The post Garlinghouse Reveals Ripple’s $70 Billion Crypto Balance With XRP Escrow Not Included appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Ripple is holding between $60 billion and $70 billion in crypto assets, along with about $4 billion in cash, according to CEO Brad Garlinghouse. In a recent interview at the FII Priority Miami conference, he clarified that XRP held in escrow by Ripple is not included in this figure, suggesting additional reserves beyond the reported balance sheet.

This level of holdings places Ripple among the strongest players in the digital asset space, especially as it expands its institutional offerings.

RLUSD Wasn’t a Sudden Move

Garlinghouse said the decision to launch RLUSD was tied directly to Ripple’s payments operations. The company has processed more than $100 billion in cross-border transactions and was responsible for minting about 20% of the USDC supply at one point.

That experience pushed Ripple to build its own solution. 

As he put it, “If we’re the number one minter on the network, why don’t we look at actually doing this ourselves?”

The shift gained urgency after the USDC de-peg during the Silicon Valley Bank collapse, which raised concerns around backing and reliability. RLUSD is positioned as a compliance-focused stablecoin aimed at institutional use.

Was it worth it?

Not everyone is convinced. Some X users argue that RLUSD’s growth, which reportedly reached a $1.5 billion market cap, may be drawing attention away from XRP. They also point to XRP’s price decline from its 2025 highs and ongoing token unlocks as concerns, while others say institutions may prefer stablecoins for settlement instead of using XRP for liquidity.

More Players Entering the Market

In the competition, Garlinghouse made it clear that more players are entering the space. Large institutions like banks are actively exploring launching their own stablecoins, which could lead to short-term expansion.

However, he doesn’t see endless growth in the number of coins. “We don’t need 50 U.S. dollar stablecoins,” he said, warning that too many options could create fragmentation similar to early banking systems.

Over time, he expects consolidation, where a few strong players dominate and specialize in different areas like payments or custody.

Moving with Clarity..

Regulatory progress is influencing the market’s direction. Garlinghouse pointed to recent U.S. efforts, including the GENIUS Act, as a factor behind growing corporate interest in stablecoins.

He also noted improving coordination between regulators, including the SEC and CFTC, which recently aligned on classifying several digital assets. Discussions around additional legislation, including the CLARITY Act, are ongoing, with debates focused on issues such as yield on stablecoins.

Stablecoins Move Toward Mainstream Use

Ripple sees stablecoins becoming a core part of financial systems rather than a niche product. As Garlinghouse stated, 

“The stablecoin payment wave is happening, and it’s going to happen fast.”

With strong reserves and rising institutional interest, Ripple is positioning itself as stablecoins see wider adoption.

FAQs

The post Cardano’s Charles Hoskinson Calls Midnight ‘Next-Gen Crypto,’ Investor Asks: Sell ADA? appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Charles Hoskinson has sparked fresh buzz around Midnight after calling it a “next-generation cryptocurrency,” as the project continues to gain traction.

The attention comes after Midnight secured a major deal with UK-based digital bank Monument to tokenize £250 million in customer deposits. The move marks a milestone, as it’s the first time a UK-regulated bank will tokenize deposits on a public blockchain while keeping them protected and interest-bearing.

Hoskinson Explains the “Next-Gen” Angle

Hoskinson pointed out Midnight’s unique tokenomics, noting that protocol revenue can be used to buy and recycle its NIGHT token into the treasury. This, he says, creates a sustainable model while keeping supply deflationary.

He also pointed to its “capacity exchange” mechanism, calling it a key innovation that sets Midnight apart. “Midnight is leading the way… the tip of the spear,” he said, focusing on its role in bringing real-world assets onto blockchain rails.

Where Does Cardano Fit In?

On the other hand, Midnight has raised concerns about Cardano’s role. However, Hoskinson clarified that Cardano remains deeply integrated into the infrastructure.

According to him, most commercial deals involving Midnight will still include a Cardano component, meaning both networks are expected to benefit together rather than compete. Midnight also relies on Cardano for security, reinforcing that connection.

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•   ,

Investors Doubt ADA’s Future

Though it is seen as a positive move, this sudden shift has triggered doubts among some investors. Questions like “Should I sell ADA and move to NIGHT?” have started circulating online.

This comes at a time when ADA is still far below its previous highs, and Cardano’s DeFi remains smaller compared to rivals. However, not all sentiment is negative, as some community members see Midnight as exactly the kind of push the ecosystem needs.

Whale Activity Tells a Mixed Story

On-chain data shows a split among large holders. Some mid-sized whales have reduced their positions, while larger wallets have accumulated roughly 270 million ADA in recent days.

This shows that while some investors are uncertain, others are buying the dip, potentially providing support if accumulation continues.

On the flip side, Midnight’s early success, especially with institutional partnerships, could act as a catalyst for Cardano rather than a replacement. If adoption grows, it may bring more activity, liquidity, and real-world use cases into the broader ecosystem.

