Ripple plans US comeback after SEC case ends

Ripple CEO says U.S. growth is back on track after winning SEC case, with plans to work with banks and expand crypto payments under Trump-era policies.

Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse has shared that 95% of Ripple’s customers are based outside the US, but the company remains focused on expanding its presence in the American market. This renewed push follows a major legal win: the SEC dropped its lawsuit against Ripple, marking a significant milestone for both the company and the wider crypto industry.

The SEC first sued Ripple in December 2020, claiming its XRP token was an unregistered security. That case now appears closed. The SEC has returned the $75 million fine and withdrawn its appeal. Ripple is now allowed to sell XRP to institutional investors without restrictions. “This is the moment we’ve been waiting for,” Garlinghouse said, celebrating the outcome.

Despite legal challenges in the U.S., Ripple has continued its operations in payments and securities. Garlinghouse says the U.S. remains a key market. With the legal cloud lifted, Ripple is aiming to grow its American client base and reduce reliance on international customers.

Ripple’s expansion aligns with a more crypto-friendly political climate. Under President Donald Trump’s second term, policies supporting digital assets are gaining ground. Trump recently created a Crypto Advisory Council, and Garlinghouse is reportedly in discussions to join. This adds to the momentum behind Ripple’s U.S. ambitions.

Another boost comes from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), which now allows U.S. banks and savings associations to offer crypto and stablecoin custody services without prior approval. This change follows past backlash over Operation Choke Point 2.0, which was seen as overly aggressive against crypto companies.

With new regulatory guidance, U.S. banks are becoming more open to blockchain-based financial tools. Ripple now has the chance to work with banks on cross-border payments using XRP, as well as digital asset custody services. This opens the door to fresh partnerships and growth.

Still, Ripple faces stiff competition. Dominant stablecoins like USDT and USDC continue to control most of the crypto payments market. Ripple must also deal with lingering uncertainty in U.S. crypto regulations, even if the SEC has stepped back.

Overall, the end of the lawsuit gives Ripple room to grow and refocus its energy on U.S. expansion. With changing laws, friendlier leadership in Washington, and ongoing banking reforms, the environment is shifting in Ripple’s favor. Garlinghouse’s optimism reflects this opportunity, though the road ahead still requires navigating competitive and legal hurdles.

Ripple is banking on its technology, partnerships, and reputation to stand out in a crowded field. The U.S. push is a key part of its strategy, especially now that the SEC is no longer blocking its path.