XRP vs. Polkadot: Which Crypto ETF Will the SEC Approve First?

It’s the crypto world’s version of waiting for the next Marvel movie—only instead of capes and cosmic battles, we’ve got ETFs and SEC delays. After the successful debuts (and Price fireworks) of Bitcoin and Ethereum spot ETFs, investors have been on the edge of their ergonomic chairs waiting for the next big launch. Enter stage left: XRP and Polkadot. These two altcoin heavyweights have been circling the ETF approval ring for months, with anticipation building despite the SEC dragging its regulatory heels like a teenager being asked to do chores.

Solana Hits the Snooze Button, XRP and Polkadot Step Up

In a move that surprised absolutely no one, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has decided to push back its decision on Grayscale’s spot Solana ETF—again. This time, the launch date has been delayed all the way to late 2025. Before that, Litecoin’s ETF hopes also got the cold shoulder. So now, with Solana and Litecoin benched, XRP and Polkadot are next in line to be called off the sidelines and into the ETF game, with potential decisions looming this June.

Let’s be honest, spot crypto ETFs have been rocket fuel for the market. Bitcoin and Ethereum saw serious rallies after their ETF launches, and now investors are basically foaming at the mouth for the next round. With altcoins like XRP and DOT waiting in the wings, hopes are high that similar Today’s Viral Level= DarkOrange momentum could be in the cards—if the SEC finally gives its blessing.

XRP vs. Polkadot: The ETF Showdown You Didn’t Know You Needed

With Solana and Litecoin out of the running (for now), all eyes are on XRP and Polkadot. According to court filings, the SEC is set to decide on Grayscale’s Polkadot ETF by June 11, with another application from 21Shares coming up on June 24. Meanwhile, Franklin Templeton’s XRP ETF is up for review on June 17. Mark your calendars, folks—this could be a June to remember.

And if you’re wondering where the smart money is placing bets, look no further than Polymarket. The decentralized prediction platform shows a strong 80% belief that an XRP ETF will be approved by the end of 2025, with a 41% chance by July this year. While those aren’t exactly Vegas odds, they’re enough to keep XRP fans optimistic. Polkadot, on the other hand, doesn’t even have a Polymarket listing—ouch. That’s like showing up to prom and realizing your name’s not even on the guest list.

XRP also has an edge when it comes to global adoption—there are already XRP ETFs trading in places like Brazil, which boosts investor confidence. Plus, the long-running courtroom saga between Ripple and the SEC is finally limping toward a conclusion, which might clear a major regulatory hurdle. That said, the drama isn’t completely over, so don’t pop the champagne just yet.

Polkadot, meanwhile, enjoys clearer regulatory status—but that hasn’t translated into better odds. Why? According to the SEC’s own filings, concerns about Polkadot’s smaller liquidity pool, potential for market manipulation, and long-term viability have thrown cold water on its ETF hopes. In short, Polkadot may be dressed for the ETF party, but the bouncer (read: the SEC) isn’t quite convinced yet.

SEC’s Magic 8-Ball Still Says: “Reply Hazy, Try Again Later”

At this point, the SEC has been tighter-lipped than a Marvel movie spoiler alert. No official comments have been made regarding which ETF will get the green light first. Still, if we’re playing crypto detective (and who isn’t?), the tea leaves seem to favor XRP.

Why? For starters, the futures-based XRP ETF already made its debut, giving it a head start in the regulatory marathon. Add in the near-end of the SEC vs. Ripple lawsuit, the appointment of a new SEC chair (who may or may not be more crypto-friendly), and existing international adoption, and XRP starts to look like the teacher’s pet.

Polkadot, by contrast, is lagging in interest, liquidity, and hype. And as we all know, in the world of finance, perception often becomes reality. Unless something changes drastically, XRP may be the next big crypto ETF to hit U.S. markets—earning its own cape in the ETF Hall of Fame.

FAQ: XRP vs. Polkadot ETF Edition

🧐 When is the SEC expected to decide on the XRP and Polkadot ETFs?

The SEC is expected to review Franklin Templeton’s XRP ETF by June 17, while Grayscale’s and 21Shares’ Polkadot ETF decisions are scheduled for June 11 and June 24, respectively. But keep in mind: SEC deadlines are more like suggestions at this point.

📈 Which ETF is more likely to get approved first?

While nothing is set in stone, XRP appears to be the frontrunner due to its existing international ETF presence, court case nearing resolution, and higher investor confidence. Polkadot is still in the race, but it’s running uphill.

🤔 Why is the SEC delaying these ETF approvals?

The usual suspects: market manipulation concerns, liquidity issues, and long-term stability. The SEC is basically like your overly cautious friend who checks Yelp reviews for an hour before picking a restaurant.

🌎 Are there any XRP or Polkadot ETFs trading outside the U.S.?

Yes! XRP ETFs are already live in places like Brazil, giving it a global edge. Polkadot, however, has yet to make a splash on the international ETF scene.

Final Thoughts: Waiting for the Crypto ETF Sequel

For crypto investors, these ETF approvals are more than just paperwork—they’re potential rocket launchers for altcoin prices. With Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs already lighting up the charts, the race is on for the next big ETF debut. XRP seems to be leading the pack, but in this wild world of crypto, fortunes can flip with a single SEC memo.

So stock up on popcorn and keep an eye on those June dates—because whether it’s XRP or Polkadot, the next ETF launch could be the blockbuster hit of the summer.