Nasdaq Crypto Index to Add XRP, SOL, ADA & XLM; Ripple’s Japan Alliance Spurs Institutional Interest

Nasdaq has announced plans to expand its Crypto Index (NCI) to include XRP, Solana (SOL), Stellar Lumens (XLM), and Cardano (ADA), boosting the total number of tracked digital assets to nine. This potential expansion aims to increase institutional adoption and diversify investment choices beyond Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH), supporting broader crypto investment products such as ETFs. The move is pending approval from the U.S. SEC, with a decision expected by November 2, 2025. At present, related products like the Hashdex Nasdaq Crypto Index ETF are limited to BTC and ETH holdings, but inclusion of these new assets could pave the way for wider crypto ETF offerings. Separately, Ripple has forged a strategic partnership with a major Japanese Web Salon to drive XRP adoption and integration within Japan’s digital payments and blockchain sector. This development has contributed to a surge in XRP open interest, which climbed to $4.1 billion in June, signaling heightened speculative activity and a bullish shift in trader sentiment. Technical analysis indicates that XRP rebounded by 4%, moving from $2.10 to $2.30, with key support at $2.30. Sustained support could lead to a price target of $2.40–$2.50 (6–10% potential upside), while a break below may send prices back to $2.00. Nasdaq’s index expansion and Ripple’s Japanese initiative are seen as positive catalysts, enhancing XRP’s visibility, institutional appeal, and liquidity. Crypto traders should monitor regulatory updates and XRP’s support levels, as these developments could drive further institutional capital inflows and increased trading activity.