Author: Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf

Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse announced that the long-running Ripple SEC case has ended, marking a significant victory for the San Francisco-based blockchain infrastructure company. This development reflects the shifting regulatory environment under President Donald Trump, whose administration has been quick to ease enforcement actions against crypto companies.

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) had pursued Ripple since 2020, claiming that its sale of XRP constituted an unregistered securities offering. However, Garlinghouse confirmed in a Bloomberg Television interview on Wednesday that the case is now over.

Ripple’s Legal Battle with the SEC

The Ripple SEC case began in December 2020 when the SEC alleged that Ripple raised funds illegally by selling XRP without proper registration. For over four years, Ripple fought the lawsuit, spending more than $150 million in legal expenses to defend itself.

In a pivotal 2023 ruling, U.S. District Judge Analisa Torres determined that XRP only fell under securities law when sold to institutional investors. Although the SEC appealed that decision, it has now chosen to drop the case as part of a broader wave of regulatory changes.

XRP Price Surges Following the News

Following the announcement that the Ripple SEC case had concluded, the price of XRP surged by as much as 15%, reaching $2.59 on Wednesday. XRP, which remains the third-largest cryptocurrency by market value after Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH), has skyrocketed by nearly 400% since Trump’s election victory in November.

Analysts suggest that the termination of the case provides regulatory clarity for XRP, potentially encouraging further institutional adoption and paving the way for exchange-traded funds (ETFs) tied to the token.

Ripple Considers Next Legal Steps

Despite the favorable outcome, Ripple still faces a lingering decision regarding a $125 million fine that remains in escrow. Ripple’s Chief Legal Officer Stuart Alderoty stated that the company is “taking it under advisement” as they weigh whether to continue appealing aspects of the case or pay the fine.

This decision could have implications for Ripple’s future operations and its potential plans to expand its blockchain infrastructure offerings.

Ripple Eyes Acquisitions, Not IPOs

With the Ripple SEC case behind it, Ripple is now turning its focus toward acquisitions. Garlinghouse confirmed that filing for an initial public offering (IPO) is not a top priority at this time. Instead, Ripple plans to explore acquiring other blockchain infrastructure companies to strengthen its position in the rapidly evolving crypto space.

“We’ll look at other things that are blockchain infrastructure companies,” Garlinghouse said, emphasizing Ripple’s commitment to growth through strategic acquisitions.

SEC Eases Crypto Crackdown Under Trump

The end of the Ripple SEC case is part of a broader trend where the SEC, under Trump’s administration, has paused or dismissed several high-profile legal actions against crypto companies. Notable cases include lawsuits against Coinbase Global Inc. (NASDAQ:COIN) and Binance Holdings Ltd., along with threats of legal action against Robinhood Markets Inc. (NASDAQ:HOOD) and other decentralized platforms like Uniswap Labs and OpenSea.

Trump’s pro-crypto stance has ushered in a friendlier regulatory climate, providing relief to the digital asset industry that had been under intense scrutiny during President Joe Biden’s administration.

Ripple’s Political Influence in Crypto

Ripple has also played a notable political role during this shift. The company was a major donor during the last congressional election cycle and contributed $5 million worth of XRP to Trump’s inauguration festivities. Ripple executives, including Garlinghouse and Alderoty, have been photographed with Trump at Mar-a-Lago, underscoring the company’s close ties to the new administration.

Trump’s pro-crypto rhetoric and actions have won him praise from members of the digital asset community, with Ripple positioned as one of the key beneficiaries of this policy shift.

What’s Next for Ripple and XRP?

With the Ripple SEC case concluded, Ripple is well-positioned to pursue its growth agenda, focusing on acquisitions and expanding its influence in blockchain infrastructure. The regulatory clarity provided by the SEC’s decision could also accelerate institutional interest in XRP, paving the way for potential XRP-focused ETFs that may follow the success of Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs.

As Ripple navigates its next steps, the conclusion of this landmark case signals a new era for crypto regulation in the United States, one where innovation may thrive under a more accommodating regulatory framework.

