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What Is Ripple (XRP)?

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What Is Ripple (XRP)?

Ripple is a digital payment network and protocol launched in 2012 by Chris Larsen and Jed McCaleb. The network uses XRP as its native cryptocurrency to enable fast, low-cost international money transfers and currency exchanges. Ripple focuses on serving banks and financial institutions by replacing traditional cross-border payment systems like SWIFT.

XRP sets itself apart from other cryptocurrencies through its unique consensus mechanism and business model. While most cryptocurrencies use mining to validate transactions, XRP coins were pre-mined at launch, with 100 billion tokens created. Ripple Labs holds about 48 billion XRP in escrow, releasing up to 1 billion tokens monthly to control supply and maintain price stability.

How Does Ripple (XRP) Work?

The Ripple network processes transactions through the Ripple Protocol Consensus Algorithm, which validates transactions by having designated servers compare transaction records until they reach a supermajority agreement. This approach allows XRP to process transactions in 3-5 seconds and handle up to 1,500 transactions per second, making it significantly faster than traditional blockchain networks.

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When banks use Ripple for cross-border payments, they can either use XRP as a bridge currency or leverage Ripple’s messaging system to optimize their existing currency transfers. For example, if Bank A wants to send dollars to Bank B in euros, the network can automatically find the cheapest path, whether through direct currency exchange or using XRP as an intermediate step. This flexibility allows banks to reduce their transaction costs while maintaining control over their operations.

Key Features Of Ripple

Ripple’s architecture brings three main advantages to global transactions: speed, cost-effectiveness and scalability. These features make it a compelling alternative to traditional banking systems and other cryptocurrencies, particularly for financial institutions handling large volumes of cross-border payments.

Speed And Efficiency

Ripple processes transactions in 3-5 seconds through its consensus mechanism, compared to Bitcoin’s 10-minute block time or traditional banking systems that can take days. This speed comes from XRP’s unique validation process that doesn’t require mining. The network can settle over 1,500 transactions per second, making it practical for banks’ real-time payment needs.

Low Transaction Costs

XRP transactions cost about 0.00001 XRP (a fraction of a cent), significantly lower than Bitcoin’s fees or traditional wire transfer costs that can reach $25-50. Banks using RippleNet for cross-border payments can cut operational costs by up to 60%, eliminating the need for pre-funding nostro accounts in destination countries.

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Scalability

The XRP Ledger can process 1,500 transactions per second continuously and has potential to scale up to 50,000 TPS through optimization. Unlike blockchain networks that grow larger with each transaction, Ripple’s ledger remains efficient by pruning older transactions while maintaining their cryptographic integrity. This design prevents network congestion and keeps performance consistent even as usage grows.

Pros And Cons Of Ripple (XRP)

RippleNet and XRP showcase specific technical features, operational capabilities and limitations in the blockchain payment infrastructure. Let’s examine the key aspects of this technology.

Pros Of XRP

  1. Real financial institutions use RippleNet for cross-border payments. This proves the technology’s real-world utility and adoption.
  2. XRP transactions use minimal energy compared to Bitcoin and Ethereum. The network consumes as much energy annually as 50 U.S. households.
  3. RippleNet reduces banks’ operational costs by eliminating intermediary fees and pre-funding requirements in foreign accounts. Banks can save up to 60% on international transfer costs.

Cons of XRP

  1. Ripple Labs’ ongoing SEC lawsuit creates regulatory uncertainty around XRP’s status as a security. This limits XRP trading options in the U.S. and affects its price stability.
  2. Ripple Labs controls about 48 billion XRP in escrow. This central control over such a large portion of tokens contradicts cryptocurrencies’ decentralization principles.
  3. Most banks on RippleNet use Ripple’s technology without XRP tokens. This limits XRP’s utility and potential demand from institutional adoption.

How Can Ripple Be Used?

