Ripple’s $150 million spending for the last ‘no’

As a seasoned crypto investor with over two decades of experience navigating the digital asset landscape, I must say that the recent 60 Minutes episode on Ripple was both intriguing and disheartening.

In my current exploration of the intricacies of blockchain technology, I found myself captivated by a high-profile dispute that has been making waves: Ripple’s legal tussle with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). This significant conflict was brought to the forefront in a recent episode of 60 Minutes on CBS News.

During the segment, Ripple’s legal hurdles and the expanding political impact of the cryptocurrency sector were touched upon. However, Brad Garlinghouse, the CEO, along with other community members, voiced their dissatisfaction regarding how the narrative was portrayed.

Following the broadcast of the episode, I took to social media to voice my concerns. I underscored that the interview, which extended beyond 90 minutes, overlooked a substantial legal milestone: a federal judge declared in July that XRP (XRP) was not classified as a security when traded on public exchanges.

As an analyst, I’ve just witnessed the introduction of crypto on 60 Minutes, a clear indication that these technologies are steadily moving towards mainstream acceptance. Their impact and outreach can only escalate from here. Here are a few points I’d like to highlight after watching:

— Brad Garlinghouse (@bgarlinghouse) December 9, 2024

As a researcher, I found myself grappling with a decision that seemed to contradict the assertions made within the segment, notably those put forth by John Reed Stark, a past leader in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s enforcement division, who firmly advocated for XRP to be classified as a security.

Garlinghouse alleges that the program failed to include crucial details, which might have offered a more nuanced perspective on Ripple’s legal situation.

As a researcher delving into this field, I too have voiced my disagreement with Stark’s sweeping rejection of cryptocurrencies’ potential usefulness. I drew a parallel between his stance and the early skepticism towards the internet. However, it’s important to highlight that companies like Ripple are currently executing billions of dollars worth of cross-border transactions for institutional clients, employing XRP in the process. Notably, all these transactions adhere to know-your-customer regulations, ensuring compliance with legal frameworks.

In simpler terms, the leader of Ripple emphasized that practical uses of blockchain tech were demonstrated during the episode, but this aspect was mostly neglected.

Supporters of cryptocurrency agreed with Garlinghouse’s views. Entrepreneur Monika Baechler-Dombay raised doubts about the motivations behind 60 Minutes’ editorial decisions, implying that leaving out positive aspects about Ripple and XRP might have been done to reinforce a biased storyline.

Of course, THEY conveniently leave out the information which doesn’t serve them

— Monika Baechler-Dombay (@monikabaechler) December 9, 2024

As a crypto investor myself, I can’t help but emphasize the importance of focusing on the undisputed July ruling that classified XRP as a non-security. This significant decision has yet to be contested and deserves more attention in our discussions.

Jon, a supporter of cryptocurrency, expressed firm criticism towards the 60 Minutes show after their recent segment, claiming that they distorted the truth about the crypto industry and unjustifiably attacked Ripple’s CEO.

I’ve got a different take on that: In my opinion, for 60 minutes to suggest that Brad was involved in wrongdoings related to crypto is completely unfounded. He gave it his all and we stand behind him with immense pride. It appears that 60 minutes has been attempting to insinuate that the crypto world somehow manipulated the election, intimidates congress members who don’t align with their views, and facilitates sex trafficking. I find such allegations appalling and devoid of any moral compass. Lastly…

— Jen (@sotheresthat12) December 9, 2024

He criticized the show for implying that crypto manipulated elections, coerced lawmakers, and facilitated illicit activities like human trafficking. 

Although it had its flaws, the 60 Minutes broadcast brought to light the extensive involvement of the cryptocurrency sector in American politics and culture. Notably, companies like Ripple, as well as others in the crypto industry, have significantly impacted crucial elections and policy-making decisions.

The bipartisan FIT21 bill, which seeks to establish a clearer regulatory framework for crypto, is a step toward addressing the regulatory uncertainties faced by companies like Ripple.  

From my analysis, it’s clear that the episode underscored a stark contrast in views concerning cryptocurrencies. I, for one, find myself viewing cryptocurrencies as a highly speculative investment carrying substantial risks. This perspective was underscored by Stark, who emphasized its potential misuse in illegal activities.

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2024-12-09 13:14