Ripple CEO Sparks Buzz with IMF Question About Holding XRP—Analysts Hint at “Grand Plan” Unfolding

Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse has stirred excitement in the XRP community after directly asking a top legal officer at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) whether the institution plans to hold XRP.

The question came during the Singapore Fintech Festival, where Garlinghouse engaged with Ross Leckow, Deputy General Counsel in the IMF’s Legal Department. His query caught Leckow off guard, prompting a reaction that some analysts believe hints at significant developments behind the scenes.


According to crypto analyst Xaif, who shared the exchange on X (formerly Twitter), Leckow avoided giving a detailed answer but noted that the IMF’s current legal framework doesn’t allow it to hold crypto unless at least one country officially adopts a digital asset as currency. Garlinghouse, noting Leckow’s reaction, joked that he seemed “speechless” in response.


IMF’s Stance: Legal First, Then Adoption

The IMF's position is rooted in policy: it cannot hold crypto assets unless a sovereign state formally recognizes one as legal tender. So far, no major economy has done so—but momentum is building. A few countries are experimenting with blockchain technology in their financial systems, and notably, the U.S. has initiated a strategic Bitcoin reserve, which could signal a path toward broader digital currency adoption.

While the IMF has been cautious about crypto, it has acknowledged the potential benefits of blockchain infrastructure—provided risks are managed. At a 2023 joint conference with South Korea’s government and central bank, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva warned against the pitfalls of unregulated crypto use. She emphasized the need for clear rules and better infrastructure to harness blockchain’s upside without compromising financial stability.


Garlinghouse Makes the Case for XRP

Garlinghouse has long advocated for XRP’s utility, especially in areas where traditional banking systems fall short. Speaking at a previous event that included IMF and Swiss National Bank representatives, he pointed out Bitcoin’s limitations—slow transactions and poor scalability—and framed XRP as a solution designed to address those flaws.

He emphasized XRP’s ability to democratize access to liquidity and improve global financial inclusion. With the upcoming XRPL Apex 2025 event, Garlinghouse is expected to unveil more updates on XRP’s development and roadmap.


Market Reaction: XRP Moves as Investors Speculate

Following the IMF exchange, XRP investors responded with cautious optimism. The asset saw a 1.8% price increase within 24 hours, climbing to $2.10 and pushing its market cap to $124 billion.


Analysts suggest that if market momentum returns, XRP could rally toward $6 in the short term.

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