RippleNet serves as a payment network for financial institutions, while XRP functions as a bridge currency for cross-border transactions. Users can send XRP directly to other wallet addresses for near-instant settlements or trade it on cryptocurrency exchanges. The XRP Ledger also supports custom tokens and smart contracts for building decentralized applications.

Companies and developers can build payment solutions on the XRP Ledger using its open-source protocol. The network enables features like payment streaming, escrow mechanisms and multi-signature wallets. These tools allow businesses to create automated payment systems, set up recurring transfers or develop new financial products.

Where Do You Buy Ripple (XRP)?

Major cryptocurrency exchanges like Binance, Kraken and Bitstamp offer XRP trading pairs against other cryptocurrencies and fiat currencies. Users need to create an account, complete identity verification and deposit funds to start trading.

To store XRP, users can choose between software wallets like XUMM, hardware wallets such as Ledger or Trezor, or keep tokens on exchanges. Each wallet requires a minimum deposit of 10 XRP to activate the address and maintain the network’s stability.

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Ripple’s Risks And Challenges

The SEC lawsuit against Ripple Labs questions whether XRP sales constituted unregistered securities offerings. This legal battle created uncertainty around XRP’s regulatory status and limited its availability in the U.S. market. The outcome could affect how digital assets are classified and regulated.

Competition from other blockchain payment solutions and central bank digital currencies challenges Ripple’s market position. SWIFT’s new payment system improvements and emerging blockchain networks offer alternative solutions for cross-border transfers.

The concentrated ownership of XRP tokens by Ripple Labs raises concerns about centralization and price stability. Monthly releases from the escrow system can affect market supply, while adoption levels among RippleNet members impact long-term token utility.

Ripple’s Future

Ripple Labs continues expanding RippleNet’s reach through partnerships with banks and financial institutions worldwide. The company focuses on emerging markets like Asia and Latin America, where traditional banking infrastructure lacks efficiency. These regions present growth opportunities for faster, cheaper cross-border payments.

The development of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) opens new possibilities for Ripple’s technology. The XRP Ledger provides a ready-made infrastructure for CBDC deployment and interoperability. Several central banks explore the platform for potential CBDC pilots and implementations.

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Ripple’s push into tokenization and smart contracts aims to diversify its use cases beyond payments. The company develops features for NFTs, DeFi applications and institutional asset trading on the XRP Ledger, expanding the network’s capabilities in the digital asset ecosystem.

Bottom Line

Ripple’s payment network and XRP cryptocurrency offer an alternative to traditional banking infrastructure for cross-border transactions. The technology combines speed, low costs and scalability with growing institutional adoption.

RippleNet faces regulatory challenges and competition but continues evolving through new partnerships, CBDC initiatives and expanded blockchain features. The platform’s success depends on regulatory clarity, institutional adoption and its ability to maintain technical advantages in the digital payments space.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the difference between Ripple and Bitcoin?

Bitcoin operates as a decentralized peer-to-peer payment system, while Ripple focuses on providing payment solutions for financial institutions. XRP transactions confirm in seconds and cost less than Bitcoin due to its consensus mechanism, which doesn’t require mining.

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Is XRP a good investment?

Past performance does not predict future results, and cryptocurrency markets involve substantial risks. Research XRP’s technology, use cases and regulatory situation before making any financial decisions.

What are the risks of investing in cryptocurrency?

Cryptocurrencies experience high price volatility and face regulatory uncertainties. Users should consider potential cybersecurity threats, market manipulation risks and the possibility of complete loss of capital.

How can I get started with Ripple (XRP)?

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Create an account on a cryptocurrency exchange that lists XRP, complete identity verification and transfer funds to purchase tokens. Set up a secure wallet to store your XRP and maintain proper security practices.

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Bitcoin will hit $185,000 in 2025, says leading crypto firm

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Bitcoin will hit 5,000 in 2025, says leading crypto firm

Bitcoin price made history in 2024, and if a recent report is to be believed, the flagship cryptocurrency could reach $150,000 in the first half of 2025 and potentially hit $185,000 by the fourth quarter.

