**Signal:** Ripple has acquired prime brokerage firm Hidden Road for a massive $1.25 billion.
**Key Points:**
* **Strategic Acquisition:** Ripple aims to strengthen its infrastructure to attract larger institutional clients. * **Deal Structure:** Primarily cash-based, with some XRP and Ripple stock involved. * **Leadership Continuity:** Hidden Road's founder, Marc Asch, will continue to lead the brokerage.
**Industry Impact:** This major acquisition highlights continued institutional interest and investment in the crypto space.
