Nasdaq Submits 19b-4 Filings for CoinShares’ XRP & Litecoin ETFs to the SEC
Key Points:
- Nasdaq has filed 19b-4 forms with the SEC to list CoinShares’ XRP and Litecoin ETFs, paving the way for institutional adoption.
- This step follows CoinShares’ S-1 submission to launch these ETFs, signaling growing optimism in the crypto market.
- Bloomberg analysts believe Litecoin’s ETF could be the first altcoin ETF approved, supported by shifting U.S. regulations.
Nasdaq Pushes for XRP & Litecoin ETFs
Amid rising expectations for crypto exchange-traded funds (ETFs), Nasdaq has taken a major step forward. The exchange officially filed 19b-4 forms with the SEC to introduce CoinShares’ XRP and Litecoin ETFs. These ETFs offer investors new exposure to digital assets, further promoting institutional adoption.
Regulatory Momentum for Crypto ETFs
Nasdaq’s January 10 filing proposes listing these ETFs under Nasdaq Rule 5711(d), which regulates Commodity-Based Trust Shares. This follows CoinShares’ S-1 filing, showing increasing confidence in crypto ETF approvals.
Will CoinShares Secure SEC Approval?
In January 2025, CoinShares formally applied for XRP and Litecoin ETFs, following the successful launch of Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs. Bloomberg’s Eric Balchunas suggests the Litecoin ETF could be the first altcoin ETF approved, citing a more crypto-friendly U.S. regulatory environment under Donald Trump’s administration.
Given that 19b-4 filings are critical for ETF approvals, Nasdaq’s move has amplified expectations for an imminent launch.
Growing Competition in the Crypto ETF Space
CoinShares isn’t alone in this race. Major institutions like Grayscale and BlackRock are also pursuing altcoin ETFs:
- Grayscale seeks to convert its Solana and Litecoin Trusts into ETFs.
- BlackRock is expanding its iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF.
- CBOE BZX Exchange has filed XRP ETF applications for Bitwise, Canary Capital, 21Shares, and WisdomTree.
With regulatory sentiment shifting in favor of crypto ETFs, analysts believe the SEC is more likely to greenlight these filings, shaping the next phase of institutional crypto investments. 🚀
