- BlackRock’s digital assets director will speak at Ripple’s Swell 2025, sparking widespread speculation of a potential XRP ETF filing.
- Ripple’s ongoing SEC case may be resolved by mid-August, removing a major regulatory obstacle and adding momentum to XRP ETF discussions.
- Analysts believe BlackRock expanding beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum could attract institutional demand for XRP through a spot ETF product.
Ripple confirmed the speaker lineup for its Swell 2025 conference in London on November 4 and 5. The event will feature Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse, Nasdaq CEO Adena Friedman, and Fidelity executive Cynthia Lo Bessette. Among the most notable additions is Maxwell Stein, BlackRock’s Director of Digital Assets, whose presence has stirred strong speculation in financial markets.
Digital assets researcher Anders suggested that a BlackRock XRP ETF could soon be filed following the announcement. His remarks fueled conversations across the crypto community, as BlackRock already leads in spot Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs. ETF analyst Nate Geraci added that it would be strategically important for BlackRock not to overlook XRP and Solana, both among the top non-stablecoin assets by market capitalization.
SEC Legal Deadline Adds Weight to Market Expectations
Ripple’s drawn-out legal dispute with the SEC may be nearing its conclusion. Both parties face an August 15 deadline to settle remaining appeals. A resolution could eliminate a significant regulatory barrier that has weighed on XRP’s broader adoption. Analysts argue that such clarity would increase the likelihood of an ETF tied to XRP, especially if market leaders like BlackRock push forward.
Other asset managers, including Bitwise, 21Shares, and Franklin Templeton, are waiting for decisions on pending crypto ETF applications. Many proposals have faced delays, although the SEC recently acknowledged BlackRock’s Ethereum ETF application, which includes staking. This signals regulators may be increasingly open to digital asset products beyond Bitcoin. Consequently, speculation of an XRP ETF has accelerated as the market observes shifting regulatory sentiment.
Institutional Capital Could Enter XRP Ecosystem
An XRP ETF backed by BlackRock could attract significant institutional investment and strengthen the asset’s standing within traditional finance. Experts believe BlackRock’s involvement would likely accelerate future ETF approvals. As Ripple’s Swell 2025 approaches, the appearance of a top BlackRock executive beside global financial leaders continues to draw heightened market attention.
