Analyst's Theory on Solana and Western Union
Analyst Stern Drew has proposed a new theory suggesting that Solana’s potential involvement with Western Union may have been facilitated by the groundwork previously laid by Ripple. Drew posits that Solana might be acting as a less risky, public-facing bridge, entering the space first while Ripple navigates regulatory complexities. He speculates that XRP could eventually serve as the primary settlement layer, though these assertions are currently unproven.
A recent theory from crypto analyst Stern Drew is generating discussion within the digital asset community. In a detailed analysis, Drew suggests that Solana’s recently discussed engagement with Western Union may not be entirely independent. Instead, he claims the pathway for such an integration may have been established years earlier by Ripple through its extensive regulatory and technical work with the global remittance company. Drew argues that prior to Solana’s existence, Ripple had already developed the essential infrastructure required for a blockchain to integrate with a large, compliance-focused entity like Western Union.
Ripple’s Early Work Paved the Way
According to Drew, Ripple's partnership with Western Union laid significant groundwork long before Solana gained prominence. Ripple reportedly conducted tests on cross-border payment corridors, managed compliance and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) frameworks, established FX rails, and integrated messaging systems with Western Union during earlier pilot programs. Drew characterizes this as Ripple "building the pipes," establishing non-disclosure agreements, opening gateways, and mapping out the technical and regulatory architecture necessary for any blockchain to operate within Western Union's ecosystem. He contends that this means any subsequent blockchain entering the same domain is following a path that Ripple helped to create.
What If Solana’s Western Union Deal Only Exists Because Ripple Opened That Door For Them?
Let’s lay the pieces out:
1) The Door Was Never Solana’s To Open.
Years before Solana existed, Ripple sat partnered Western Union, testing corridors, compliance flows, FX rails, AML…
Strategic Advantage for Ripple
The analyst proposes a strategic perspective: Ripple may have intentionally allowed, or even preferred, Solana to approach Western Union first. With Ripple still navigating the aftermath of significant regulatory challenges in the U.S., allowing another blockchain to test the waters could mitigate risk. Drew suggests that Solana is now serving as the "public-facing bridge," absorbing potential scrutiny as the first blockchain to be reintroduced to major U.S. financial institutions. If Solana achieves success without encountering regulatory obstacles, Ripple could then re-enter the landscape with considerably less friction. The underlying concept is that Solana opens the door, and Ripple subsequently scales the solution.
Solana in the Spotlight, Ripple as the Backbone
Drew observes that Solana, with its speed, venture capital backing, and marketing prowess, presents a strong external image of innovation. However, he asserts that when it comes to regulatory-grade infrastructure, compliance, banking integration, and institutional routing, "this is Ripple’s bloodstream." Given Western Union's status as a highly regulated money transmitter, Drew argues that advanced technology alone is insufficient. The company requires trust, comprehensive documentation, and long-term compliance assurances—areas where Ripple possesses substantial historical depth. This leads to a critical question posed by Drew: who possesses the credibility to vouch for Solana behind closed doors? His assessment is that only Ripple fits this profile.
Potential for XRP as the Settlement Layer
Drew concludes his analysis by suggesting that while Solana may currently be receiving significant attention, XRP could ultimately emerge as the long-term settlement layer. In his view, Ripple's established regulatory groundwork and institutional architecture position the XRP Ledger as the system capable of underpinning global money movement once broader regulatory approval is secured. Drew writes, "Solana may look like the one who got the call. But Ripple is the one holding the phone."
The discussion continues within the crypto community, but Drew's analysis highlights an ongoing conversation about the formation of institutional relationships and the potential behind-the-scenes influence of certain blockchain companies in shaping future pathways. It is important to note, however, that the claims made by Stern Drew represent his personal interpretation and speculation based on publicly available information regarding industry relationships. There is no confirmed evidence that Ripple facilitated or influenced Solana’s engagement with Western Union, nor is there any indication of such strategic coordination taking place.