XRP: Ripple Urged to Acquire Circle for Crypto Fairness

XRP continues to be a focal point in the crypto industry, and its potential role in a transformative acquisition is now generating serious discussion. In a recent online discussion, Charles Hoskinson, the founder of Cardano, voiced strong support for Ripple’s possible acquisition of Circle, claiming it could drastically improve the digital asset landscape.

Speaking during a Sunday ask-me-anything (AMA) session, Hoskinson addressed antitrust concerns while highlighting the benefits Ripple could bring to the broader crypto space. He pointed out that the current market dynamics favor an exclusive group, often referred to as the “Coinbase-a16z-Circle mafia,” which he believes limits access for others not embedded within that system.

“This small clique has built an insular ecosystem,” Hoskinson remarked, “making it particularly difficult for newcomers to obtain listings, liquidity, or even access to widely used stablecoins.” Such a closed framework, he argued, works against the ideals of decentralization and inclusivity that the crypto world champions.

From an industry standpoint, this move by Ripple could shatter existing monopolistic structures and introduce much-needed competition. According to Hoskinson, Ripple’s involvement would open the door for alternative pathways to success and reduce the chokehold a few companies currently have over vital services like stablecoin issuance and market listings.

“Ripple would be a better custodian,” he emphasized, making it clear that he sees more transparency and fairness coming from Ripple than current players tied to Circle’s existing alliances. He believes this shift could democratize operations and create a more balanced financial ecosystem within Web3 and decentralized finance initiatives.

While no acquisition has been finalized, reports indicate that Ripple had previously made a $5 billion offer to acquire Circle. However, this bid was turned down as inadequate. Rumors now suggest Ripple may be willing to offer as much as $11 billion to make the deal a reality. According to Hoskinson, such persistence signals Ripple’s serious interest in pursuing the acquisition.

Meanwhile, competition for Circle’s acquisition has heated up. Coinbase is reportedly also in the race, and the company maintains tight business relationships with Circle, potentially giving it the inside track. Despite this, Circle is continuing its plans to go public, having filed for an IPO earlier this April. That IPO initiative indicates Circle’s interest in long-term independence, but acquisition talks may still influence its trajectory.

However, not everyone in the crypto industry thinks an acquisition by Ripple would proceed smoothly. Legal concerns exist, especially around potential antitrust violations. Gabriel Shapiro, founder of MetaLeX Labs, suggested such a mega-merger could be so disruptive that it might trigger what he calls a “crypto apocalypse.” He contends that should Ripple go ahead with the acquisition, the deal might not withstand regulatory scrutiny due to the significant control it could consolidate in the stablecoin and payment infrastructure sectors.

Yet, despite criticisms and legal fears, proponents like Hoskinson stay optimistic. He envisions a post-acquisition crypto environment where centralized gatekeeping is replaced by decentralized opportunity—one that aligns more closely with the original spirit of digital currency innovation.

In the fast-evolving blockchain and crypto markets, Ripple’s potential maneuver could have lasting effects on market fairness, accessibility, and infrastructure stability. With XRP playing a pivotal role in Ripple’s strategic plans, market watchers are paying close attention to the outcome of these talks, knowing that it could significantly reshape the Web3 competitive framework.

Related: Expert Advice: Sell XRP If You’re Confused

Whether or not the deal comes to pass, the conversation itself is a testament to Ripple’s growing influence and XRP’s foundational role in the larger crypto ecosystem. The next few months could prove pivotal not only for Ripple and Circle but for the broader decentralized future many in the blockchain community are striving to build.