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Volatility Shares LLC is gearing up to introduce the first-ever Solana ETFs in the United States. These funds, set to launch on Thursday, mark a significant step toward expanding structured exposure to digital assets beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum. The two offerings, the Volatility Shares Solana ETF (SOLZ) and the Volatility Shares 2X Solana ETF (SOLT), received approval from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) earlier this month.

What Are Solana ETFs?

Solana ETFs provide investors with an opportunity to engage in the cryptocurrency market through regulated, futures-based instruments. SOLZ tracks Solana futures to offer standard exposure, while SOLT delivers leveraged exposure, doubling potential gains and losses. Unlike spot ETFs, which hold the underlying cryptocurrency, futures-based ETFs track price movements through contracts.

This approach allows investors to gain exposure to Solana (SOL) without directly managing digital assets, offering a more structured and potentially lower-risk method of participating in the crypto market.

Market Impact: Solana’s Price Remains Stable

Despite the significant news of the Solana ETF launch, Solana’s market price has shown little immediate reaction. SOL traded at approximately $131.68, reflecting a modest 6.3% increase over the past 24 hours. Currently, Solana holds a market value of about $67 billion, positioning it as one of the largest cryptocurrencies by market capitalization.

Market analysts suggest that the muted price response indicates that much of the ETF-related optimism had already been priced in. However, the introduction of these ETFs may still catalyze long-term interest from institutional investors seeking regulated exposure to Solana’s high-speed, low-fee blockchain technology.

Solana ETFs Follow Bitcoin Futures Success

The launch of Solana ETFs mirrors the success of Bitcoin futures ETFs, which attracted substantial investor demand in 2023 and 2024. These instruments provide a regulated alternative for investors who prefer to avoid the complexities and security risks of managing cryptocurrency wallets.

The introduction of Solana ETFs reflects a growing trend in the crypto market, where futures-based products provide indirect exposure while mitigating certain risks associated with direct asset ownership. This approach also appeals to traditional investors seeking to diversify their portfolios beyond Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH).

Filing and Approval Timeline

Volatility Shares initially filed for the Solana ETFs in December 2024, paving the way for regulatory approval earlier this month. The two ETFs come with distinct cost structures:

SOLZ: 0.95% expense ratio

SOLT: 1.85% expense ratio

These fees cover the management and operational costs associated with maintaining the futures contracts that back the ETFs.

“Our launch comes at a time of renewed optimism for cryptocurrency innovation in the U.S.,” said Justin Young, CEO of Volatility Shares, in an interview with Bloomberg.

Why Solana ETFs Matter for Investors

Solana’s blockchain has gained traction for its ability to process transactions at lightning speed and with minimal fees. As one of the most prominent Ethereum competitors, Solana appeals to developers and decentralized application (dApp) creators seeking scalable solutions.

With the introduction of Solana ETFs, U.S. investors now have an additional avenue to access this technology without the complexities of direct crypto ownership. These ETFs offer regulated, futures-based exposure, providing a balance between potential returns and risk management.

Conclusion: A New Era for Solana Investors

The launch of the first Solana ETFs in the U.S. marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of digital asset investment. Volatility Shares’ introduction of SOLZ and SOLT offers investors a new way to gain exposure to Solana while benefiting from the security and oversight of regulated futures contracts.

As the crypto market continues to mature, these innovative products could prompt a broader shift in how investors approach cryptocurrency exposure, paving the way for increased institutional participation in the future.

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The crypto and stock correlation has intensified in 2025, making it difficult to distinguish between the movements of digital currencies and traditional equities. Since Donald Trump returned to the White House, the S&P 500 is down over 4% year-to-date, while crypto’s global market cap has shed more than 20%. This downward trend suggests that both crypto and stocks are responding to similar economic and geopolitical pressures.

Once considered a safe haven from traditional financial markets, cryptocurrencies are now moving in tandem with Wall Street, reacting to headlines about tariffs, global trade tensions, and central bank policies. As crypto’s $2.86 trillion market cap experiences fluctuations, many investors wonder whether the once-independent digital asset class is now dancing to the same tune as equities.

Crypto and Stocks Responding to the Same Headlines

It’s becoming increasingly evident that crypto and stock correlation is no longer coincidental. Crypto traders are closely monitoring economic indicators, inflation data, and geopolitical developments—just like their Wall Street counterparts.

