XRP News Today: Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse compared to Steve Jobs by John Deaton

John Deaton, a prominent lawyer in the XRP community, has sparked a debate within the crypto industry by comparing Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse to Steve Jobs, one of the greatest tech visionaries of our time. In a recent post, Deaton suggested that the title of “Steve Jobs of crypto” should go to either Garlinghouse or Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong, highlighting their bold leadership and significant contributions to the industry.

Deaton's relationship with Garlinghouse dates back to the high-profile lawsuit between Ripple and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which concluded in 2025. Deaton filed a legal brief in support of XRP holders during the case, and Garlinghouse endorsed Deaton when he ran for U.S. Senate in 2024. This mutual support showcases the strong ties and respect among these industry leaders.

Both Garlinghouse and Armstrong have been instrumental in advocating for clear crypto regulations. Their companies, Ripple and Coinbase, have engaged in major legal battles with regulators, demonstrating their commitment to innovation and growth. Deaton's praise for these leaders suggests that their visionary approach to the industry is comparable to Steve Jobs' transformative impact on the tech world. Deaton also mentioned Vlad Tenev, CEO of Robinhood, as another visionary leader in the crypto space.

Despite criticism from some users about Ripple's product-market fit, the company continues to expand its presence in global payments. Ripple's new stablecoin, RLUSD, aims to make cross-border payments faster, cheaper, and more reliable, reflecting the bold thinking associated with leaders like Steve Jobs. This move positions Ripple as a significant player in the financial services sector, further solidifying its role in the industry.

Deaton's comments have ignited discussions about the qualities that define effective leadership in the crypto industry. Some argue for a focus on technological innovation and decentralized solutions, while others emphasize regulatory compliance and legal navigation. The debate highlights the diverse opinions within the crypto community and the importance of strong leadership in shaping the industry's future.

Effective leadership in the crypto space can influence market sentiment, drive innovation, and shape the regulatory environment. As the industry matures, leaders must adapt to new technologies and regulatory frameworks, demonstrating vision, agility, and strategic foresight. The ability to navigate these complexities will be crucial for the long-term success of the industry.

In conclusion, John Deaton's praise for Brad Garlinghouse's leadership has sparked a valuable debate within the crypto community about the qualities and characteristics that define effective leadership. As the debate continues, it will be important for leaders to remain adaptable, innovative, and focused on the long-term goals of the industry. The future of the crypto space will depend on the ability of its leaders to navigate the complexities of the market and drive meaningful progress.