When Bitwise launched their XRP ETF on November 20, 2025, they didn't just enter the market—they made a statement. With the simplest possible ticker symbol ("XRP") and one of the lowest expense ratios in the space, Bitwise positioned itself as the go-to choice for cost-conscious investors.
Fund Overview
| Ticker Symbol | XRP |
| Exchange | NYSE Arca |
| Launch Date | November 20, 2025 |
| Expense Ratio | 0.34% |
| Custodian | Coinbase Prime Custody |
| Fund Type | Spot XRP ETF |
| Issuer Website | bitxrpetf.com |
Why Bitwise Stands Out
Bitwise isn't a newcomer to crypto. They've been managing cryptocurrency index funds since 2017, and their Bitcoin ETF has been one of the most successful launches in the space. Here's what makes them different:
1. Crypto-Native Expertise
Unlike traditional asset managers dipping their toes into crypto, Bitwise was built from the ground up around digital assets. Their team includes former Google engineers, hedge fund managers, and early crypto adopters who understand the technology deeply.
2. The Ticker Advantage
Securing the ticker "XRP" was a strategic coup. When retail investors search for XRP exposure in their brokerage account, Bitwise's fund is the first result. It's simple, memorable, and exactly what people are looking for.
3. Transparent Holdings
Bitwise publishes their XRP holdings daily. Unlike some competitors who update weekly or monthly, you always know exactly how much XRP backs your shares.
Fees & Expense Ratio
At 0.34% annually, Bitwise's XRP ETF is competitively priced. Here's what that means in real dollars:
- $10,000 investment: $34/year in fees
- $50,000 investment: $170/year in fees
- $100,000 investment: $340/year in fees
These fees are deducted automatically from the fund's net asset value—you don't pay them directly. Over a 10-year holding period, lower fees compound significantly. A 0.34% fee vs. a 0.75% fee could mean thousands of dollars in savings.
Holdings & Custody
The Bitwise XRP ETF holds actual XRP tokens in cold storage custody with Coinbase Prime, one of the most trusted institutional custodians in crypto. Key security features include:
- Cold Storage: The vast majority of XRP is held offline, protected from hacks
- Insurance Coverage: Custodial assets are insured against theft and security breaches
- Regular Audits: Third-party auditors verify holdings quarterly
- SOC 2 Compliance: Coinbase maintains enterprise-grade security certifications
As of the latest reporting, Bitwise holds approximately 59.6 million XRP tokens, representing one of the largest institutional XRP positions in the United States.
Performance Since Launch
The Bitwise XRP ETF launched during a particularly bullish period for XRP. Since November 20, 2025:
- First Day: Over $105 million in inflows
- First Week: Accumulated significant AUM, becoming one of the top XRP ETFs by volume
- Trading Volume: Consistently ranks among the highest daily trading volumes
The fund tracks XRP's spot price closely, with minimal tracking error. When XRP moves, the ETF moves with it—exactly as designed.
How to Buy
Buying shares of the Bitwise XRP ETF is as simple as buying any stock:
- Open a brokerage account (Fidelity, Schwab, TD Ameritrade, Robinhood, etc.)
- Search for ticker "XRP" on NYSE Arca
- Place a buy order (market or limit)
- Done. The shares appear in your portfolio
You can also hold shares in tax-advantaged accounts like IRAs and 401(k)s, making this an attractive option for retirement investors seeking crypto exposure.
Bitwise vs. Competitors
| Feature | Bitwise (XRP) | Grayscale (GXRP) | Canary (XRPC) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.34% | 0.35% | 0.50% |
| Exchange | NYSE Arca | NYSE Arca | Nasdaq |
| Custodian | Coinbase | Coinbase | BitGo |
| Daily Holdings Update | Yes | No | Yes |
| Crypto Experience | Since 2017 | Since 2013 | New |
The Verdict
The Bitwise XRP ETF is the best choice for most investors looking for straightforward XRP exposure. The combination of:
- Low fees (0.34%)
- Simple ticker (XRP)
- Trusted custodian (Coinbase)
- Daily transparency
- High liquidity
...makes it hard to justify choosing a higher-fee alternative unless you have specific needs that Bitwise doesn't meet.
Who Should Buy Bitwise?
- Long-term holders: Lower fees compound over time
- IRA investors: Perfect for tax-advantaged accounts
- First-time crypto investors: Simplest way to get XRP exposure
- Active traders: High liquidity means tight spreads
Who Might Look Elsewhere?
- Those wanting premium/discount plays: Grayscale's trust structure can trade at premiums
- Institutional clients with specific custodian requirements: May prefer different custodians
Ready to Invest?
Track the Bitwise XRP ETF's real-time performance on our live dashboard. Compare it against other XRP ETFs, monitor daily volumes, and watch the race to 1 billion XRP unfold.
Want to explore other options? Check out our guides on the Canary Capital XRP ETF or Grayscale XRP ETF.
Related Reading
- What is an XRP ETF? - Complete beginner's guide
- How to Invest in XRP ETFs - Step-by-step instructions
- Understanding ETF Flows - Learn to read market signals
- XRP ETF Comparison - Compare all XRP ETFs
Sources
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Cryptocurrency investments are volatile—you could lose money. Always conduct your own research.
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