Gensler’s Exit Opens Door for XRP, Solana ETFs, But Litecoin May Lead the Way

After the departure of former SEC Chair gary gensler gary gensler Gary Gensler is the chairman of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). His studies in finance and blockchain at MIT have helped him develop U.S. cryptocurrency regulations and policies. Quick Facts Full name Gary Scott Gensler Birth 18-10-1957, Baltimore, Maryland, United States Nationality American Education MBA from the University of Pennsylvania Marital status Married to Francesca Danieli (1986-2006) Net worth Estimated $100 million   Gensler has advocated for enhanced supervision of digital assets, seeking to regulate cryptocurrencies similar to securities. His work at the SEC has focused on safeguarding investors, regulating crypto exchanges, and establishing stablecoin policies.   Gary Gensler - Career Highlights 1997 – Became Assistant Secretary of the Treasury. 2009 – Led CFTC, regulating financial derivatives post-2008 crisis. 2018 – Taught blockchain and crypto at MIT. 2021 – Appointed SEC Chairman, focusing on crypto regulations. 2022 – Proposed stricter rules for crypto exchanges. 2023 – Took legal action against major crypto firms. 2024 – Advocated for stronger stablecoin and DeFi regulations.   Gary has collaborated with multiple lawmakers in formulating crypto policies. Even with disagreements with crypto investors regarding crypto policies, he continues to be a key player in the changing dynamic between regulatory frameworks and blockchain advancement.   Awards & Recognitions of Gary Gensler Year Institution  Description 2009 U.S. Treasury Financial Regulation Leader 2018 MIT Blockchain & Crypto Educator 2021 SEC SEC Chairman Overseeing Crypto Policies 2023 Bloomberg Most Influential Regulator in Crypto 2024 Forbes Top Policy Maker in Digital Assets   Useful Links to Connect With Gary Gensler Platform Link X (formerly Twitter) twitter.com/GaryGensler CFTC website Chairman Gary Gensler   Chairman the potential approval of more spot crypto ETFs (exchange-traded funds) has become a hot topic in the industry. Recently, several altcoins, including XRP, Solana, and Litecoin, have seen filings for spot ETFs. However, the real question remains: will the SEC approve these products soon?

According to Nate Geraci, President of The ETF Store, the approval of such ETFs depends largely on regulatory clarity. In an interview with Thinking Crypto, he said that currently, the prevailing narrative suggests that Litecoin may be in a better position to receive approval, as it’s seen as similar to Bitcoin. Bitcoin is categorized as a non-security commodity, and there are no major legal challenges involving Litecoin at this moment, making it an attractive option for approval.

Will XRP ETFs Debut Soon?

However, the situation is different for XRP, as it is embroiled in ongoing legal issues. This adds a layer of complexity to the potential approval for spot ETFs. Despite these challenges, Geraci believes that all options are still on the table. The key factor will be how quickly the SEC can resolve questions about which cryptocurrencies are classified as securities versus commodities.

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Timeline Remains Uncertain

With the recent transition in SEC leadership, under new Chairman Paul Atkins, it remains to be seen what his priorities will be. Geraci remains optimistic but notes that crypto will likely be a key focus, though the timeline is uncertain.

For spot crypto ETFs to be approved, there is no specific requirement for the underlying asset to have an existing futures market, despite Bitcoin and Ethereum taking that route. The crucial element is a “surveillance sharing agreement” with a regulated market of significant size. This agreement ensures that market activities can be monitored effectively. 

In summary, while it’s not guaranteed, Geraci believes that additional spot crypto ETFs—including those for XRP, Solana, and Litecoin—are likely in the future.

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