XRP News Today: Webus International Partners with Samara Alpha to Manage $300 Million in XRP

Webus International Limited, a Nasdaq-listed AI mobility firm, has announced a significant strategic move into the cryptocurrency space. On June 2, the company disclosed a partnership with Samara Alpha Management LLC, an SEC-registered investment advisor, to manage up to $300 million in digital assets, with a primary focus on XRP. This alliance is outlined in a Delegated Digital Asset Management Agreement completed on May 28, 2025, and subsequently filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as a Form 6-K.

The SEC filing details Webus's intention to establish a $300 million crypto treasury reserve, managed exclusively by Samara Alpha. This move underscores Webus's commitment to diversifying its treasury operations into the digital asset realm, particularly with XRP, a token known for its liquidity and institutional recognition despite regulatory scrutiny. The decision to disclose this through regulatory compliance rather than marketing efforts highlights the long-term strategic importance of this initiative for Webus.

The agreement between Webus and Samara Alpha includes several key components. Samara Alpha will have discretionary oversight of the digital assets transferred, encompassing staking allocations, on-chain strategies, over-the-counter (OTC) execution, and custodial platforms. The maximum amount under management is set at $300 million, unless adjusted or waived. The transfer of assets will be staged programmatically to address market timing and regulatory considerations.

Security is a critical aspect of the agreement. All funds will be held in multi-signature wallets, requiring multiple signatures for any transaction. Webus will retain one signature key to maintain control and mitigate counterparty risk, aligning with best practices in crypto custody and institutional standards.

The financial mechanics of the deal include a 2% annualized assets under management fee, paid quarterly, and a 20% performance fee benchmarked over a high-water mark. Staking rewards will be split 80/20 in favor of Webus, with other fees charged at cost, such as custody fees, gas charges, and audit fees. These fees are in line with high-end crypto asset managers, reflecting the secure and regulatory-friendly nature of the operations.

Webus's focus on XRP is strategic. Despite its regulatory challenges with the SEC, XRP remains one of the most liquid and institutionally integrated digital assets. Its popularity among companies seeking to test digital asset reserves without high volatility, coupled with Ripple's strong international partnerships and compliant on/off ramps, makes it an attractive choice for Webus's global operations.

Samara Alpha, while not widely known, is respected in institutional circles for its regulatory adherence and financial performance in the complex crypto market. Under the leadership of CIO Adil Abdulali, the firm has been translating traditional finance theories into evolving crypto markets, making it a suitable partner for Webus's digital asset management needs.

Webus's move into crypto treasury management is part of a growing trend among public and private companies exploring digital asset reserves. This trend often focuses on stablecoins or utility tokens like XRP, reflecting a broader shift towards multi-asset treasury strategies. Webus's decision to partner with Samara Alpha and establish a significant XRP reserve positions the company at the forefront of this emerging corporate trend, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to financial management in the digital age.