During an interview at Consensus Miami 2026, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse expressed his views on cryptocurrency maximalism, stating he has never identified as an $XRP maximalist and is rooting for the success of Bitcoin. Garlinghouse’s comments come amidst the development of Evernorth, a new Ripple-backed company that recently appointed Ripple’s Chief Legal Officer to its board and announced plans to go public on Nasdaq.
Garlinghouse distinguished between the perspectives of $XRP maximalists—who view $XRP as the only significant cryptocurrency—and his broader outlook that embraces a multi-chain future. He reflected on the detrimental effects of “crypto tribalism,” noting that it ultimately harms the industry as a whole. In a prior statement made in January 2025, he articulated that maximalism is a hindrance to progress in the crypto space and emphasized his personal portfolio, which includes $XRP, Bitcoin, and Ethereum, citing a preference for a competitive landscape.
Additionally, Garlinghouse reaffirmed that $XRP remains Ripple’s primary focus, describing it as the company’s “North Star.” His vision includes enhancing the token’s utility for users through strategic acquisitions and innovations.
In related news, a Ripple-conducted survey revealed that a majority of finance leaders recognize the necessity of incorporating digital asset solutions to maintain competitiveness. Out of over 1,000 respondents, 72% noted that companies must adapt to offer these solutions. The survey highlighted a strong inclination toward stablecoins, with 74% viewing them as essential tools for financial management. Security was also a top priority, with 97% emphasizing its importance.
Garlinghouse addressed concerns regarding the use of artificial intelligence within Ripple, clarifying that the company is leveraging AI to foster growth rather than reduce its workforce. He stated that AI tools now assist in writing or developing 75% of Ripple’s code, allowing the company to focus on expanding its product offerings and reaching new users.
In contrast, several other companies in the tech sector have resorted to layoffs amid shifts towards AI. Garlinghouse suggested that those companies might be using AI as a rationale for deeper organizational issues.
Looking ahead, Garlinghouse highlighted the significance of the upcoming weeks in relation to the CLARITY Act, which aims to define the regulatory landscape for cryptocurrency. He pointed out that the bill, having passed the House, faces delays predominantly due to disputes between banks and crypto firms regarding stablecoins. The act would clarify which tokens fall under the purview of the SEC versus the CFTC, thus simplifying regulatory compliance for companies like Ripple.
Finally, the establishment of Evernorth as the world’s largest $XRP treasury company is noteworthy, especially given its substantial holdings of over 473 million $XRP, supported by Ripple and SBI Holdings. With the appointment of Ripple’s legal expert to its board, the close ties between the two entities could signal a new phase in their collaboration, much like the model that allows investors to engage with Bitcoin growth without directly purchasing the cryptocurrency. Evernorth’s plans for a NASDAQ listing, pending SEC approval, could further integrate $XRP within mainstream financial frameworks.
