Ripple, the San Francisco-based blockchain behemoth, is once again in the spotlight as questions swirl around its vast holdings of XRP tokens. As of June 2025, Ripple’s ownership of nearly 48 billion XRP—roughly half of the total supply—is sparking curiosity and debate across the crypto landscape. Why? This hefty stash of digital currency could have significant implications for the token’s future and the broader market dynamics.
Ripple’s Treasury: A Double-Edged Sword?
The notion that Ripple holds such a substantial portion of XRP isn’t new, but it’s definitely stirring the pot. While some see it as a sign of confidence in the token’s potential, others worry about the concentration of power. According to crypto analyst Samantha Liu, “Ripple’s massive XRP holdings could be a blessing or a curse. It gives them influence, sure, but also puts them under the microscope.”
Here’s the catch: Ripple’s strategic decisions involving these tokens could sway market prices, impacting investors and enthusiasts alike. As of now, Ripple has repeatedly assured stakeholders that their goal is to support a healthy ecosystem. However, the sheer scale of their holdings inevitably means they wield considerable clout—something not everyone is comfortable with.
Historical Context and Market Sentiments
To truly grasp the magnitude of Ripple’s XRP holdings, it’s crucial to take a step back. Ripple, founded in 2012, has always been at the heart of discussions about decentralization versus control. Unlike Bitcoin’s more distributed ownership, Ripple’s centralized stake in XRP raises eyebrows. “It’s like having a whale in a small pond,” remarked crypto strategist Mark Thompson. “Their moves can create ripples—quite literally—across the market.”
From its inception, Ripple aimed to revolutionize cross-border payments, and XRP was designed to facilitate this vision. The token’s journey hasn’t been without its hiccups. Regulatory challenges, particularly in the United States, have been a constant shadow. Despite these hurdles, Ripple’s commitment to its mission remains unwavering.
The Road Ahead: Opportunities and Challenges
Looking forward, there are intriguing opportunities and challenges on the horizon. Ripple’s strategic partnerships with financial institutions continue to expand, potentially increasing XRP’s utility and adoption. Yet, the looming question is whether their substantial holdings will become a barrier or a bridge to greater trust and innovation.
It’s not just about holding the tokens; it’s also about how Ripple chooses to deploy them. Are they planning to flood the market, or will they continue their methodical, measured releases? As industry veteran Carla Monroe notes, “Ripple’s next steps with their XRP holdings could set the tone for the token’s future credibility and growth.”
For now, the crypto community watches with bated breath. Ripple’s influence is undeniable, but whether it harnesses this power for the good of the ecosystem or faces backlash remains to be seen. As the debate continues, Ripple’s role as a major XRP stakeholder will surely evolve, shaping the narrative of digital finance in the process.
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This article is based on: Does Ripple Really Own 48 Billion XRP?
Steve Gregory is a lawyer in the United States who specializes in licensing for cryptocurrency companies and products. Steve began his career as an attorney in 2015 but made the switch to working in cryptocurrency full time shortly after joining the original team at Gemini Trust Company, an early cryptocurrency exchange based in New York City. Steve then joined CEX.io and was able to launch their regulated US-based cryptocurrency. Steve then went on to become the CEO at currency.com when he ran for four years and was able to lead currency.com to being fully acquired in 2025.