Galaxy Research, the research arm of the digital asset management firm Galaxy, released this report last week, and with that, it has aligned itself with another digital asset management firm, VanEck, which has also anticipated Bitcoin appreciating by more than 50% from its current levels by 2025.

Key excerpts from Galaxy Research’s report shared on the firm’s X account provide a glimpse into their outlook for Bitcoin and the broader cryptocurrency ecosystem.

Spot Bitcoin ETPs to cross $250 billion in AUM

The firm predicted that spot Bitcoin exchange-traded products (ETPs) will continue to thrive, potentially surpassing $250 billion in assets under management (AUM) by 2025. Alex Thorn, the firm’s Head of Research, noted on X that U.S. Bitcoin ETPs are just $24 billion shy of overtaking all U.S. gold ETPs in AUM.

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Ether to cross above $5,500 in 2025

Galaxy Research reported another big projection related to Ethereum’s native token, Ether, and said it would trade above $5,500 in 2025. That will happen because of the relaxation in regulations and the corporations’ adaptation and experimentation with the Ethereum technology.

Along with that, the Ethereum staking rate will increase by 50%, per report.

In the world of cryptocurrency, staking involves committing a certain amount of cryptocurrency to a blockchain network for a specified period. This process plays a crucial role in supporting the network’s operations, including validating transactions and maintaining its overall security.

“The Trump administration is likely to offer greater regulatory clarity and guidance for the crypto industry in the U.S. Among other outcomes, it is likely that spot-based ETH ETPs will be allowed to stake some percentage of the ETH they hold on behalf of shareholders,” Galaxy Research posted on X.

Dogecoin will hit $1 in 2025

As per the report, Dogecoin—the most popular memecoin and a favorite of Elon Musk—will reach $1 by 2025.

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“Dogecoin market cap will be eclipsed by the Department of Government Efficiency, which will identify and successfully enact cuts in amounts exceeding Dogecoin’s 2025 high-water mark market cap, “ Galaxy Research posted on X.

Other than these forecasts, the report offers optimistic predictions for stablecoins, top publicly traded companies adopting Bitcoin, and other market trends. However, it clearly mentioned that these projections are not intended as investment advice but are purely illustrative of potential market directions.

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Best Cryptocurrency To Buy Now | Top 10 Crypto Coins To Invest Before Trump Presidency – Brave New Coin

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Best Cryptocurrency To Buy Now | Top 10 Crypto Coins To Invest Before Trump Presidency – Brave New Coin

Questions like “What’s the best cryptocurrency to buy now?” have taken center stage as crypto coins such as JetBolt, Polkadot, Chainlink, Solana, Aptos, Kaspa, Celestia, Bitcoin, Pepe, and Dogecoin capture attention. JetBolt (JBOLT), in particular, has blown past the 200-million-token milestone during its presale thanks to its innovative zero-gas technology and AI-powered tools.

As the spotlight intensifies, JetBolt, Polkadot, Chainlink, Solana, Aptos, Kaspa, Celestia, Bitcoin, Pepe, and Dogecoin are positioned to dominate discussions before Trump’s return to the White House. Read on as we dive into why crypto enthusiasts have added these projects to the list of Top 10 Crypto Coins To Invest Before Trump Presidency.

Best Crypto To Buy Now: A Brief Overview 

  1. JetBolt (JBOLT): Trailblazing crypto with zero-gas technology and AI-driven tools.
  2. Kaspa (KAS): High-speed blockchain using innovative DAG architecture.
  3. Toncoin (TON): Blockchain integrated with Telegram for seamless social applications.
  4. Solana (SOL): Fast and cost-efficient blockchain powering DeFi and NFTs.
  5. Bitcoin (BTC): The original cryptocurrency and digital gold.

