Ripple's XRP Push Divides Crypto Community

Ripple's Push for XRP Inclusion in U.S. Crypto Reserve Sparks Debate

The possibility of establishing a U.S. crypto strategic reserve has sparked intense discussions within the cryptocurrency community, with Ripple’s native token, XRP, at the center of the controversy. Ripple has been vocal about its ambitions to position the token as a key component of such a reserve, aligning its goals with the current administration’s emphasis on promoting American innovations. However, opinions within the industry remain deeply divided.

Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse has expressed optimism about the asset’s potential inclusion, suggesting that incorporating assets like XRP alongside Bitcoin would be consistent with efforts to support U.S.-based companies and technologies. Despite Ripple’s efforts, many industry leaders are skeptical of XRP’s suitability for a U.S. crypto reserve. Ryan Selkis, founder of Messari, has been one of the most vocal critics, advocating for Bitcoin as the sole cryptocurrency fit for such a reserve. He cited its decentralized nature, reliance on energy-backed mining, and dominant global position as critical factors.

Charles Hoskinson, founder of Cardano, struck a more neutral tone. While he acknowledged Ripple’s efforts, he suggested that Bitcoin should be the primary focus for a government-backed crypto reserve. This cautious approach reflects the broader hesitation among industry leaders about moving beyond Bitcoin when considering digital assets for a strategic reserve.

The U.S. government has shown interest in exploring the feasibility of a digital asset reserve. A working group has been tasked with evaluating the concept, with Bitcoin initially dominating early discussions. However, attention has recently shifted toward other assets, including XRP and Solana, particularly those marketed as “American-made” technologies. Ripple’s lobbying efforts have drawn both support and criticism. Advocates argue that including a diverse range of digital assets could strengthen the foundation of a U.S. crypto reserve. However, critics warn that prioritizing assets like XRP could undermine the initiative’s credibility. Riot Platforms and other Bitcoin-focused advocates have expressed concerns that Ripple’s push for inclusion may detract from Bitcoin’s proven stability and decentralization.

A central point of contention is Ripple’s substantial control over its native token, XRP. The company reportedly holds above 50% of the total token supply, raising questions about its decentralization and suitability for a government reserve. Critics argue that this level of control creates potential conflicts of