For now, Midnight is driving the narrative, but ADA’s role remains tied to how well this expansion plays out.

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The post Trump to Appear on US Dollar Bills in Historic First for Sitting President appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

The U.S. government is set to make a historic change to its paper money. President Donald Trump’s signature will soon appear on U.S. currency, marking the first time a sitting president’s name is printed on dollar bills.

The move is part of celebrations for America’s 250th anniversary and is expected to begin with the $100 bill starting in June 2026.

A 165-Year Tradition Ends

The update also breaks a long-standing tradition. Since 1861, U.S. currency has always carried the signatures of both the Treasury Secretary and the U.S. Treasurer. With this redesign, the Treasurer’s signature will be removed entirely.

This means the new notes will feature only Trump’s signature alongside that of Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. The current Treasurer, Brandon Beach, will not have his name printed on currency, making him the first in the role to miss that distinction in over a century.

Treasury Secretary Bessent said, “There is no more powerful way to recognize the historic achievements of our great country and President Donald J. Trump than U.S. dollar bills bearing his name.”

Rollout Begins With $100 Bills

The first redesigned $100 notes will be printed in June, and more denominations are expected to follow over time. However, it may take a few weeks before these new bills fully enter circulation through banks.

Existing currency with earlier signatures will remain valid and continue to circulate alongside the new notes.

This decision is part of a wider effort to associate Trump’s name with national symbols and institutions. Recent moves have included proposals for coins, buildings, and other federal projects linked to his presidency.

Supporters say the change reflects strong economic performance during his term. Officials have described it as a symbolic way to mark both the country’s milestone anniversary and Trump’s leadership.

Rules and Limits Still Apply

While the signature is changing, most elements of U.S. currency will remain the same. Laws still require key features like “In God We Trust,” and only deceased individuals can appear in portraits on bills.

So, apart from the signature update, the overall design of the currency will stay unchanged.

The post David Sacks Steps Down: Has the Clarity Act Lost Its Most Powerful Ally? appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

David Sacks has stepped down from his role as the White House’s AI and crypto czar after his term as a Special Government Employee expired. 

“We’ve accomplished a lot in the first year, but the President wants to keep the pedal to the metal on everything tech. That’s exactly what we will do,” Sackssaid.

Behind the Scenes

Despite stepping down from the czar role, Sacks is not fully stepping away from policy discussions. He is expected to continue as co-chair of the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST), a position that could still allow him to influence crypto and AI-related decisions at a broader level.

Eleanor Terrett said she has reached out to both the White House and Sacks for further clarification on his future involvement, but no official response has been confirmed yet.

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Mixed Signals Before the Exit

The development comes shortly after earlier statements hinted that Sacks would remain actively involved. During an appearance tied to EthereumDenver, White House Crypto Council Executive Director Patrick Witt said that Sacks showed “no indication of wanting to step back” and was continuing work at full pace.

However, in a more recent update, Sacks confirmed to Bloomberg that his role as crypto czar has concluded.

Sacks’ exit comes as several important crypto initiatives remain unfinished. These include the widely discussed Clarity Act, aimed at defining regulatory boundaries for digital assets, and proposals such as a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve.

At the moment, it remains unclear whether the White House will appoint a new crypto lead or distribute responsibilities across existing agencies and advisors.

FAQs

The post Ripple News: 25% of 351 Surveyed Institutions Add XRP in 2026 appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

The crypto market has faced a prolonged slowdown since late 2025, with total valuations dropping by nearly $1.45 trillion. XRP has mirrored this trend, falling close to 51% during the same period, highlighting the broader weakness across altcoins.

Yet institutional behavior tells a different story. Rather than exiting, large investors are repositioning and preparing for future opportunities. A recent survey by Coinbase reveals that 25% of institutions are planning to add XRP to their portfolios in 2026, pointing to renewed confidence at lower levels.

Institutions Lean In, Not Out

The January 2026 study, conducted with Ernst & Young, surveyed 351 institutional investors, most managing assets above $1 billion. The findings show a clear pattern: participation remains strong, but strategies are changing.

Around 73% of respondents intend to increase their crypto exposure this year. Meanwhile, 29% expect digital assets to account for more than 5% of their portfolios, a notable rise from 18% previously. Although sentiment has softened, most institutions still expect the market to recover over the next year.

At the same time, there is a visible move toward regulated access. Nearly two-thirds now use ETFs or ETPs, while over 80% prefer structured, compliant investment routes. 

XRP Allocation Finds Its Place in Portfolios

XRP is becoming an important part of institutional allocations. While Bitcoin continues to lead, investors are expanding into other assets beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum.