Best Crypto To Buy Now: Complete Insight Into the Top 10 Crypto Coins To Invest Before Trump Presidency

  1. JetBolt (JBOLT)

JetBolt has quickly established itself as a standout in the cryptocurrency landscape, selling over 100 million tokens during its presale. It’s not just the numbers driving interest; JetBolt’s forward-thinking features are reshaping what users expect from an altcoin.

One of JetBolt’s most defining innovations is its zero-gas technology. Built on the Skale Network, JetBolt eliminates gas fees entirely, making blockchain transactions smoother and more cost-effective. For developers building dApps or casual users making token transfers, JetBolt opens doors that were previously locked behind high costs.

But the innovation doesn’t stop there. JetBolt’s AI-powered aggregator curates third-party crypto news and tags stories with bullish or bearish sentiment. This adds a layer of entertainment and simplicity, turning what could be a complex stream of information into an engaging experience for users who want to keep abreast of all things crypto.

The presale has also attracted significant attention thanks to its unique incentives. Early buyers can access up to 25% additional JBOLT tokens through Alpha Boxes, a feature that rewards bulk purchases.

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  1. Polkadot (DOT)

Polkadot connects blockchains, letting them share data and work together. This approach could transform industries like finance and logistics, where systems often operate in silos. By supporting Web3 development, Polkadot positions itself as a cornerstone of blockchain’s collaborative future.

  1. Chainlink (LINK)

Chainlink brings the outside world onto the blockchain, making smart contracts smarter. Its technology helps DeFi projects use real-time data, like prices or weather reports, to execute transactions. LINK is already a crucial part of the blockchain ecosystem and continues to expand as more use cases emerge.

  1. Solana (SOL) 

Solana offers speed and low costs, making it a favorite for developers. From NFTs to DeFi platforms, its growing ecosystem attracts innovators who need scalability. Solana’s efficiency ensures it stays relevant in a competitive market.

  1. Aptos (APT)

Aptos, designed by former Meta engineers, is making waves for its unique programming language, Move. Its focus on security and performance makes it ideal for NFTs and dApps. As blockchain demand grows, Aptos is committed to meet user and developer needs.

  1. Kaspa (KAS)

Kaspa’s architecture stands out by enabling parallel block creation, making transactions faster. It’s efficient, sustainable, and still maintains decentralization. This balance of innovation and eco-consciousness makes it one to watch.

  1. Celestia (TIA)

Celestia shakes up blockchain design by letting developers customize what they need. Its modular system supports scalable and secure projects, paving the way for next-gen blockchain applications. Celestia makes building easier without compromising performance.

  1. Bitcoin (BTC)

As the first cryptocurrency, Bitcoin remains the foundation of the digital asset space. Known as digital gold, it’s widely used as a store of value and for cross-border payments, offering security and trust to its users. As of press time, BTC’s total market cap is $1.89T.

Bitcoin

Chart of Bitcoin’s market capitalization over the past year (Source: CoinMarketCap)

  1. Pepe (PEPE)

Pepe Coin taps into internet culture, rallying a community of meme enthusiasts. Its value thrives on social engagement, creating opportunities during viral trends. While speculative, its loyal following drives attention and excitement.

  1. Dogecoin (DOGE)

Dogecoin’s journey from joke to genuine utility is remarkable. Low fees and a fun community make it perfect for tipping and microtransactions. Its widespread adoption shows it has staying power beyond the memes.

Conclusion: What Are The Best Cryptocurrencies To Buy Before Trump’s Presidency?

This article explored the best cryptocurrencies to consider before Trump’s presidency in 2025, featuring JetBolt, Polkadot, Chainlink, Solana, Aptos, Kaspa, Celestia, Bitcoin, Pepe, and Dogecoin. Each project offers something unique: from Polkadot’s multi-chain network to Chainlink’s real-world data integrations and Solana’s unmatched speed for dApps.