For instance, on March 10, 2025, when the S&P 500 plunged 2.7%, Bitcoin (BTC) followed suit, dropping below $77,000. Similarly, when global equities rebounded on March 17, the MSCI World Index and S&P 500 both jumped over 3% in two days. Although crypto remained slightly in the red, exchange-traded fund (ETF) net inflows increased by $149.2 million, according to Coingecko.

The correlation was further emphasized when Donald Trump announced reciprocal tariffs set to kick in on April 2. Equities gave back over 1% of their gains during the next trading session, while Bitcoin slipped below $82,000, mirroring the decline.

Trump’s Tariff Threats Shake Global Markets

President Donald Trump’s tariff policies are weighing heavily on both crypto and traditional markets. His announcement of 50% tariffs on Canadian steel and other proposed trade restrictions sent shockwaves through financial markets.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) dropped 0.83%, while the Nasdaq Composite Index shed 1.5%, signaling a potential correction that could linger for weeks. Crypto markets responded similarly, with Bitcoin’s price swinging dramatically, reflecting fears of prolonged economic uncertainty.

Even in Asia, China’s Hang Seng Index hit a three-year high, rising 23% in 2025, while Japan’s Nikkei gained 1.5%. Meanwhile, European markets remained steady, with the Stoxx 600 climbing 0.46%, reflecting optimism over Germany’s approval of increased government borrowing.

Crypto Market Caught in the Crossfire

The heightened crypto and stock correlation has crypto holders paying close attention to Trump’s policies and geopolitical developments. Market data suggests that crypto investors are becoming more like equity traders, reacting to inflation trends, retail sales, and global political shifts.

When Trump hinted at a possible ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia, equity markets briefly climbed, and Bitcoin followed the same upward trajectory. However, when negotiations stalled, both markets dipped once again, demonstrating the interconnectedness between these traditionally separate asset classes.

Fed’s Policy and Its Impact on Crypto and Stocks

The upcoming Federal Reserve (Fed) decision on interest rates adds another layer of uncertainty to both crypto and stocks. Currently, the Fed’s benchmark interest rate stands between 4.25% and 4.5%, and while a rate cut could stimulate economic activity, it also poses inflation risks.

Crypto markets, often seen as a hedge against inflation, may rally if rates remain unchanged or are reduced. Conversely, rising inflation could trigger a sell-off in both crypto and stocks. As Jerome Powell and the Fed deliberate their next move, crypto traders and stock investors alike are bracing for market volatility.

ETF Inflows Highlight Growing Institutional Interest

Amid the ongoing market turbulence, institutional investors have not shied away from crypto. Recent data from Coingecko revealed that ETF inflows surged by $149.2 million in a single day, reflecting renewed interest in digital assets despite the broader market downturn.

This uptick in ETF inflows suggests that institutional investors view crypto as a long-term bet, even as short-term volatility persists. However, with the Fed’s rate decision looming and Trump’s tariff policies creating uncertainty, both markets remain on edge.

Why Are Crypto and Stocks Moving Together?

The growing crypto and stock correlation can be attributed to several factors:

Institutional Adoption: As traditional financial institutions pour money into crypto, they treat it similarly to equities, increasing its sensitivity to macroeconomic trends.

Geopolitical Concerns: Global tensions, such as Trump’s tariff threats and the Ukraine-Russia conflict, impact risk sentiment across all asset classes.

Regulatory Uncertainty: Changes in US regulatory policies can create waves in both crypto and equity markets, as seen with the potential for stricter anti-money laundering rules affecting crypto platforms.

What Lies Ahead for Crypto and Stocks?

As 2025 unfolds, the relationship between crypto and stocks is expected to strengthen further. With Trump’s policies shaping market sentiment, the Fed’s rate decisions looming, and geopolitical uncertainties persisting, crypto and stock markets will likely continue to move in tandem.

Crypto’s evolution from a niche asset class to a mainstream investment option has brought it closer to traditional markets. While this correlation may unsettle investors seeking diversification, it underscores the growing maturity of the digital asset space.

