Discussions surrounding the inclusion of XRP in a potential U.S. strategic digital asset reserve have gained momentum following an executive order signed by former President Donald Trump.
This order, introduced just days into his presidency, seeks to establish a comprehensive framework for digital asset regulation while exploring the concept of a national digital asset stockpile .
Executive Order Sparks Debate
The executive order directs the formation of a Presidential Working Group dedicated to assessing the future of digital assets within the United States. According to Fox Business journalist Eleanor Terrett, the group’s focus extends beyond regulatory clarity to include the potential establishment of a strategic digital asset reserve.
Initial speculation suggested that such a reserve would primarily feature Bitcoin. However, recent discussions have expanded the scope to consider other assets, including XRP. Scott Melker, host of The Wolf of All Streets Podcast, also hinted at this development.
Reports indicate that Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse was among the crypto executives who recently met with President Trump. This interaction has further fueled speculation about XRP’s potential role in the proposed reserve.
Criticism from Bitcoin Maximalists
The idea of diversifying the reserve has not been universally accepted. Pierre Rochard, Vice President of Research at Riot Platforms, opposed XRP’s inclusion.
He claimed Ripple and XRP pose the biggest threat to a Bitcoin-based reserve, accusing Ripple of lobbying to block a Bitcoin-exclusive reserve while advancing its CBDC initiatives. Rochard argued the administration initially aimed to make Bitcoin the foundation of a national reserve, but Ripple’s lobbying undermines this goal.
We are on twitter, follow us to connect with us :- @TimesTabloid1
— TimesTabloid (@TimesTabloid1) July 15, 2023
Ripple’s Stance on Digital Asset Diversification
Replying to Rochard, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse dismissed claims that the company lobbying is at odds with the administration’s goals. Instead, Ripple’s engagement with policymakers is to foster innovation and support American companies.
Unless you are choosing to ignore the core tenants of the POTUS campaign (which aggressively supports American companies and technologies), our efforts are actually INCREASING the likelihood of a crypto strategic reserve (which includes bitcoin) happening.
— Brad Garlinghouse (@bgarlinghouse) January 23, 2025
One community member shared a video where Garlinghouse suggested that a digital asset reserve should not be limited to Bitcoin but adopt a diversified approach.
Other Experts Weigh In
Vet (@Vet_X0), a validator on the XRP Ledger, also weighed in, stating that Rochard and people like him are the true obstacles to the crypto reserve, as they fail to see the benefits of the broader crypto industry for society.
A report from the New York Post supported this perspective, suggesting that the administration might prioritize American-developed assets such as XRP, Solana, and USDC in its plans.
Meanwhile, criticisms from the Bitcoin community continue to emerge, with some alleging that Ripple’s financial contributions to political initiatives have influenced policy decisions. However, this view was recently debunked by a former Ripple employee, who explained the reasons for Ripple’s financial involvement in politics.
Disclaimer: This content is meant to inform and should not be considered financial advice. The views expressed in this article may include the author’s personal opinions and do not represent Times Tabloid’s opinion. Readers are urged to do in-depth research before making any investment decisions. Any action taken by the reader is strictly at their own risk. Times Tabloid is not responsible for any financial losses.
Follow us on Twitter , Facebook , Telegram , and Google News
