BlackRock, the global investment giant, has made a strategic decision to steer clear of launching a Ripple XRP ETF (exchange-traded fund).
The primary reason behind this decision hinges on the ongoing regulatory ambiguity surrounding XRP.
No Plans to Launch Ripple ETF
According to Fox Business senior reporter Charles Gasparino, BlackRock’s opposition to an XRP ETF lies in the ongoing Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) vs Ripple lawsuit. Judge Torres’ recent classification of XRP as a “regulatory gray area” – not squarely fitting into the security or non-security category – adds layers to this complexity.
This legal ambiguity a significant challenge for financial institutions. Indeed, these prioritize regulatory compliance and risk management in their operations.
Still, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse maintains SEC Chair Gary Gensler is a “political liability.” Garlinghouse’s strong words reflect the tensions between the crypto industry and regulatory bodies. It highlights the latter’s influence on the market and institutional decisions.
“I do think the chair of the SEC, Gary Gensler, is a political liability in the United States. And I think he’s not acting in the interests of the citizenry, he’s not acting in the interests of the long-term growth of the economy, and I don’t understand it,” Garlinghouse said.
XRP Price Could Fall Off a Cliff
The market sentiment around XRP further complicates BlackRock’s position. Technical analyst Ali Martinez the cryptocurrency’s struggle to maintain the crucial support level at $0.55.
As the Ripple-SEC saga continues, it serves as a pivotal case for the crypto industry, potentially setting precedents for how digital assets are treated under US law. Until more clarity and stability in the regulatory environment, major institutions will likely remain on the sidelines.
