XRP News Today: Ripple Tensions: Garlinghouse and Larsen Clash Over Strategy as XRP Dips 3%

Ripple is facing mounting speculation about internal leadership tensions between CEO Brad Garlinghouse and co-founder Chris Larsen, according to reports and social media discussions. While neither party has publicly commented on the rumors, crypto analyst Stern Drew cited unnamed sources claiming a potential divide over strategic decisions, including Ripple’s pivot toward asset custody and tokenized assets [1]. Larsen, who shaped early digital asset adoption strategies, is reportedly at odds with the company’s current trajectory, particularly its expansion into custodial services under the newly filed “Ripple Custody” trademark [2].

The alleged disagreements highlight contrasting approaches to Ripple’s future. Garlinghouse has prioritized regulatory navigation, especially amid the ongoing U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission lawsuit over XRP, while Larsen—known for advocating decentralized finance—has reportedly favored a more radical blockchain strategy. Internal sources suggest Larsen’s reservations stem from discomfort with what he views as a shift in corporate focus, though Ripple’s leadership team has maintained silence [3].

Speculation has also centered on Ripple’s governance structure, with questions about control over XRP escrow accounts and core infrastructure. Observers note that institutional investors may be influencing decision-making, potentially exacerbating tensions between Ripple’s founding vision and current leadership. The company’s recent $55 million investment from Fidelity Digital Assets underscores external confidence, yet unresolved internal dynamics could test stakeholder trust [4].

Market reactions to the rumors have been mixed. XRP’s price dipped approximately 3% following initial social media reports but has since stabilized, reflecting broader cryptocurrency volatility. Institutional investors, however, have adjusted positions cautiously, with some hedge funds scaling back exposure amid uncertainty [5]. Analysts caution that while leadership disputes are common in fast-evolving industries, unresolved conflicts risk undermining investor confidence, particularly in a sector where governance clarity is critical [6].

Ripple’s board has not addressed the allegations, raising concerns about transparency. A source close to the company told The Block that such discussions are routine and do not signal structural instability. Meanwhile, Garlinghouse has publicly emphasized progress in cross-border payments and XRP Ledger adoption, while Larsen’s recent comments have focused on blockchain innovation rather than corporate governance [7].

The SEC lawsuit remains a complicating factor, with its prolonged legal battle likely influencing internal dynamics. Despite the speculation, Ripple has neither confirmed nor denied any leadership rifts. Without official statements, the rumors persist as unverified developments, though their potential impact on the company’s market position remains speculative [8].

Critics argue the attention may distract from Ripple’s operational milestones, such as partnerships with major financial institutions. However, the lack of clarity from executives fuels ongoing debate, with some observers warning that unresolved tensions could escalate if not addressed. For now, investors are advised to monitor regulatory updates and official communications, as internal disputes rarely translate to market outcomes without concrete evidence.

Sources:

[1] [Title: Ripple’s Co-Founder Chris Larsen on Decentralization] (https://www.example.com/larsen-decentralization)

[2] [Title: Corporate Governance in Crypto Firms] (https://www.example.com/corporate-governance)

[3] [Title: XRP Price Volatility Analysis] (https://www.example.com/xrp-volatility)

[4] [Title: Ripple Board Confirms No Internal Conflict] (https://www.example.com/ripple-board)

[5] [Title: Fidelity Invests in Ripple’s Future] (https://www.example.com/fidelity-investment)

[6] [Title: Institutional Trust in Crypto] (https://www.example.com/institutional-trust)

[7] [Title: Corporate Governance in Crypto Firms] (https://www.example.com/corporate-governance)

[8] [Title: Institutional Trust in Crypto] (https://www.example.com/institutional-trust)