Notably, JetBolt steals the show with its forward-thinking innovations. Its zero-gas transactions and AI-driven sentiment aggregator have set a new standard for user-friendly blockchain technology.

FAQs

What are the top crypto coins to invest in before Trump’s presidency?

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The top cryptocurrencies to consider before Trump’s presidency include:

  • Polkadot
  • Chainlink
  • Solana
  • JetBolt
  • Aptos
  • Kaspa
  • Celestia
  • Bitcoin
  • Pepe
  • Dogecoin

What is the best cryptocurrency to buy now?

Choosing the best cryptocurrency to buy now isn’t just about picking the trendiest name—it’s about understanding what each project brings to the table and how it aligns with your financial goals. Currently, coins like JetBolt, Polkadot, Chainlink, Solana, Aptos, Kaspa, Celestia, Bitcoin, Pepe, and Dogecoin are making waves. Take JetBolt, for example. This rising star is rewriting the rules with its zero-gas technology, offering a smoother, more affordable blockchain experience.

Explore JetBolt’s groundbreaking features today by heading to the official JetBolt website, following JetBolt on X, or joining the Telegram community.

This article does not provide financial advice. Always conduct thorough research and understand the risks before buying crypto coins.


This is a sponsored article. Opinions expressed are solely those of the sponsor and readers should conduct their own due diligence before taking any action based on information presented in this article.

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Tether's Success Sparks Banks' Interest in Stablecoins | PYMNTS.com

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Tether's Success Sparks Banks' Interest in Stablecoins | PYMNTS.com

Inspired by Tether’s success, the world’s banking giants are showing interest in stablecoins.

As Bloomberg News reported Saturday (Dec. 28), some banks are already there, with Societe Generale – Forge (SG-Forge) opening its euro-backed stablecoin to retail investors earlier this year. Revolut is reportedly considering its own version, as is AllUnity, a venture involving the Deutsche Bank-owned DWS.

Meanwhile, the report added, American banks are expected to follow suit once Congress enacts stablecoin legislation. A similar thing happened in Europe: the adoption of the Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) regulation and Tether’s decision to discontinue its EURt stablecoin has opened the door for competitors.

“Do I think that other banks will be issuing their own stablecoins?” Jean-Marc Stenger, CEO of SG-Forge, said in an interview with Bloomberg. “The answer is yes. It’s heavy lifting, I am not sure it will happen any time soon, but it will happen.”

He added that his firm is already in discussions with other banks that want to use its stablecoins, and is also exploring partnerships or white-labeling its techs to allow banks to issue their own coins.

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Visa, meanwhile, launched a tokenization network in October for banks to issue stablecoins, is collaborating with BBVA on a pilot in next year, and is in talks with many other banks.

“We’ve seen demand from banks in Hong Kong, Singapore and Brazil,” Cuy Sheffield, Visa’s head of crypto, told Bloomberg. “We are actively engaged with a number of banks across the world at various stages of the process.”

As PYMNTS wrote in October, the scale of Visa’s network and its relationship with financial institutions around the world allow it to add stability and legitimacy to stablecoins. 

“By enabling banks to issue their own stablecoins and integrate tokenized deposits into their systems, Visa could foster widespread adoption, reducing the risk of market panic that often leads to de-pegging events,” that report said. 

“Moreover, as banks enter the fray with their regulatory frameworks in place, the perception of stablecoins as a credible asset class could improve.”

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Writing about the issue last week, PYMNTS argued that stablecoins’ rise has become impossible to dismiss, as the currency continues its ascent as the foundation of cross-border and enterprise crypto payments and a bridge to traditional finance.

“Cross-border payments, historically plagued by high fees and slow transaction times, underwent a significant transformation in 2024,” that report said. “Blockchain technology emerged as a key enabler, offering transparency, speed and cost efficiency. Stablecoins played a crucial role, allowing businesses to bypass traditional correspondent banking networks and settle transactions almost instantaneously.”

 

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