What to Expect from Crypto ETFs in May 2025: BTC, ETH, and XRP Updates

The cryptocurrency exchange-traded fund (ETF) market is gaining momentum with over 72 pending filings awaiting approval from the SEC, including spot XRP ETFs. Here's what to expect in May 2025.

Crypto ETFs: What’s Coming for BTC, ETH, and XRP ETFs in May 2025?

Highlights:

• Following the approval of BTC and ETH ETFs, 72 crypto ETFs are awaiting SEC approval.
• The SEC has delayed decisions on major applications, including the spot XRP ETF.
• In May, CME is set to launch the XRP futures ETF, with potential major inflows into BTC and ETH ETFs.

The crypto ETF market has attracted a great deal of attention, especially after the approval of Bitcoin (BTC) ETFs, which brought a surge in inflows. Although only two spot ETFs have been approved so far, there are over 72 pending filings, including XRP ETFs, awaiting approval from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Let's take a look at what's to come.

There are 72 pending crypto ETF filings, and the decision is expected this year.

Crypto ETF Delays After SEC Review

The approval of BTC and ETH ETFs paved the way for other potential approvals. However, despite the filings, the SEC has yet to make a decision on 72 pending ETF filings. Initially, April was expected to bring clarity on certain filings like the Franklin Templeton XRP spot ETF, but the decision has been postponed until June. Fidelity’s ETH ETF staking provisions were also delayed.

Crypto ETF Delays

In a recent post on X, a Bloomberg analyst predicted further delays, possibly extending until October 2025 or beyond. Experts suggest that the situation might improve once Paul Atkins fully assumes his role at the SEC, potentially bringing favorable decisions in the third or fourth quarter of 2025.

"We’ve also seen the SEC delay decisions on Ethereum Staking and Dogecoin ETFs. I expect more delays today or at least this week, especially for some Solana and Hedera/HBAR ETF filings. This is expected. The final deadlines for most of these will likely be in October 2025 or later," said James Seyffart.

BTC and ETH ETFs Seeing Inflows, While XRP ETF Stalls

The Bitcoin ETF was the first to gain approval from the SEC in early 2024, reaching a total volume of $2.54 billion. The total asset management (AUM) stands at $113.62 billion, with a market cap of $112.33 billion. Bitcoin ETFs have become so popular that they have contributed to pushing Bitcoin prices to new highs.

Although the Ethereum ETF has not gained as much traction as Bitcoin’s, it remains in demand. The Ethereum ETF’s market cap is $177.15 billion, with a total volume of $177.15 million and an AUM of $8.69 billion, according to the latest data. Although the crypto market experienced a downturn due to the Trump trade war, these ETFs have recently made a strong recovery.

XRP ETF Stands Still

Bitcoin ETFs saw a $591 million inflow on Monday, while Ethereum ETFs experienced $35.81 million on Monday and $10.23 million on Tuesday. However, as investors remain optimistic, more inflows are expected.

What’s Next for Crypto ETFs in May 2025?

While May 2025 doesn’t bring many new developments for crypto ETFs, there is an important milestone: the launch of CME’s XRP futures ETF on May 19. This could influence the market and other updates, especially with Paul Atkins now being involved in the SEC.

Moreover, the SEC has shifted its stance on cryptocurrencies, which may result in positive updates for altcoin ETF approvals in the upcoming months, though uncertainties still remain. With existing ETFs already launched, we may see a rise in inflows, thanks to a recovery in financial markets driven by Federal Reserve rate cuts and other macroeconomic events