U.S. Crypto Reserves Should Include XRP Too: Ripple CEO Garlinghouse

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The conversation around the future of digital assets in the United States has taken a bold new turn, thanks to Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse. As the U.S. government explores the possibility of establishing a national digital asset reserve, Garlinghouse is advocating for a more inclusive and diversified approach—one that goes beyond Bitcoin to include other major cryptocurrencies like XRP.

While some voices in the crypto space argue that only Bitcoin should be part of such a reserve, Garlinghouse challenges this “maximalist” mindset. He believes that collaboration—not competition—is the key to long-term success in the cryptocurrency ecosystem.

A Vision for Crypto’s Growth Through Collaboration

At the heart of Garlinghouse’s argument is a simple yet powerful idea: the crypto industry thrives when it unites. In a widely shared tweet from January 27, 2025, he made his position clear:

Some thoughts on maximalism… let me say this as clearly as I can – the crypto industry has a real shot, here and now, to achieve the many goals we have in common, IF we work together instead of tearing each other down. This is not, and never will be, a zero-sum game.

Garlinghouse emphasizes that viewing the crypto market as a zero-sum game—where one token’s gain means another’s loss—is counterproductive. Instead, he envisions a future where Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, and other credible digital assets coexist and grow under supportive regulatory frameworks.

As an investor himself, Garlinghouse owns multiple cryptocurrencies, including BTC, ETH, and XRP, which underscores his belief in a multi-token economy. His stance isn’t just about promoting Ripple’s native asset—it's about fostering an environment where innovation isn’t stifled by ideological gatekeeping.

👉 Discover how diversification could shape the future of national crypto reserves.

Why a Diversified Digital Asset Reserve Makes Sense

Garlinghouse argues that if the U.S. establishes a government-backed digital asset reserve, it should reflect the diversity of the crypto market—not just its largest player by market cap.

“If a government digital asset reserve is created, I believe it should be diversified. It should include more than just one token, whether it’s BTC, XRP, or any other.”

This perspective aligns with traditional financial principles: diversification reduces risk and increases resilience. A reserve holding only Bitcoin exposes the nation to volatility and concentration risk. Including well-established, compliant digital assets like XRP could provide balance and broaden adoption across different blockchain use cases.

Ripple has been actively engaging with U.S. regulators to position XRP as a legitimate candidate for inclusion. The company highlights XRP’s utility in cross-border payments, its compliance with financial regulations, and its proven track record in enterprise blockchain solutions.

Unlike speculative memecoins or unregulated tokens, XRP operates within a framework designed to meet institutional standards—a quality that makes it a strong contender for any official digital reserve.

Bitcoin Maximalism vs. Inclusive Innovation

Not everyone agrees with Garlinghouse’s inclusive vision. Critics from the Bitcoin community argue that only Bitcoin has the necessary characteristics—such as decentralization, scarcity, and censorship resistance—to serve as a national digital asset.

Pierre Rochard, Vice President at Riot Platforms, contends that Bitcoin’s unique properties make it the sole appropriate choice for a strategic reserve. He also suggests that Ripple’s push for XRP inclusion is less about principle and more about corporate lobbying.

Similarly, Ryan Selkis, CEO of Messari, supports a Bitcoin-only approach, citing its first-mover advantage, network security, and cultural significance within the crypto space.

These debates reflect a deeper philosophical divide in the industry: should digital reserves be built on ideological purity or practical utility?

While Bitcoin maximalists prioritize decentralization above all else, proponents of diversification stress real-world functionality, scalability, and interoperability—areas where XRP and other enterprise-focused blockchains excel.

The Strategic Implications for U.S. Crypto Policy

The decision on whether to include multiple cryptocurrencies in a national reserve carries significant implications:

Garlinghouse warns that excluding promising technologies based on ideological bias could hinder America’s leadership in the global digital economy.

👉 See how global financial systems are adapting to multi-cryptocurrency frameworks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why does Brad Garlinghouse believe XRP should be included in a U.S. digital asset reserve?

Garlinghouse argues that XRP offers proven utility in cross-border payments, operates under strong compliance standards, and contributes to a balanced and resilient digital asset portfolio. He sees value in diversification rather than relying solely on one cryptocurrency.

Is the U.S. government planning to create a national crypto reserve?

As of 2025, there is no official confirmation of a finalized plan, but discussions are ongoing among policymakers about establishing a strategic digital asset reserve. Proposals have primarily focused on Bitcoin, though voices like Garlinghouse are pushing for broader inclusion.

What is wrong with having only Bitcoin in the reserve?

While Bitcoin has strong merits, a single-asset reserve introduces concentration risk. Diversifying across reputable cryptocurrencies can enhance stability, encourage innovation, and support multiple blockchain ecosystems that serve different economic functions.

Does Ripple have regulatory approval for XRP in the U.S.?

The legal status of XRP has been evolving. In recent developments, Ripple has made progress in its legal battles with the SEC, strengthening its case for XRP being a non-security in certain contexts. This improves its chances for institutional and governmental adoption.

How would a diversified crypto reserve benefit everyday Americans?

Such a reserve could lead to improved financial infrastructure, faster and cheaper international payments, greater access to digital finance, and stronger economic resilience through technological diversification.

Could including XRP in a national reserve increase its value?

While government inclusion could boost confidence and demand for XRP, price impacts depend on many factors including market sentiment, regulatory outcomes, and broader economic conditions.

👉 Explore how strategic crypto reserves could redefine national financial strategies.

Final Thoughts: Building a Collaborative Crypto Future

Brad Garlinghouse’s call for inclusivity reflects a growing sentiment that the future of digital finance isn’t about picking winners—it’s about building ecosystems where multiple technologies can thrive.

As the U.S. shapes its approach to digital assets, policymakers face a critical choice: follow ideological maximalism or embrace pragmatic innovation. Including assets like XRP in a national reserve may not just be financially sound—it could be essential for maintaining America’s edge in the global digital economy.

The debate is far from over, but one thing is clear: collaboration may be the most valuable currency of all.

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