XRP vs Bitcoin: A Growing Rift

The crypto world is abuzz as Ripple finds itself at the center of intense criticism, particularly from Bitcoin maximalists, following rumors of a potential US XRP Reserve. With President Donald Trump’s administration hinting at a move toward a broader national crypto reserve, XRP has become a focal point in the evolving strategic reserve debate.

Bitcoin Magazine and other Bitcoin advocates have labeled this development as a potential threat. The magazine urged followers to reject XRP, emphasizing, “Bitcoin only” for America’s balance sheet. Critics like Exodus co-founder JP Richardson and Riot Platforms VP Pierre Rochard argue that Ripple is aggressively lobbying at Bitcoin’s expense, with Rochard going as far as accusing Ripple of targeting Bitcoin mining in past political agendas.

FOX journalist Eleanor Terrett described this escalating conflict as “open warfare” between crypto communities, signaling a major divide in an industry that once united against the US SEC.

Ripple Responds to Criticism

Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse has pushed back against accusations of undermining Bitcoin, asserting that the company’s lobbying efforts are aimed at fostering innovation and inclusivity within a national strategic reserve. He noted that Ripple’s vision for a balanced reserve includes Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, aiming to strengthen the US’s leadership in the crypto market.

Supporting Ripple’s stance, Flare co-founder Hugo Philion highlighted 2025 as a pivotal year for XRP, citing the ecosystem’s growing role. Pro-XRP lawyer Bill Morgan also expressed optimism, praising CoinShares’ recent XRP ETF filing as a sign of increasing institutional interest.

XRP’s Market Outlook

Amid the broader market downturn, XRP’s price fell 2.5% to $3.10, with trading volume dropping 42% to $5.1 billion. However, analysts suggest that XRP may still be poised for significant growth.

Reports predict that Ripple’s native cryptocurrency could rally to $15, particularly if the long-running XRP lawsuit reaches a favorable conclusion. Additionally, President Trump’s crypto-friendly policies and XRP ETF filings hint at growing institutional confidence.

While criticism persists, the speculation around a US XRP Reserve and Ripple’s role in the broader crypto market could position XRP as a key player in the coming years.

What’s Next for XRP?

As Ripple and Bitcoin advocates clash, the crypto market stands at a crossroads. Will Ripple’s efforts foster innovation and inclusivity, or will Bitcoin maximalists’ criticism hinder XRP’s growth? The unfolding narrative underscores the complexities of crypto regulation and the race to define the US’s digital asset strategy.