SBI Holdings – a strategic partner of Ripple – has just announced plans to launch two digital asset ETF funds, marking a significant milestone in the journey for XRP to gain official recognition in the Japanese market.
This move could open new liquidity streams while driving stronger participation from financial institutions in the digital asset space.
XRP and Bitcoin become the focal point
According to the Q2 2025 earnings report, SBI stated that it has filed for two new ETF funds that integrate XRP, Bitcoin, and gold. The flagship product – Crypto-Assets ETF – will provide direct access to both XRP and Bitcoin. If approved, this could become a key catalyst for widespread acceptance of XRP by institutions in Japan. Until now, legal barriers have made such products difficult to deploy in this country.
The information has created a wave of excitement in the 'XRP Army' community – the enthusiastic supporters of XRP – as it is seen as a strategic step for XRP to gain wider recognition in the market. SBI's commitment to Ripple and the digital asset space is once again affirmed.
The second fund is named Digital Gold Crypto ETF, following a hybrid approach, combining gold and cryptocurrency. More than 50% of the fund's portfolio will be allocated to gold ETFs, aiming to create a balanced investment product that appeals to both cryptocurrency enthusiasts and those who prioritize stability.
By combining the growth potential of crypto with the stability of gold, SBI is providing a new investment tool with a reasonable risk-adjusted approach – catering to a wide range of investor segments. At the same time, this also helps reinforce SBI's pioneering position at the intersection of traditional finance and blockchain technology.
The move demonstrates a strong belief in XRP
SBI's inclusion of XRP in the ETF fund demonstrates a deep belief in the long-term value and practical applications of this currency, particularly in the field of cross-border payments. As one of Ripple's largest shareholders, SBI has actively promoted the use of XRP in financial corridors across Asia.
Although XRP ETFs have been traded in Canada, most major markets like the United States have yet to grant approval. However, the financial industry is hopeful that XRP ETFs will be approved around September–October 2025.
If the Financial Services Agency of Japan (FSA) gives the green light, this will be a significant turning point for the XRP ecosystem as well as the entire industry. XRP will be officially recognized as a regulated investment asset – which could enhance investor confidence. Many analysts believe that SBI's move could create a ripple effect, encouraging other financial institutions to introduce similar products.
SBI's ETF proposal comes in the context of Japan gradually loosening its legal stance on digital assets. Although previously quite cautious, regulators have recently shown more openness to innovation – especially in light of recent election results that have raised hopes for significant tax policy reforms.
