CryptosRus (@CryptosR_Us), a well-known cryptocurrency news account on X, has leaked internal emails from Ripple, revealing the company’s stance on Bitcoin’s centralization. These emails suggest Ripple deliberately promoted the idea that Bitcoin is controlled by China. The implications of this revelation could reshape the narrative around decentralization in the crypto space. Many now question whether Ripple used this claim to position XRP as the superior alternative. Let’s explore how this controversy unfolded and what it means for XRP’s future.
Ripple’s Claim: Bitcoin and Ethereum Are “Chinese-Controlled”
In 2018, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse publicly argued that Bitcoin suffered from excessive centralization. He pointed out that four mining pools in China controlled over 50% of Bitcoin’s supply. Ripple’s internal emails reinforced this narrative, suggesting that Bitcoin’s decentralization was merely an illusion. The company also labeled Ethereum as “Chinese-controlled,” drawing sharp criticism from Ethereum’s co-founder, Vitalik Buterin.
Ripple used this argument to strengthen its legal defense against the SEC. The company insisted that if regulators classified Bitcoin and Ethereum as commodities, they should not label XRP as a security. Ripple maintained that XRP operated on a more decentralized network, making it less vulnerable to control by a single entity. However, critics quickly challenged this claim, questioning Ripple’s motives and strategy.
Crypto Community Reacts to Ripple’s Allegations
Ripple’s stance triggered an immediate backlash from key figures in the crypto industry. Vitalik Buterin dismissed Ripple’s arguments, accusing the company of desperation. Coinbase co-founder Fred Ehrsam criticized Ripple’s claims, calling them a last-ditch effort to avoid regulatory consequences. Many saw Ripple’s approach as an attempt to shift focus away from its legal troubles.
The crypto industry also noted a major shift in Bitcoin’s mining landscape. In 2021, China banned Bitcoin mining, forcing miners to relocate. As a result, China’s influence over Bitcoin significantly declined. This shift weakened Ripple’s earlier claims, making its argument appear outdated. Many now question whether Ripple truly believed its statements or if it strategically pushed a misleading narrative.
What This Means for Ripple and XRP
Ripple’s emails confirm that the company actively shaped public perception to favor XRP over Bitcoin and Ethereum. However, critics point out that Ripple still holds a significant share of XRP’s total supply. This raises concerns about whether XRP is truly decentralized. Ripple’s strategy of attacking Bitcoin’s centralization while ignoring its own influence over XRP continues to spark debate.
Despite these concerns, Ripple maintains strong support from the XRP community. Prominent analyst David Gokhshtein believes XRP will continue to grow, regardless of past controversies. Ripple’s advancements in cross-border payments and its growing partnerships strengthen its position in the market. As the lawsuit nears its conclusion, the company appears focused on long-term adoption rather than past debates.
XRP’s Future in the Evolving Crypto Landscape
Ripple’s past strategies may have helped shape its reputation, but the industry has evolved. Institutional investors now prioritize real-world utility over narratives about decentralization. Ripple’s ongoing efforts to secure partnerships with financial institutions suggest that its focus has shifted toward expanding XRP’s use cases.
If Ripple wins its legal battle, XRP could experience significant price growth. A favorable outcome would provide regulatory clarity, encouraging more institutions to adopt the digital asset. On the other hand, if Bitcoin and Ethereum continue dominating the market, Ripple may need to rethink its competitive strategy.
The crypto market is at a turning point. Investors, traders, and enthusiasts closely watch how Ripple navigates its legal and strategic challenges. The outcome of this case will not only shape XRP’s future but could also influence broader crypto regulations. Regardless of past controversies, Ripple remains a key player in the evolving financial landscape.
Final Thoughts on Ripple’s Strategic Moves
Ripple’s internal emails offer a rare glimpse into the company’s aggressive positioning tactics. While its arguments once seemed compelling, changing market conditions have weakened their impact. The controversy highlights the competitive nature of the crypto space, where perception plays a crucial role in adoption and investment.
Read Also: WhiteRock Integrates XRP Ledger for Tokenized Assets
As the SEC lawsuit nears its end, Ripple faces a critical moment. The company must now focus on adoption, innovation, and regulatory compliance. The coming months will determine whether XRP thrives or struggles to maintain its position in an increasingly competitive market.
