Crypto users are buzzing with speculation that Ripple’s infrastructure could quietly make its way into the mainstream.
The speculation comes after American Express (Amex) recently informed clients of cross-border payments and wire transfer delays amid systemic upgrades.
System Upgrade or Strategic Pivot? Amex Sparks Ripple Integration Buzz
American Express notified clients of delays in cross-border payments and wire transfers. The American bank holding company and multinational financial services corporation cited a ‘Federal Reserve System update’ and a ‘wide system upgrade’.
While the company offered no further technical details, the notice has ignited Ripple-related theories. These speculations stem from Amex’s long-standing partnership with the blockchain firm.
Several other popular accounts in the crypto community, including Versan of Black Swan Capitalist, echoed the sentiment, citing the modernization of payment infrastructure.
Though Amex has not mentioned Ripple directly in its system update, blockchain advocates believe the timing is noteworthy.
American Express has previously partnered with RippleNet for cross-border payment solutions, especially in corridors like the US–UK. That history has raised eyebrows with current payment disruptions and a major product overhaul.
In a separate announcement on June 16, American Express declared it was launching the “largest investment ever in a Card refresh.”
“More than forty years ago, we introduced the Platinum Card…. We’re going to take these Cards to a new level… to meet the evolving needs of our customers…Major updates are coming to its US Consumer and Business Platinum Cards® later this year,” the company said.
On the business side, Platinum Card users will gain more flexible spending tools and rewards tailored for corporate needs.
Meanwhile, American Express’s Card refresh announcement came only days after partnering with the Coinbase exchange to launch the Coinbase One Card.
It offers up to 4% Bitcoin back on all purchases, with cardholders accessing exclusive Amex experiences and offers.
This marked Coinbase’s first credit card launch, although it previously introduced a prepaid debit card in partnership with Visa.
The alignment of a broad digital overhaul, payment delays tied to the Federal Reserve, and Amex’s prior work with Ripple has fueled speculation that XRP’s blockchain technology could be part of the modernization roadmap.
“We see real potential in the combination of crypto with the powerful backing of American Express…an excellent mix of what customers are looking for right now,” Will Stredwick of American Express Global Network Services said at the Coinbase State of Crypto Summit in New York City.
There is no official confirmation linking Ripple to the current infrastructure upgrade. Notwithstanding, it may be worth monitoring as further updates are expected this fall.
Until then, the market will wonder whether Ripple is about to make a comeback through America’s most prestigious credit card issuer.
Ripple (XRP) Price Performance. Source: BeInCrypto
Amid the speculation, Ripple’s powering token has only been up a modest 2% in the last 24 hours. As of this writing, XRP was trading for $2.22.
