- Ripple CEO, David Schwartz, stated in 2017 that the company’s business model focuses on increasing the value of XRP.
- In 2024, Ripple’s valuation reached around $11.3 billion, with over $1 billion in cash and a crypto portfolio worth about $25 billion, mostly consisting of XRP.
- By October 27, 2025, Ripple’s XRP holdings had grown to nearly $106 billion, making it one of the largest crypto reserves ever managed.
In the ever-evolving world of cryptocurrency, one company continues to take a decidedly bold path. Ripple Labs, Inc. (commonly known as “Ripple”) has long signalled that its overarching objective is not simply to build payments infrastructure—but to elevate the value of its native token, XRP. That mission, articulated years ago, is now playing out in ever more visible ways.
A Statement That Still Resonates
Back on October 27, 2017, Ripple’s then-CTO David Schwartz delivered a statement that would echo through the XRP community for years to come:
“Ripple’s business model is to spend money in a way that allows the company to get maximum value for its stash of XRP. This is not a secret.”
The remark was straightforward—but powerful. By openly admitting that Ripple’s capital deployment strategy was aimed at increasing the value of XRP, Schwartz put the company’s motives on the table. He explained that Ripple invests not just for growth of the enterprise, but with an eye to boosting its XRP holdings. At the time, this view was notable: many crypto firms talked about “building the ecosystem” or “promoting adoption,” but fewer were so clearly tying their business model to the token’s value. Schwartz’s comment signalled that the token was central—not peripheral—to Ripple’s strategy.
From 2017 to Today
Although the statement was made eight years ago, it still feels relevant. Here’s why:
- It captures a consistent mindset: the token isn’t an afterthought—it’s a core asset.
- It gives context to Ripple’s subsequent moves: acquisitions, treasury management, token escrow, and more.
- It sets a benchmark against which to judge Ripple’s actions.
In 2024, Ripple disclosed a valuation of approximately US $11.3 billion, following a share buy-back of US $500 million from early investors and employees. At that time the firm reported holding over US $1 billion in cash and a crypto portfolio valued at roughly US $25 billion, with XRP forming the lion’s share of that stash. That level of exposure underscores just how materially the token figures in Ripple’s financial picture.
How Big Is the Token Stake?
According to public data from blockchain tracking and analysis:
- On one hand, data show the circulating supply of XRP and sizeable amounts locked in escrow. For example, one tracker noted about 37.2 billion XRP escrowed.
- On the other hand, multiple market commentary pieces suggest Ripple may be evolving into more of a “treasury-style” entity for XRP. In fact, the CEO of a major crypto asset manager recently said Ripple could be recognised as an “XRP treasury company” in short order.
These indicators align with Schwartz’s 2017 stance: the token is both a strategic asset and a growth driver.
What’s the Bigger Picture?
So what does this operational model tell us about Ripple’s approach—and what might it mean for XRP holders?
- Token anchoring: Ripple clearly views XRP not merely as a payment rail token, but as an asset to be grown, leveraged, and maximised.
- Capital deployment: When Ripple spends—whether on acquisitions, partnerships or infrastructure—it does so with an eye to building out XRP-centric applications or positioning the token in key roles.
- Ecosystem growth: By backing XRP in its treasury and positioning it for institutional uses, Ripple is reinforcing trust, signalling long-term commitment, and aligning its business operations with token value.
- Market messaging: By repeatedly emphasising XRP’s centrality—e.g., in recent commentary from Ripple’s CEO Brad Garlinghouse and President Monica Long—the company is sending a public message that XRP remains core to its mission.
Key Recent Moves Reflecting That Strategy
In recent years, Ripple’s moves have aligned with the vision laid out back in 2017. Some standout actions:
- Acquisition of Hidden Road Ltd. (now branded as Ripple Prime) for ~$1.25 billion, adding prime-brokerage infrastructure where XRP plays a role.
- Discussions in industry media about Ripple becoming a treasury manager of XRP — shifting from payments org to a token-asset manager.
Together, these items illustrate a deliberate alignment of business strategy with token value.
From his 2017 statement through to Ripple’s more recent strategic moves, David Schwartz’s claim that Ripple’s business model is designed to spend money in a way that maximises value for its XRP stash continues to ring true. Ripple isn’t simply an infrastructure company; it’s positioning itself as a token-asset manager with real business operations tied directly to the value of XRP. That model presents both opportunity and risk—but the signal is clear: XRP isn’t an accessory to Ripple’s business—it is central. For investors, observers and participants in the crypto market, that alignment matters. It suggests that when Ripple deploys capital, it’s thinking not just about payments or partnerships—it’s thinking about token value. That may give XRP a different investment narrative: one of utility, intentionality and integration, rather than purely speculation. Bold moves, large token holdings, strategic acquisitions—all of these suggest Ripple is playing the long game with XRP at its centre.
Disclaimer: CryptopianNews shares this for learning and info only. It’s not meant to be financial or investment advice. Crypto markets change a lot and move quickly. Investing in them can be risky. You should always look into things yourself. Talk to a trained financial advisor before making any choices about investing.
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