XRP, the cryptocurrency developed by Ripple, has been gaining significant traction in the crypto market. Its value surged from $0.52 in November 2024 to $2.46 in early January 2025, before surpassing the $3 mark for the first time since 2018 in late January (Coinpedia, 2025). Known for its speed, efficiency, and growing adoption, XRP has positioned itself as a key player in the blockchain space. 

Let’s explore why XRP is gaining momentum and how you can capitalize on this growth. 

A Brief History of XRP

Launched in 2012 by developers David Schwartz, Jed McCaleb, and Arthur Britto, XRP was designed as a faster, more efficient alternative to Bitcoin. In the same year, Ripple Labs (formerly OpenCoin) was founded to develop the Ripple payment protocol, aiming to streamline cross-border payments and revolutionize traditional banking systems. Ripple Labs introduced XRP as the native digital asset for the Ripple network, facilitating instantaneous and cost-effective transactions. 

Over the years, Ripple has forged partnerships with several major financial institutions, helping to solidify XRP’s role in global payments and to expand its global use cases, despite ongoing regulatory challenges.

What’s Fueling XRP’s Popularity? 

Let’s explore six key factors that have emerged as the most influential in driving XRP’s rise, each playing a critical role in its growing popularity and relevance.

1. High Transaction Speed 

XRP leads the pack in transaction speed. The Ripple network can process up to 1,500 transactions per second, and transactions are completed in just 3-5 seconds. In comparison, Bitcoin transactions take about 10 minutes, while Ethereum transactions typically take 10-20 seconds, with delays during periods of high demand. XRP’s lightning-fast transactions make it a preferred choice for users seeking quick, seamless transfers.

• Bitcoin: Transactions typically take about 10 minutes, with delays during network congestion.

• Ethereum: Transactions average 10-20 seconds but can take longer during high demand.

• XRP: Lightning-fast at 3-5 seconds per transaction.

2. Lower Fee 

Another standout feature of XRP is its minimal transaction fees, which are remarkably low compared to Bitcoin and Ethereum. Using XRP for cross-border transactions eliminates the need for a third-party intermediary (such as a bank), resulting in fees far less than $0.01. Users in different countries can transact while avoiding the currency conversion fees often charged by banks. If using traditional methods, these fees can reach as high as $50 in some cases.

The cost efficiency of XRP makes it attractive for both retail users and financial institutions, particularly for frequent transactions.

• XRP: $0.0002 to $0.0005 per transaction.

• Bitcoin: $1 to $20, depending on network conditions.

• Ethereum: $0.50 to $50, with significant spikes during high activity.

3. Cross-border payments adoption and Global Banks Utilizing XRP

XRP has been widely adopted by financial institutions to streamline cross-border payments. Ripple’s RippleNet platform allows banks and payment providers to process transactions quickly and cost-effectively.

By 2017, over 100 financial institutions, including major players like Santander (USA), CIBC (Canada), Itaú Unibanco (Brazil), SBI Remit (Japan), and IndusInd Bank (India) had joined RippleNet, showcasing XRP’s growing influence in international remittances and global finance and making it an attractive option for long-term investors.

4. Exciting Developments: XRP Stablecoin and ETF

Ripple’s innovation extends beyond cross-border payments. Two major developments are worth noting:

• XRP-backed Stablecoin (RLUSD): Ripple’s upcoming stablecoin aims to combine the price stability of fiat currencies with XRP’s efficiency. This could open up new use cases for both institutions and everyday users.

• Spot XRP ETF Applications: Applications by firms like Bitwise and Canary Capital to the SEC for XRP ETFs signal increased interest from institutional investors. If approved, these ETFs could drive further adoption and price appreciation.

5. Eco-friendly:

For environmentally-conscious investors, XRP is a more eco-friendly alternative. Unlike Bitcoin’s Proof-of-Work system, which requires massive computational power (and therefore massive energy) to mine, XRP is energy-efficient because its unique consensus protocol relies on a network of trusted validators rather than on mining, which keeps transactions secure while using minimal electricity.

