XRP could be leveraged as a strategic weapon by the U.S. to enhance its position in the global finance and cryptocurrency sectors.
The United States stands to gain significantly by leveraging Ripple’s innovative payment technology, its strong position regarding XRP, and the forthcoming RLUSD stablecoin.
Digital currencies are becoming crucial players in international finance, and among them is Ripple and its native cryptocurrency, XRP, which have emerged as potential strategic assets for the United States. In a recent post on X, digital asset researcher Anderson made an intriguing proposition: Why Ripple along with XRP is a strategic weapon for the US.
Anderson argued that the potential for Ripple and XRP to be positioned as strategic weapons is further bolstered by political support. As Donald Trump prepares to take office on January 20, 2025, his commitment to making the United States the “crypto capital of the world” could significantly benefit Ripple and, ultimately, the US benefiting from it.
Key initiatives, such as creating a national Bitcoin reserve, appointing David Sacks as Crypto Czar, and naming Paul Atkins, a former SEC commissioner, as the new SEC chair to protect the crypto industry from anti-crypto lawmakers, will foster a more favorable environment for all assets. Anderson pointed out key factors to support this notion.
1. Next-Generation B2B Cross-Border Payments
Ripple has developed a next-generation Business-to-Business (B2B) cross-border payments system that is controlled by a U.S.-based company. This centralization of a powerful global payment system within the United States allows the country to maintain oversight and influence over international financial transactions. The ability to efficiently facilitate cross-border payments is crucial. RippleNet, powered by XRP, provides a fast and cost-effective solution, positioning the U.S. as a leader in the digital payments arena.
2. Expansion of USD Usage
RLUSD is a stablecoin that is tied to the U.S. dollar at a 1:1 ratio, guaranteeing that it is entirely supported by U.S. dollar deposits, short-term government securities, and other safe assets. Notably, Ripple is waiting to secure approval from the New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS), which ensures that it upholds the highest regulatory standards. Once operational, the Standard Custody & Trust Company will manage its issuance on Ripple’s behalf, making it accessible across multiple exchanges.
Although XRP is facing uncertainty due to the SEC’s allegations of it being an unregistered security, the introduction of RLUSD provides Ripple with the opportunity to enter the stablecoin market, valued at close to $200 billion. This development positions XRP as a cornerstone of financial stability in the United States, reinforcing the dollar’s dominance and facilitating international transactions.
3. Ripple as the Largest Holder of XRP
Ripple holds approximately 45% of all XRP, making it the largest single holder of this cryptocurrency. This stake allows Ripple to have a considerable influence over the market dynamics of XRP, ensuring that a U.S.-based company retains a substantial position in a leading cryptocurrency.
In essence, no other entity in the cryptocurrency space fulfills all these criteria. This unique combination places Ripple in a league of its own, allowing it to harness the strengths of both traditional finance and modern digital currencies. Today, the price of XRP stands at $2.44, supported by a 24-hour trading volume of $10 billion and a current market cap of $136.89 billion.
