTC labeled LTC a commodity in 2024, avoiding SEC security-related scrutiny.
- Bitcoin-like Attributes: LTC’s technical similarities to BTC (e.g., proof-of-work, fixed supply) streamline regulatory approval.
- Legal Clarity: Unlike XRP, Litecoin faces no ongoing SEC lawsuits.
Eric Balchunas, Bloomberg ETF analyst, noted:
"Litecoin checks all boxes—commodity status, SEC engagement, and a favorable political climate. Approval seems imminent."
XRP and Litecoin ETF Approval Odds Surge
Polymarket data reveals:
| Asset | Approval Odds (2025) | Monthly Change |
|---------|---------------------|----------------|
| XRP | 81% | +12% |
| LTC | 81% | +41% |
The spike reflects growing institutional confidence in both assets.
Litecoin Price Outlook: Analysts Target $128
LTC’s price surged 9.8% to $118.17 amid ETF speculation. Analyst Carl Moon predicts:
- 17% upside from its current ascending triangle breakout.
- Next target: $128, driven by ETF optimism and technical momentum.
👉 Track Litecoin’s price action
FAQs
1. When will the SEC decide on these ETFs?
SEC typically reviews 19b-4 filings within 45–240 days. A decision is likely by Q3 2025.
2. How does Litecoin’s regulatory status differ from XRP’s?
LTC is classified as a commodity, while XRP’s status remains disputed in an ongoing SEC case.
3. What’s the impact of ETF approval on crypto prices?
Historically, ETF approvals trigger short-term price rallies due to increased demand and legitimacy.
4. Can retail investors buy these ETFs?
Yes, once approved, they’ll trade like traditional ETFs on Nasdaq.
5. Why is Nasdaq pushing for crypto ETFs now?
Shifting U.S. regulatory trends and institutional demand make 2025 a pivotal year for crypto investment products.
Final Thoughts
Nasdaq’s ETF push underscores growing institutional adoption of altcoins. While Litecoin leads in regulatory readiness, XRP’s approval could set a precedent for assets with ongoing legal challenges. Investors should monitor SEC developments and diversify portfolios accordingly.
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- Nasdaq ETF
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- LTC price prediction
- ETF approval odds