Ripple has unveiled a digital asset spot prime brokerage platform specifically targeting institutional clients within the United States. This new service is designed to facilitate over-the-counter (OTC) trading for XRP, the RLUSD stablecoin, and a wide array of other major cryptocurrencies.
Strategic Expansion into U.S. Market
The launch of this platform marks a significant U.S. expansion for Ripple Prime. This move follows Ripple's substantial $1.25 billion acquisition of Hidden Road, a multi-asset broker. The acquisition, initially announced in April, was finalized last month, integrating licenses and infrastructure to create a unified operational entity.
Comprehensive Prime Brokerage Services
Ripple Prime now provides a consolidated suite of services for digital assets, foreign exchange, derivatives, and fixed income. Michael Higgins, International CEO of Ripple Prime, highlighted that the platform's OTC spot execution capabilities are a valuable addition that complements its existing derivatives services.
Bridging Traditional Finance and Crypto
U.S. institutional clients utilizing Ripple Prime will have the capability to cross-margin their OTC spot transactions alongside their broader blockchain asset portfolios. This includes integration with CME futures and options, effectively creating a single operational framework that bridges traditional finance and crypto markets.
Aggressive Growth and Acquisitions
Ripple has demonstrated a pattern of aggressive expansion throughout 2025. Earlier in the year, the company acquired GTreasury for $1 billion. CEO Brad Garlinghouse described this acquisition as a pivotal moment for corporate treasury management, providing Ripple with access to enterprise clients who can leverage its blockchain-based payment and liquidity infrastructure.
Additionally, the company secured $1 billion in funding to bolster its XRP treasury reserves. This capital infusion is intended to support ecosystem liquidity and enhance on-chain payment capacity.
Optimism on Regulatory Landscape
Brad Garlinghouse has expressed optimism regarding the improving U.S. regulatory environment under the current administration. Policymakers have been active, with a stablecoin bill passed during President Trump's first year in office, and ongoing efforts to develop comprehensive crypto market structure legislation.
Market Position and Future Outlook
The introduction of this prime brokerage platform strategically positions Ripple to meet the growing institutional demand for digital asset trading and custody services. This comes at a time when the market is experiencing increasing regulatory clarity, creating a more favorable environment for such offerings.