Ripple

Ripple Labs, under CEO Brad Garlinghouse, is aggressively bridging Web3 and traditional finance. Speaking at Ripple Swell 2025, Garlinghouse outlined a strategy leveraging blockchain’s benefits for financial services, fueled by acquisitions like Hidden Road and GTreasury, totaling $4B. The company launched Ripple Prime, a brokerage for U.S. institutions. This move aligns with increased institutional digital asset interest and a more favorable regulatory environment. Ripple also aims to license XRP Ledger technology, despite regulatory delays hindering broader institutional adoption.

Ripple secured $500 million in funding, valuing the company at $40 billion. Led by Fortress Investment Group, Citadel Securities, and others, the funding reflects institutional interest and a perceived favorable shift in US crypto regulation. Ripple will use the capital to expand its product portfolio beyond payments through strategic acquisitions. While not currently focused on an IPO, Ripple aims to deepen relationships with financial partners and contribute to its ongoing “record year of growth”, focusing on digital asset solutions for institutions including crypto asset custody and stablecoins.