XRP Trails Market as SEC Hesitates on ETFs; BTC Soars to $111k

By Bob Mason
Published: May 23, 2025

In a day filled with mixed fortunes across the cryptocurrency landscape, XRP has found itself lagging behind due to ongoing uncertainty stemming from SEC decisions regarding exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Meanwhile, Bitcoin (BTC) made headlines by reaching a staggering new high of $111,910. ## SEC Delays XRP-ETF Reviews

On May 22, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) announced it would delay the reviews for the CoinShares XRP ETF and the Bitwise XRP ETF, a move that has sent ripples of concern through the crypto community. According to Bloomberg Intelligence ETF Analyst James Seyffart, the SEC’s decision to postpone the scrutiny of these applications, along with similar delays affecting other crypto ETFs, has heightened apprehension around XRP’s market performance.

"Delays include Bitwise Invest & CoinShares XRP ETFs. The delay on Litecoin ETF Filing, along with Fidelity’s in-kind Bitcoin filing, adds to uncertainty," Seyffart stated, indicating that further ETF applications are still pending reviews, with notable names such as 21Shares and WisdomTree in the queue.

Legal Developments with Ripple Case

Legal developments surrounding XRP are also creating an air of uncertainty. Recently, Judge Torres rejected the SEC’s motion to revisit her prior ruling concerning institutional sales of XRP and the $125 million fine against Ripple. This decision leaves investors anxious while they await news from the SEC’s closed meetings. Pro-crypto lawyers have speculated that the SEC may need to classify XRP as a commodity to strengthen its position in ongoing legal battles.

As of late, XRP saw a marginal gain of 1.53% on May 22, closing at $2.4318. Despite this uptick, it substantially underperformed compared to the broader cryptocurrency market, which surged by 2.33%, marking a total market cap of $3.47 trillion. The crypto community continues to look for direction based on ongoing legal proceedings and any future updates from the SEC.

Future Price Outlook for XRP

XRP’s near-term price trajectory seems vulnerable as attention remains firmly fixed on the outcomes of the SEC vs. Ripple court case and any ETF-related market updates. Analysts note a crucial support level at $2.3, while a rise above May 12’s high of $2.6553 could position XRP towards a resurgence above $3.00, potentially reaching historic heights around $3.5505. ## Bitcoin Celebrates Pizza Day with Record Heights

In stark contrast to XRP’s struggles, Bitcoin marked a celebratory occasion with remarkable gains, culminating in its all-time high on May 22, also designated as Pizza Day—an event commemorating the first recorded purchase of goods with Bitcoin. This year, BTC’s value soared to $111,910, reflecting a full recovery from its recent downturn.

Market intelligence platform Santiment highlighted this upward trajectory, explaining, "Bitcoin’s new all-time high now stands at ~$111.9K, with a strong chance of this mark sustaining throughout the week." The ongoing bull cycle in crypto continues to provide a formidable foundation for BTC’s increased popularity.

ETF Market Dynamics Favoring BTC

Further fueling Bitcoin’s rise, recent OTA-spot ETF transactions have illustrated substantial net inflows. As of May 21, these ETFs recorded net inflows totaling $607.1 million, extending their streak to six consecutive sessions. Noteworthy among these is Fidelity’s Bitcoin fund, which alone garnered $48.7 million.

Experts predict that continued positive legislative developments and ETF market trends could keep Bitcoin’s momentum going. With the prospect of renewed legislation like Senator Cynthia Lummis’s Bitcoin Act, which suggests a government acquisition of one million Bitcoin over five years, BTC seems poised for potential further gains.

Monitoring Future Developments

As the cryptocurrency landscape evolves, investors are advised to keep a close watch on forthcoming legal updates from the SEC regarding the Ripple case and broader legislative developments. These factors will likely shape price trends and determine the future trajectory for both XRP and Bitcoin.

For ongoing market insights and forecasts, be sure to follow our latest articles and expert analysis.

Share this article: