Ripple is following an acquisition strategy similar to SoftBank, aiming to control transaction infrastructure by integrating XRP and its stablecoin, RLUSD. The notable acquisition of Hidden Road will enable Ripple to enhance its prime brokerage offerings and migrate operations to the XRP Ledger, benefiting 300 institutional clients who clear $3 trillion annually. This strategy mirrors SoftBank's model of aggressive investments rather than in-house development. Ripple seeks to build a comprehensive financial services ecosystem, acquiring firms like custody provider Metaco and Hidden Road, thus embedding its assets into traditional finance. Despite the similarities, some experts caution that Ripple's focused approach on payments contrasts with SoftBank's broader conglomerate model. Ripple's CEO, Brad Garlinghouse, indicates that future acquisitions, potentially including stablecoin rivals, are on the horizon as the regulatory landscape improves after a recent settlement with the SEC.

Source 🔗