What Is Ripple and Why Is Everyone Talking About It?
Ripple is much more than just a cryptocurrency. It’s a payment platform designed to move money as fast as data. Created in 2012 by Chris Larsen and Jed McCaleb, Ripple Labs developed an open-source protocol that enables fast, secure, and low-cost transactions.
Companies like Santander, American Express, and BBVA are already using Ripple as infrastructure for their international payments. The key? XRP, its native cryptocurrency, acts as a bridge currency, enabling exchanges between different fiat currencies in seconds.
Who Invented Ripple? A Journey from Vancouver to Silicon Valley
It all started in Vancouver with Ryan Fugger, who created RipplePay in 2004. Years later, Jed McCaleb and Chris Larsen revived that vision to found OpenCoin (later Ripple Labs) and launch a payment network validated by consensus—not by mining, like Bitcoin.
Ripple evolved quickly. In 2015, they became Ripple Labs Inc., backed by venture capital firms like Andreessen Horowitz. And in 2016, Ripple became one of the first companies to obtain a BitLicense in New York.
Why Is Ripple Different from Cryptocurrencies Like Bitcoin or Ethereum?
One of the most common questions is: “How is Ripple different from Bitcoin?” Here are some key differences:
- Fast validation: Ripple doesn’t rely on mining. It uses consensus between nodes, which reduces transaction time to just 3–5 seconds.
- Almost zero cost: While a Bitcoin transaction can cost several dollars, Ripple transactions cost just a fraction of a cent.
- Bank and institution-focused: It’s not a network for anonymous users but rather a solution for real problems in the international banking system.
- Superior scalability: Ripple supports up to 1,500 transactions per second (TPS), compared to Bitcoin’s 7 and Ethereum’s current 30.
Where Can I Buy Ripple (XRP)? Safe and Accessible Options
You can buy XRP on major cryptocurrency exchanges like:
- Binance
- Kraken
- Bitstamp
- Coinbase
All you need to do is register, verify your identity, and make a purchase using a credit card, bank transfer, or other cryptocurrencies. For secure storage, wallets like Ledger Nano S, Trezor, or apps like Trust Wallet are recommended.
Ripple and the Future of Finance: Beyond Payments
Ripple is no longer limited to payments. It is now working on cutting-edge solutions like:
- Asset tokenization: Representing physical assets (like real estate or stocks) on blockchain.
- Digital custody: Helping banks integrate crypto assets into their systems.
- CBDCs (Central Bank Digital Currencies): Collaborating with governments to digitize national currencies.
- The ultimate goal: To connect traditional finance with blockchain technology.
Conclusion
Ripple is far more than just an altcoin. It’s a solid infrastructure that is helping to redefine the global financial system. If you’re looking for a tech-driven alternative with real-world purpose, don’t take your eyes off this network and its token, XRP.