REX-Osprey plans to launch the first spot XRP exchange-traded fund in the United States on September 18, marking a significant milestone for Ripple's native cryptocurrency as it reclaims the $3 price level. The development comes alongside Ripple's announcement of a $25 million charitable donation and growing concerns about increased selling pressure from exchange holdings.
What to Know:
- REX-Osprey will debut the first US spot XRP ETF on September 18, operating with XRP tokens, cash, Treasuries, and derivatives
- Ripple donated $25 million in RLUSD stablecoins to support small businesses and veterans through two nonprofit organizations
- XRP price has risen to $3.04 while exchange holdings reach record levels, with over 3.6 billion tokens stored on Binance alone
Historic ETF Launch Marks New Chapter for XRP
The upcoming REX-Osprey ETF represents the first spot XRP product approved for US markets, though journalist Eleanor Terrett noted it will function as a "spot ETF with extras." The fund, trading under ticker XRPR, will maintain holdings in XRP tokens alongside traditional assets including cash and Treasury securities. Bloomberg analyst Eric Balchunas confirmed the September 18 launch date.
However, other XRP ETF applications face regulatory delays. The Securities and Exchange Commission extended Franklin Templeton's review period by 60 days earlier this month, pushing their decision deadline to November 14, 2025. This timeline reflects ongoing regulatory scrutiny surrounding cryptocurrency investment products.
The ETF development has contributed to renewed investor interest in XRP, which currently trades at $3.04 according to CoinGecko data.
Ripple Expands Charitable Initiatives With $25 Million Donation
Ripple announced a substantial charitable commitment on September 15, distributing $25 million through its RLUSD stablecoin to two organizations focused on economic opportunity. The Accion Opportunity Fund and Hire Heroes USA will receive the funding to expand capital access for small business owners and create career opportunities for veterans and military spouses.
CEO Brad Garlinghouse emphasized the strategic importance of supporting these groups.
"Small businesses and veterans are two of the most powerful engines of American progress, yet both face barriers that limit their full economic impact," Garlinghouse stated.
This donation represents Ripple's second $25 million charitable contribution in 2025, demonstrating the company's commitment to leveraging cryptocurrency for social impact. The use of RLUSD, Ripple's dollar-pegged stablecoin launched in late 2024, highlights the practical applications of digital assets in philanthropic efforts.
RLUSD has experienced significant growth since its introduction. The stablecoin currently maintains a market capitalization of approximately $730 million, reflecting increased adoption and trust in Ripple's payment infrastructure.
Understanding Key Financial Terms
Exchange-traded funds represent investment vehicles that trade on stock exchanges like individual stocks while tracking underlying assets or indices. Spot ETFs directly hold the assets they track, contrasting with futures-based products that use derivative contracts. Stablecoins like RLUSD maintain fixed values by pegging to traditional currencies, typically the US dollar.
Market capitalization measures the total value of a cryptocurrency by multiplying its current price by circulating supply. Exchange holdings indicate the amount of cryptocurrency stored on trading platforms, often reflecting potential selling pressure when levels increase significantly.
Market Dynamics Signal Mixed Outlook
Technical analysts have identified key price levels that could determine XRP's near-term direction. User CRYPTOWZRD suggested the token might experience an "impulsive bullish move" if it breaks above $3.1320 resistance, while analyst Ali Martinez identified $2.80 as crucial support.
Exchange data reveals concerning trends for XRP holders, however. The amount of XRP stored on major trading platforms continues climbing, with Binance alone holding over 3.6 billion tokens at record levels. This concentration typically indicates increased selling pressure as traders position for potential price movements.
The timing of increased exchange holdings alongside the ETF launch creates an interesting dynamic. While institutional investment through the ETF could drive demand, retail traders appear positioned to capitalize on any price appreciation.
Closing Thoughts
The convergence of the first spot XRP ETF launch, Ripple's philanthropic expansion, and mixed technical signals creates a pivotal moment for the cryptocurrency. While institutional adoption through ETF products typically signals market maturation, rising exchange holdings suggest traders remain cautious about sustained price gains. The success of REX-Osprey's pioneering ETF could influence regulatory decisions on pending applications and shape XRP's long-term market position.