Whether this trend persists or diverges depends on future policy decisions, global events, and investor sentiment. Until then, investors in both crypto and stocks should prepare for heightened volatility and stay attuned to macroeconomic signals that could shape their portfolios.

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Financial technology (fintech) firms and crypto companies are increasingly applying for bank charters to expand operations and reduce borrowing costs. A bank charter provides these firms with legitimacy in the eyes of customers and regulators, while lowering the cost of doing business by allowing them to tap into deposits.

With the Trump administration signaling a more business-friendly approach, fintech firms are cautiously optimistic about obtaining bank charters. Industry experts predict that a deregulatory regime will encourage competition and open up opportunities for more fintechs to gain bank status.

Why Are Fintechs Seeking Bank Charters?

A bank charter provides several advantages to fintech companies, including:

Lower Cost of Capital: A charter enables fintech firms to access deposits, reducing their reliance on costly venture capital or high-interest borrowing.

Increased Legitimacy: Becoming a licensed bank boosts consumer trust and regulatory credibility, attracting more customers and investors.

Expanded Market Reach: Bank charters allow fintechs to offer a broader range of financial services, enhancing their competitive position.

According to Carleton Goss, a partner at Hunton Andrews Kurth, fintech companies applying for charters can significantly lower their borrowing costs, making it easier to grow and scale their businesses.

Trump Administration’s Pro-Growth Stance

The recent surge in charter applications follows signals from the Trump administration indicating a willingness to ease regulations and support innovation in financial services.

Nathan Stovall, director of financial institutions research at S&P Global Market Intelligence, noted that during Trump’s first term, there was an increase in charter applications. Industry experts expect a similar wave of applications under Trump’s current administration.

Federal Reserve Governor Michelle Bowman, nominated by Trump as vice chair for supervision, has advocated for faster approvals of bank charters to encourage competition and innovation.

Additionally, Travis Hill, acting chair of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), has publicly stated that the agency would promote charter applications to ensure a healthy pipeline of new entrants into the banking sector.

Regulatory Challenges Facing Fintech Charters

Despite the potential benefits, fintech companies face several challenges in obtaining bank charters.

High Costs and Compliance Requirements

Setting up a bank typically requires between $20 million and $50 million in initial capital, according to legal experts. Additionally, compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) laws and the Bank Secrecy Act poses significant hurdles for aspiring fintech banks.

Slow Approval Process

Historically, bank charter approvals have been slow, with applications sometimes taking years to process. Between 2010 and 2023, only an average of five bank charter applications were approved annually, compared to 144 per year between 2000 and 2007.

As fintech companies apply for charters, regulators remain cautious, emphasizing the need for thorough scrutiny to maintain financial stability. Nigel Moden, global banking and capital markets leader at EY, pointed out that while regulatory processes remain rigorous, there are hopes that the turnaround time for applications will improve under the current administration.

Recent Charter Approvals Signal Growing Momentum

A notable sign of momentum came when SmartBiz, a fintech firm, received approval to acquire Centrust Bank, a Chicago-based community bank. This acquisition granted SmartBiz a national bank charter, marking the first approval of its kind since 2021.

Industry insiders view this approval as a positive sign that more fintechs could follow suit, paving the way for greater competition and innovation in the banking sector.

Fintechs and Crypto Firms Eyeing Bank Status

Several fintech and crypto companies have shown interest in obtaining bank charters to diversify their offerings and gain regulatory credibility. Industry experts highlight that these companies want to “get ahead of the curve” by securing licenses that could reduce operational costs and provide a competitive advantage.

Alexandra Steinberg Barrage, a partner at Troutman Pepper Locke, noted that many fintech clients are “cautiously optimistic” about the prospects of securing bank charters in the current regulatory environment.

Impact on Banking Industry Competition

If more fintechs successfully obtain bank charters, it could reshape the financial services landscape by introducing specialized banks that cater to specific customer segments and regions. This increased competition could benefit consumers by driving down costs and fostering innovation.

However, experts caution that while fintechs may inject competition into the banking sector, the number of U.S. banks is still expected to decline due to an anticipated rebound in mergers and acquisitions among regional lenders.

