XRP Holds a Hidden Edge: U.S. Roots and Regulatory Timing

While crypto purists scream ’decentralize or die,’ XRP’s American foundation might be its golden ticket. Built in the U.S. just as regulators sharpen their knives, Ripple’s darling could dodge the bloodbath facing offshore rivals.

Wall Street’s latest irony? The ’compliance coin’ might win by playing the game—while Bitcoin maxis rage against the machine. (Bonus jab: Meanwhile, your traditional broker still thinks ’blockchain’ is a new type of ski binding.)

XRP has been in the crypto world for over a decade, and despite many challenges, it’s still standing. Recently, Dan Tapiero—founder of 10T Holdings and a long-time investor—shared his thoughts on XRP, praising its ability to survive in a tough and fast-changing industry.

In an interview with CoinDesk, he said that, “One very impressive thing about XRP is just how long it’s lasted, how many times it’s come under attack. It’s the Lindy effect—the longer it exists, the stronger it becomes.”

A History of Scrutiny and Survival

XRP’s journey has been anything but smooth. Its parent company, Ripple Labs, has faced fierce criticism and legal challenges—including a high-profile lawsuit from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) that resulted in XRP being delisted from several major U.S. exchanges. For a time, it looked like XRP might fade into obscurity.

But the token didn’t disappear. It bounced back.

Despite detractors—particularly among Bitcoin maximalists and Ethereum loyalists—XRP has retained a passionate community and continued use cases. 

ETFs and the American Edge

Recent chatter around ProShares launching XRP ETFs has sparked fresh interest, though it’s met with mixed reactions in the crypto community. Tapiero points out that while Bitcoin and Ethereum dominate headlines, XRP is carving out a unique identity—and doing so from U.S. soil. “It’s made in America. And with this administration, that matters,” he said.

A Personal Connection

Tapiero’s connection to XRP runs deep. His first crypto trades were in Bitcoin and XRP, executed via a platform then called BitReserve—now known as Uphold. His gold firm, Gold Bullion International (GBI), was the first to let users trade gold for XRP and Bitcoin.

Back then, XRP traded at a tenth of a cent. Today, it fluctuates around $2.00 depending on market cycles. Looking back, Tapiero admits he didn’t fully understand XRP at the time and didn’t hold onto it long-term. But his takeaway is one many in the space can relate to:

“Just because you didn’t buy it at a tenth of a cent doesn’t mean you couldn’t buy it at one cent, or ten cents. If you believe in something, never give up on it.”