- Coinbase files to self-certify XRP futures amid improving regulatory conditions.
- Ripple settles with SEC, clearing path for XRP-based institutional products.
- Multiple asset managers file for spot XRP ETFs following lawsuit resolution.
Coinbase Derivatives filed with the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) to self-certify a futures contract for XRP, targeting a launch date of April 21. If launched, the offering would make Coinbase the second U.S.-regulated platform to list XRP futures, following Bitnomial’s listing earlier this month.
The move coincides with a perceived shift in regulatory posture surrounding XRP following progress in the SEC’s legal dispute with Ripple Labs.
Coinbase Futures Strategy & Self-Certification
The self-certification process submitted to the CFTC allows Coinbase Derivatives to introduce new futures contracts without requiring prior formal approval, unless the regulator raises objections. This streamlined approach is part of the platform’s strategy to broaden access to regulated crypto futures.
Related: XRP’s Future in Payments: Experts Debate the Coin’s True Value
Coinbase Derivatives recently launched futures for Solana and Hedera and awaits clearance for Cardano (ADA) and Natural Gas (NGS) futures, both expected live before the end of April.
Move Follows SEC Retreat in Ripple Lawsuit
Coinbase’s decision appears linked to XRP’s improving regulatory standing following developments in the SEC vs. Ripple Labs lawsuit. Two weeks before Coinbase’s filing, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse announced the SEC had agreed to withdraw its appeal in the long-running case.
Related: SEC Drops Multiple Lawsuits and Investigations Against Crypto Firms—Here’s the List
As part of the finalized agreement, Ripple agreed to a $50 million settlement (reduced from $125 million) and withdrew its own cross-appeal.
Path Cleared for Institutional XRP Products, Spot ETFs
This resolution is widely seen as clearing a path for institutional products tied to XRP. Coinbase’s futures filing is one example; numerous asset managers have also submitted filings for spot XRP ETFs with the SEC.
Current spot XRP ETF filers include Bitwise, Canary Capital, 21Shares, WisdomTree, CoinShares, Grayscale, and Franklin Templeton. ProShares and Volatility Shares are also pursuing other XRP-linked investment products.
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