Outlook for Fintech Bank Charters in 2025

As fintech and crypto companies navigate the charter application process, industry observers remain optimistic about the future. With the Trump administration’s pro-business stance and regulators signaling a willingness to facilitate innovation, fintech firms have a unique opportunity to expand their influence in the financial services sector.

While challenges remain, including high capital requirements and stringent regulatory scrutiny, the potential benefits of a bank charter—lower capital costs, increased legitimacy, and broader market reach—make it an attractive option for fintechs looking to secure a stronger foothold in the industry.

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Disclaimer

U.S. President Donald Trump has made it clear that he intends to position the United States as the “crypto capital of the planet.” His administration has already taken significant steps to promote digital assets, including appointing a cryptocurrency czar and issuing executive orders to enhance the country’s leadership in financial technology. One of the most striking moves is the creation of a strategic Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC) reserve, signaling a shift toward legitimizing digital assets as mainstream financial instruments.

For investors, this policy shift raises several questions: Will regulatory clarity boost crypto adoption? How will this impact digital asset prices? And most importantly, is cryptocurrency a safer investment under Trump’s leadership?

Young Investors Are Betting on Crypto

Trump’s crypto-friendly stance has encouraged a new wave of investor enthusiasm, particularly among younger generations. A 2024 survey by market research firm YouGov Dot Com Ltd. revealed that 42% of Gen Z investors in the U.S. own cryptocurrency, compared to 36% of millennials, 24% of Gen X, and only 8% of baby boomers.

For many young investors, Trump’s endorsement of digital assets reinforces their belief in crypto’s long-term viability. With the president advocating for clearer regulations and potential government-backed reserves, some see this as a green light to increase their holdings. Even in Canada, where regulations differ, Trump’s influence is sparking increased interest in the sector.

Bitcoin’s Rollercoaster Ride Under Trump

Despite Trump’s backing, Bitcoin has had a volatile year. After initially soaring past US$100,000 following his election victory, it has since faced sharp fluctuations, dipping below US$80,000 before rebounding. The unpredictability of Bitcoin underscores the speculative nature of cryptocurrency, which remains highly sensitive to macroeconomic factors and regulatory changes.

Beyond Bitcoin, investors are also exploring alternative digital assets, including Ethereum (CRYPTO:ETH) and meme coins tied to Trump’s persona. While these assets may offer short-term gains, they also come with heightened risks, as their value can be driven more by social sentiment than fundamental utility.

Regulatory Uncertainty: A Double-Edged Sword

One of the biggest unknowns surrounding Trump’s crypto policy is how regulation will evolve. While his administration appears to favor innovation, the regulatory landscape remains fluid. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has softened its stance on certain crypto assets but continues to crack down on unregistered securities and fraudulent projects.

Trump’s plan to establish a strategic Bitcoin reserve may also impact market dynamics. If the U.S. government becomes a significant Bitcoin holder, it could add a layer of stability to the asset. However, it may also increase government control over digital currencies, potentially limiting some of the decentralization benefits that attract investors to crypto in the first place.

Risks and Opportunities for Crypto Investors

For those considering investing in cryptocurrency under Trump’s leadership, there are both opportunities and risks:

Potential for Regulatory Clarity: If Trump follows through on his commitment to pro-crypto policies, clearer regulations could attract institutional investors, driving market growth.

Government Involvement: The U.S. Bitcoin reserve could add legitimacy to digital assets, but it also raises concerns about government influence over the market.

Market Volatility: Despite growing adoption, cryptocurrency remains a high-risk asset. Investors should be prepared for price swings.

Security and Fraud Risks: While crypto offers opportunities, it is still vulnerable to hacks, scams, and unregulated markets.

Final Thoughts

Trump’s crypto policy is making waves in the digital asset space, but investors should tread carefully. While his administration’s support may boost confidence in the market, cryptocurrency remains speculative and highly volatile. Those interested in investing should conduct thorough research, consider their risk tolerance, and stay informed on regulatory developments.

For now, one thing is clear—Trump’s influence on crypto is reshaping the landscape, and investors will need to navigate both the opportunities and challenges that come with it.

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