The topic of IPOs in the cryptocurrency sector has once again come to the forefront following recent statements by Ripple. At the XRP Las Vegas 2026 event, CEO Brad Garlinghouse made it clear that going public is not an immediate priority for the company. Known for its XRP token and blockchain-based payment systems, Ripple is opting to postpone its IPO plans, taking current market conditions and its strategic objectives into account.
Timing the possible IPO
In remarks addressing ongoing IPO speculation, Brad Garlinghouse cut through the rumors, stating that “going public is not a priority for us right now.” He drew attention to how major industry exchanges such as BitGo, Gemini, and Kraken have underperformed following their own IPOs, suggesting that now is not the opportune moment for Ripple to take this step.
For us, an IPO is not a priority at this time for many reasons. Looking at the outcomes for other companies, we see no need to rush, Garlinghouse emphasized at the event.
Garlinghouse’s comments present a striking counterpoint at a time when IPOs are often seen as a milestone for size and legitimacy within the industry. Nevertheless, it is clear that Ripple is not ruling out the possibility entirely, as internal discussions about going public have taken place from time to time.
Regulatory landscape and market conditions
David Schwartz, Ripple’s former CTO, highlighted at the same event that going public remains on the table for Ripple. He indicated that with the changing political and regulatory climate—especially should Donald Trump return to the presidency in 2024—these factors could influence the company’s long-term plans. Ripple continues to monitor the situation, seeking greater regulatory clarity, improved market conditions, and optimal timing.
At the beginning of 2026, Ripple had dismissed IPO rumors in a measured manner, redirecting its focus to institutional adoption of XRP, infrastructure improvements, and compliance processes. This aligns with the broader trend in crypto, which has shifted from short-term price surges to longer-term reliability and partnerships with established financial institutions.
Institutional moves and XRP price outlook
Around mid-2025, speculation about Ripple’s potential IPO once again gained momentum. Attorney John Deaton suggested that Ripple’s market value could reach $100 billion. During the same period, trading volume for XRP futures on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange surpassed $500 million—a jump widely interpreted as a possible sign of an upcoming public offering.
Despite these growing expectations, Brad Garlinghouse’s recent statements indicate that the company is charting a different course from market speculation. Instead of chasing short-term gains, Ripple is focusing on strengthening its fundamentals, expanding real-world utility, and increasing institutional acceptance of XRP.
Ripple’s stance is clear: while many companies in the sector have acted amid inflated expectations and momentum, Ripple’s priorities remain scaling its operations and building robust corporate infrastructure. Going public will be considered only if and when the circumstances are fully favorable.