Ripple, the company behind XRP, is also working toward carbon neutrality by 2030—making it a greener choice in the crypto space.

6. SEC v.s. Ripple: Regulatory Progress and Resilience

XRP has faced legal battles since 2020, when the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) sued Ripple, claiming XRP was sold as an unregistered security. Although a federal court ruled that retail sales of XRP were not securities, the SEC has continued to challenge parts of the case.

Despite challenges, Ripple has strengthened its global credibility by proactively complying with Know Your Customer (KYC), Anti-Money Laundering (AML), and other regulatory standards. While its legal battle with the SEC remains ongoing, Ripple’s determination to resolve these issues is a positive sign for the future of XRP. In 2025, potential changes at the SEC could lead to clearer crypto regulations, and a new, more crypto-friendly leadership may help define how cryptocurrencies like XRP are classified. A favorable outcome for Ripple could boost XRP’s value and strengthen the broader crypto market.

Despite legal uncertainties, XRP remains a popular choice worldwide, especially among banks, for fast and low-cost transactions. 

Capitalizing on XRP

If you're just starting with crypto and looking for a fast, low-cost, and easy-to-use option, XRP is a great choice. Whether you’re making small transactions, sending money to family abroad, or even just holding onto your crypto investment, XRP provides speed and savings that many other cryptocurrencies don’t. Below are some tips to start and manage your XRP investment.

How to buy and swap XRP in 2025

The easiest way to buy XRP is through an exchange or crypto app like Ballet Crypto app. You can directly store your XRP in Ballet cold storage wallet for XRP, which is for its security and hassle-free storage experience. By December 2024, Ballet Cold Storage wallets have secured over $800 digital assets. If you’re ready to dive in and make your first XRP purchase, download Ballet Crypto app today.

You can trade your XRP for any of the hundreds of assets available through Ballet Crypto app. 

How to store XRP

There are several ways to store XRP, including cold wallets, hot wallets, and custodial services. The best method for you will depend on your risk tolerance and preferences. However, many of these options can seem complicated, especially if you're not tech-savvy. That’s where Ballet Crypto’s XRP Cold Storage Card comes in—it offers a straightforward and secure solution for offline storage. With Ballet, you only need to reserve 1 XRP in your Ballet wallet (a 90% reduction from the previous fee of 10 XRP).

Here’s why Ballet's XRP Cold Storage Card is one of our best-sellers: 

• Easy to Use: No setup or technical knowledge required.

• Secure: 100% offline storage protects your XRP from hacking.

• Durable: Made from premium materials to last a lifetime.

• Customizable: Personalize your card for added style and functionality.

What Customers Are Saying About Ballet Cold Wallet

It’s not just us talking—here’s what actual users have to say about Ballet Cold Wallet:

“Nice way to park some XRP on the side. The card looks very nice in person, very easy to connect to the app. Very easy to send xrp to.”   

— John De Anda

“Received this morning :) Quality here. Let's load it”

— ClementKleo

“Easiest wallet on the market: That’s exactly where I keep my XRP. Best thing I ever purchased. It was literally in my cold wallet within minutes. Easiest wallet on the market.” 

— XRP Millionaire

Get Started with Ballet Cold Wallets Today

XRP’s speed, cost efficiency, growing adoption, and exciting developments make it a standout cryptocurrency. Whether you’re a trader, investor, or enthusiast, securing your XRP with Ballet Crypto’s cold storage solution ensures that your assets remain safe and accessible.

With Ballet Cold Wallets for XRP, you can rest assured that your cryptocurrencies are stored safely offline, protected from hackers and online threats. Invest in the security of your XRP with a Ballet Cold Wallet and protect your investments for the future.  

Useful Links: 

Ballet Official Online Store

Anti-Counterfeiting Guide

Download Ballet Crypto App

 

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