Ripple CEO Hails XRP Ledger 2.5.0 as the Game-Changing Upgrade Crypto Has Been Waiting For

Ripple's latest upgrade isn't just another patch—it's a full-throttle evolution. The XRP Ledger 2.5.0 release packs more firepower than any previous update, according to CEO Brad Garlinghouse. Here's why the crypto world is buzzing.

Speed Meets Scalability

No more bottlenecks. The upgraded ledger slashes settlement times while handling transaction volumes that'd make legacy finance systems choke. Take that, SWIFT.

Developer Goldmine

New smart contract capabilities and API enhancements give builders the tools to create without constraints. DeFi protocols are already scrambling to integrate.

The Institutional Nod

With enhanced compliance features, even the most regulation-obsessed TradFi dinosaurs might finally stop pretending blockchain doesn't exist.

As the update rolls out globally, one thing's clear: Ripple just forced every competing layer-1 to play catch-up. Again. (Meanwhile, Bitcoin maxis are still waiting for their 'store of value' to actually do something useful.)

TLDR

• RippleX has released version 2.5.0 of rippled, bringing major improvements to the XRP Ledger.
• Ripple CEO praised the upgrade as a significant advancement for the global XRP ecosystem.
• TokenEscrow now supports IOUs and tokenized assets, enabling conditional and delayed payments.
• The new Batch feature allows multiple operations to be processed atomically in one transaction.
• PermissionedDEX introduces access-controlled decentralized exchange functionality for regulated use cases.

RippleX has officially released version 2.5.0 of rippled, marking a strategic shift in XRP Ledger development. This update introduces advanced features aimed at increasing performance, functionality, and regulatory adaptability. Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse emphasized the significance of this release, highlighting its value for the growing global XRP ecosystem.

The release brings several new amendments, requiring validator consensus before activation on the mainnet. Network operators are urged to upgrade immediately to maintain system compatibility and seamless integration. Garlinghouse noted the role of developer input and validator alignment in achieving this milestone.

Version 2.5.0 includes transformative capabilities that expand the utility of the XRP Ledger across financial and enterprise applications. These changes aim to support both traditional use cases and emerging decentralized frameworks. Ripple CEO stressed the importance of innovation and compliance in blockchain development.

Huge progress — kudos to you Mayukha and all the devs who contributed to this release!

— Brad Garlinghouse (@bgarlinghouse) June 25, 2025

Ripple CEO Highlights TokenEscrow and Batch

TokenEscrow extends the native escrow mechanism beyond XRP to cover IOUs and other issued assets. This change allows developers to create conditional payments using various token types. Ripple’s CEO pointed to TokenEscrow as a key tool for future finance applications.

With TokenEscrow, smart contracts gain flexibility for designing multi-step settlement systems and deferred payment schemes. Its support for complex token use cases may attract more institutional use. Ripple CEO noted that asset handling through escrow is becoming critical for regulated environments.

Another major amendment, batch, enables the atomic execution of multiple transactions within a single operation. This reduces complexity in dApp workflows and smart contract structures. Ripple CEO emphasized that such features support a more efficient and scalable ledger ecosystem.

PermissionedDEX and PermissionDelegation Enhance Compliance Tools

PermissionedDEX introduces access controls for decentralized exchanges built on the XRP Ledger. It enables whitelisting, allowing project teams to meet jurisdictional or institutional requirements. Ripple CEO acknowledged the relevance of this feature for enterprise and financial compliance.

The PermissionedDEX amendment blends decentralization with the ability to enforce specific participation policies. This supports integration into regulated financial systems without undermining openness. Ripple CEO stated that access control could drive adoption in high-compliance sectors.

Permission delegation permits users to securely and efficiently assign account-level permissions to third parties. This feature supports scenarios like delegated wallet access or automated payment systems. Ripple CEO confirmed its importance in making the XRP Ledger more adaptable for institutional use.

Backend Enhancements and Developer Experience Upgrades

RippleX modernized the build environment by removing outdated compilers and updating system dependencies. This improved compatibility with current development tools and platforms, and the Ripple CEO praised these changes as necessary steps for developer engagement.

Other updates include optimized validator communication, faster transaction processing, and improved RPC behavior. These backend improvements strengthen performance and increase network efficiency. Ripple CEO concluded that this release sets a new standard for Core ledger upgrades.