XRP Just Got Called Out

John Squire has drawn significant attention to remarks made by Bitwise CIO Matt Hougan, who suggests that XRP is poised to be a central figure in an impending surge of institutional investment. Hougan forecasts that 2026 could usher in an "ETF Palooza," with XRP potentially emerging as one of the most substantial beneficiaries.

The ETF Palooza Forecast

Hougan informed CNBC that he anticipates the launch of over 100 new cryptocurrency ETFs and ETPs in the upcoming year. He specifically noted, "We’re going to see a lot of single-asset crypto ETPs. What I’m most excited about, though, is the growth of index-based crypto ETPs."

His reasoning is that many new investors will prefer straightforward exposure to a diversified basket of digital assets rather than attempting to pick individual winners like Ethereum, Solana, or Bitcoin. Hougan elaborated, "They don’t necessarily have an opinion on Ethereum versus Solana; they just want to buy a broad swath of the crypto market and hold it for the long term."

Why XRP Rises to the Fore

Hougan’s specific endorsement of XRP is noteworthy. He has previously identified XRP among eleven altcoins that could potentially benefit from the SEC’s newly established generic listing standards for crypto ETPs. This perspective positions XRP not merely as a speculative asset but as a fundamental component for future index-based ETPs.

This suggests that Bitwise views XRP as a foundational element for mainstream, regulated crypto products, moving beyond its perception as a niche investment.

Regulatory Shift: The Catalyst

A significant factor contributing to Hougan’s optimism is the SEC’s recent adoption of new generic listing rules for crypto ETPs. These updated regulations are designed to expedite the approval process, potentially reducing the timeframe from hundreds of days to as little as 75. Hougan believes this regulatory reform could be the direct catalyst for the anticipated ETF boom.

However, Hougan also offers a note of caution, emphasizing that faster approvals alone do not guarantee substantial inflows. He pointed out that listing speed is insufficient to stimulate demand without supporting broader market fundamentals that encourage genuine investment.

The Institutional Playbook

Bitwise's strategic actions appear to align with Hougan’s forward-looking vision. The firm recently introduced its Solana Staking ETF, which not only tracks the price of SOL but also incorporates staking yields, presenting an attractive proposition for long-term, yield-seeking investors. Hougan is convinced that products of this nature, alongside index ETPs that include XRP, will fundamentally alter how institutions and mainstream investors engage with digital assets.

He expressed strong confidence, stating, "This industry will be 10 times bigger than it is today."

A Public Call-Out, Not Just a Nod

John Squire’s reporting goes beyond simply relaying Hougan’s optimistic outlook; it frames it as a direct acknowledgment. This is not mere casual praise but a deliberate public highlighting of XRP as a viable candidate to underpin the next generation of regulated crypto products. For those closely observing XRP, this signal carries significant weight, indicating that Bitwise is not just recognizing XRP but actively planning to elevate its standing.

Should Hougan’s forecast materialize, the forthcoming wave of ETFs could redefine the flow of capital into the cryptocurrency market. XRP may finally achieve the prominent position it has long pursued.