Ripple defines a new development course: CEO Brad Garlinghouse's strategy focuses on accelerating XRP and RLUSD

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Data Last Updated: 2026-01-15 14:35:36

Currency: XRP (XRP) - Ripple

• Current Price: $2.13
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The Ripple case is a story about how an innovative blockchain company is trying to transform global payments. This week, CEO Brad Garlinghouse announced an ambitious plan that shifts the company’s focus from short-term market fluctuations to building a real ecosystem of value. His statements from San Francisco signal a key turning point in strategy: from waiting for regulatory clarity to actively shaping the future of digital finance.

Why this moment matters for the crypto market

The market heard what it was waiting for. Ripple’s CEO officially confirmed that the company is betting on the long-term development of two critical assets: the native token XRP and the planned stablecoin RLUSD. This is not just another corporate press release. It’s a rethinking of how traditional financial institutions adopt digital assets.

Garlinghouse outlined three interconnected directions:

First, global expansion. Ripple is ramping up efforts in key geographic markets—Asia, Europe, the Middle East. This means deepening partnerships with hundreds of financial institutions already working with the company.

Second, regulatory clarity. The company is moving from passive waiting to constructive dialogue with governments worldwide. This step is crucial for launching RLUSD, as stablecoins are at the center of regulatory attention.

Third, energy-efficient infrastructure. Unlike proof-of-work networks, XRP Ledger uses a consensus mechanism that consumes minimal energy. This positions Ripple’s assets as an environmentally responsible choice for ESG-mandated institutions.

From XRP to RLUSD: a double-edged market move

The story of XRP is volatility, legal battles, and waiting. Even after a partial victory in 2023, the asset’s price remains influenced by uncertainty. Garlinghouse understands this and is trying to change the narrative.

XRP as a currency-bridge. The main role of the token is to provide liquidity in the On-Demand Liquidity (ODL) RippleNet product. Instead of correspondent banks holding reserves in foreign currencies, they can instantly convert via XRP. Increasing the number of institutions using XRP in ODL directly impacts demand and transaction volumes.

RLUSD as a competitor in a crowded market. There are already many stablecoins. Tether and USD Coin dominate. But Ripple has a unique advantage—established relationships with hundreds of regulated financial institutions. RLUSD will not compete for retail traders; it is targeted at B2B settlements and corporate payments.

What industry experts say about this approach

Industry analysts generally approve of this direction. As fintech researcher notes, sustainable growth of crypto assets requires two things: clear practical utility and regulatory compliance. Ripple is attacking both simultaneously.

However, the challenge remains enormous. Announcing a strategy is not enough—implementation is key. Success metrics include:

• Increase in ODL corridors utilizing XRP
• Number of transactions and volumes passing through the network
• Adoption of RLUSD by financial institutions in real payment flows
• Achieving regulatory clarity for stablecoins in key jurisdictions

How this affects XRP holders

For those holding XRP, Garlinghouse’s words matter practically. If the company truly increases the use of the token in real payment operations, it lays a fundamental foundation for asset valuation—far from speculation and forum rumors.

However, turning strategic intentions into measurable network activity is a long-term project. The first year will show whether institutions are truly ready to adopt XRP en masse in their payment processes or if it remains a tactical experiment for a few.

Regulatory context: a window of opportunity

The CEO’s strategy unfolds at a critical moment. In the US, bills on stablecoins are being discussed. Global regulators, from the IMF to European authorities, are outlining rules for digital assets. For Ripple, this is a window of opportunity—to be a voice shaping legislation rather than just complying with it.

RLUSD is not even launched yet, but its status as a stablecoin of a company actively working with regulators already gives it certain advantages over alternatives.

Conclusion: testing period ahead

Garlinghouse, in his role as Ripple’s CEO, essentially announced: 2025 is the year of action, not promises. The strategy on paper looks logical: expansion + regulatory work + robust technology = long-term success.

Reality will be more complex. Competition in the stablecoin market is fierce, institutions are slow to switch to new systems, and regulatory clarity remains a distant horizon. But the fact that Ripple’s CEO chose this moment to publicly take on such ambitions indicates confidence in the company’s capabilities.

The next 12 months will show whether Ripple can turn long-term XRP and RLUSD plans into real financial impact, or if it will remain another cycle of hopes and disillusionments in the crypto industry.