Bitwise CEO Predicts Ripple’s Shift to Full XRP Control: What It Means
Ripple’s Strategic Shift: From Payments to XRP Treasury Operations
Ripple’s Control Over XRP Supply Sparks Corporate Transformation Discussions
Ripple is potentially evolving from a company primarily focused on payment solutions to one that emphasizes its substantial XRP holdings as a reserve asset. Bitwise CEO Hunter Horsley has proposed that Ripple could soon be recognized as an “XRP treasury company,” reflecting the increasing corporate interest in accumulating XRP and the firm’s growing authority over the cryptocurrency.
According to Ripple’s Q1 2025 XRP Markets Report, the company currently possesses 4.56 billion XRP. Notably, approximately 42% of the total XRP supply remains under Ripple’s management, facilitated through a structured monthly escrow release system.
Corporate Valuation and XRP Holdings: A New Perspective
Ripple’s CEO, Brad Garlinghouse, has raised concerns regarding the company’s valuation of $11 billion, arguing that it fails to reflect the true value of Ripple’s extensive XRP holdings. He emphasized that this figure is outdated, pointing to a balance linked to XRP that is closer to $100 billion.
This shift in focus comes amid a growing trend among public companies exploring treasury strategies involving XRP. For instance, Trident Digital Tech Holdings is looking to secure $500 million in XRP, while Webus International has set a target of $300 million. Additionally, VivoPower and Wellgistics Health have successfully raised $121 million and $50 million, respectively, in XRP for their corporate reserves.
Expanding Digital Asset Services with Stablecoin Initiatives
Ripple’s ambitions in the digital asset space extend beyond XRP itself. The company’s stablecoin, RLUSD, has surpassed a market capitalization of $500 million. To enhance its credibility in the digital asset realm, Ripple has partnered with Bank of New York Mellon (BNY Mellon) to act as the custodian for RLUSD.
As the oldest bank in the United States, BNY Mellon is recognized for its expertise in digital asset custody services, lending traditional financial credibility to Ripple’s stablecoin initiatives across both the XRPL and Ethereum platforms.
This strategic move underscores Ripple’s commitment to expanding its influence in the digital asset market while solidifying its position as a key player in the evolving landscape of cryptocurrencies.
