Trump’s Crypto Reserve Sparks Debate: XRP or Just Bitcoin?

Brad Garlinghouse confirmed working towards a strategic reserve including BTC and altcoins.
Messari founder Ryan Selkis said that the reserve should only hold BTC and not XRP.
Cardano’s Hoskinson chimed in, asking Selkis to not “base XRP.”

The crypto community is locked in a heated debate over the potential inclusion of XRP in the United States’ proposed digital asset reserve. Valued at $181 billion, XRP is currently the third-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization. The discussion started after President Donald Trump’s executive order calling for the creation of a national digital asset stockpile.

Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse responded to criticism from Riot Platforms VP Pierre Rochard, who accused him of lobbying against a Bitcoin-only strategic reserve. Garlinghouse defended Ripple’s push to include XRP, stating it makes sense to prioritize U.S.-created cryptocurrencies like XRP alongside Bitcoin (BTC).

America-First is not "American-Shitcoin First"

We'd be better off having no strategic reserve than one with a "endorsed" pieces of shit like XRP.

Still, I think Bitcoin is an exception.

1. Build different (with energy)
2. Lindy, mcap dominance, no insiders
3. Global traction https://t.co/eCNhKjpgSL

— Ryan Selkis (d/acc) 🇺🇸 (@twobitidiot) January 23, 2025

Messari Founder Opposes XRP in Strategic Reserve

Ryan Selkis, founder of Messari, strongly disagreed with XRP’s potential inclusion. Selkis argued that Bitcoin should remain the sole cryptocurrency in the reserve due to its decentralized structure and global adoption. He dismissed XRP as “an endorsed piece of junk,” emphasizing that only Bitcoin meets the criteria for a credible strategic asset.

Rumors suggest Trump’s administration is considering U.S.-developed cryptocurrencies such as Cardano (ADA), Hedera (HBAR), and XRP for the reserve. Supporters believe this approach could strengthen domestic innovation in the digital asset space.

Charles Hoskinson Weighs In

Cardano creator Charles Hoskinson joined the debate, expressing skepticism about XRP’s inclusion. Hoskinson stated that the reserve will likely begin with Bitcoin alone and expand over time if needed. His remarks reflect a broader divide within the crypto sector regarding the strategic reserve’s composition.

Interestingly, discussions of a potential partnership between Ripple and Cardano had been doing the rounds, adding intrigue to the debate. Both platforms have hinted at possible collaboration in recent months, though no formal agreement has been announced.

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