SBI Holdings Eyes XRP-Linked ETF Launch in Japan

In a landmark move for Japan’s digital asset landscape, SBI Holdings - a long-standing strategic partner of Ripple - has revealed plans to launch two crypto-focused exchange-traded funds (ETFs), one of which will include direct exposure to XRP.

The announcement, disclosed as part of SBI’s Q2 2025 financial results, signals a potential turning point for XRP’s institutional recognition in Asia.

XRP and Bitcoin Featured in New ETF Product

The centerpiece of SBI’s ETF initiative is the Crypto-Assets ETF, which combines XRP, Bitcoin, and gold in a diversified basket. If approved by regulators, this fund would mark one of the first institutional-grade investment products in Japan to include XRP, offering a compliant vehicle for broader market participation.

The ETF plans were first brought to public attention via social media by XRP advocate Amelie, sparking enthusiasm within the XRP community – often referred to as the “XRP Army.” Community members and market watchers alike see this as a strategic breakthrough for XRP’s mainstream acceptance.

Regulatory Progress and Strategic Implications

Japan has long maintained strict oversight of crypto-based financial products, which has limited the rollout of crypto ETFs in the region. However, the proposed funds come at a time when regulatory clarity is beginning to take shape, both globally and in Japan. Should SBI’s filings gain approval, it could set a precedent for similar products to emerge in the Japanese market.

The move aligns with SBI’s continued push to integrate blockchain and digital assets into its broader financial strategy. The firm has consistently backed Ripple’s technology and XRP as a digital asset with real-world utility, particularly in cross-border payments.

A Boost for XRP Legitimacy

As institutional investors increasingly seek exposure to crypto through regulated instruments, SBI’s XRP-inclusive ETF could become a vital bridge between traditional finance and blockchain. The move is widely interpreted as a signal that XRP is gaining traction not just as a speculative asset, but as a recognized component of diversified investment strategies.
If successful, SBI’s initiative may not only bolster XRP liquidity and credibility in Japan but also serve as a model for similar ETF products across Asia and beyond.

Kosta has been working in the crypto industry for over 4 years. He strives to present different perspectives on a given topic and enjoys the sector for its transparency and dynamism. In his work, he focuses on balanced coverage of events and developments in the crypto space, providing information to his readers from a neutral perspective.