Currently, 18% of institutions already hold XRP, while 25% plan to add it this year. Interestingly, XRP has been attracting growing institutional capital, with reports of around $154 million exposure from Goldman Sachs and notable investors like Andy Schectman allocating nearly 10% of holdings. This reflects a calculated bet rather than speculation, driven by the view that increased bank adoption could unlock strong upside, while limited adoption may cap growth. 

This places XRP alongside major altcoins like Solana, BNB, and Cardano in institutional consideration.

XRP Current Sentiment

Meanwhile, XRP volatility has dropped to its lowest level in 2026, with data shared by analyst Xaif Crypto showing a 30-day realized volatility at multi-month lows while price holds steady around $1.43. The analyst suggests this is not a bearish signal but a buildup phase, where supply and demand are balanced before a major move. 

Historically, such low-volatility periods have preceded sharp breakouts, meaning a strong move, up or down, could be near, with the volatility shift acting as a key trigger.

The post Pi Network News: Referral Rewards Are Finally Moving to Mainnet, But There Is One Condition  appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Pi Network has officially started rolling out its Second Migration Phase after Pi Day 2026, allowing users to transfer additional balances to the mainnet. This follows the initial migration stage and opens the door for deeper participation in the ecosystem.

So far, more than 119,000 users have finished this phase, showing steady progress as access expands gradually across the network.

What Second Migrations Actually Do

This phase allows users who have already completed their first transfer to move remaining eligible balances. Unlike earlier, this now includes referral mining rewards, which were not fully processed before.

These rewards are tied to referral team activity, but there’s a key condition. Only bonuses linked to members who pass KYC can be moved. As a result, a user’s final transferable balance depends on how many of their referrals are verified.

Why Referral Rewards Matter Now

Referral bonuses are calculated across individual mining sessions and vary from user to user. Because of this, they require more detailed computation compared to standard mining rewards.

This is why the rollout took longer. The system must verify each reward based on activity and KYC status before recording it on-chain. Any unverified referral still holds back a portion of earnings until they complete verification.

What’s Different in This Phase

The second migration introduces more complex backend processing and stricter checks. At the same time, security has been strengthened, with users required to complete wallet two-factor authentication before any transfer. Since blockchain transactions cannot be reversed, this step ensures funds are protected.

Despite this update, first migrations remain the priority. Users still waiting for their initial transfer are not affected, and processing continues alongside the new rollout.

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•   ,

Expanding Use Cases for Pi

This phase arrives as the ecosystem continues to grow. Features like the Pi Launchpad on testnet and new app integrations are increasing how Pi can be used, moving beyond simple mining toward real utility.

Community Reaction

The update has drawn mixed responses. Some users have raised concerns about KYC issues, especially cases where accounts that completed the first migration were moved back to tentative status, blocking access to second migration rewards.

At the same time, others see this as steady progress. Many view the rollout as a meaningful step that rewards long-term participation while maintaining a controlled and careful approach.

FAQs

The post Court Throws Out Crypto Developer’s Case and Hands Him a DOJ Memo Instead of Real Legal Protection appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

A U.S. court in Texas has dismissed a lawsuit filed by crypto developer Michael Lewellen, who was seeking legal clarity for his blockchain-based software. The case was thrown out by Reed O’Connor, who ruled that Lewellen failed to show a credible and imminent threat of prosecution.

Lewellen had asked the court to confirm that his Ethereum-based tool, Pharos, designed for charitable crowdfunding, would not violate money transmission laws. Reacting to the decision, he expressed disappointment, arguing that developers are still left without real legal certainty.

“A non-binding DoJ memo is no substitute for real legal certainty.”

In an X post, Lewellen maintained that his software does not control user funds and simply acts as a neutral tool, similar to an envelope used to send checks. Based on this, he argued it should not be regulated like services such as Western Union or Venmo.

His position was backed by major crypto advocacy groups, who warned that unclear legal definitions could stifle innovation across decentralized finance.

Court Relies on DOJ Memo, Critics Push Back

However, in its decision, the court leaned on a U.S. Department of Justice memo suggesting prosecutors would avoid targeting crypto platforms for users’ actions or unintended violations.

However, critics were quick to challenge this reasoning. Crypto analyst and critic, Peter Van Valkenburgh, argued that such memos are not legally binding and can be revised or revoked at any time. He stressed that they do not offer real protection to developers.

Lewellen shared a similar concern, stating that a non-binding memo cannot replace clear legal rules. Critics say the court effectively used a temporary policy as justification to avoid providing lasting judicial clarity.

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•   ,

Past Cases Raise Concerns

Skepticism also stems from recent enforcement actions. Developers linked to Tornado Cash and Samourai Wallet faced prosecution and prison sentences for operating unlicensed money transmitting businesses.

Although Judge O’Connor distinguished those cases, highlighting their alleged links to money laundering, critics argue the outcomes show that developers still face real risks despite policy signals from regulators.

Industry Reaction: “Missed Opportunity”

The ruling has drawn strong reactions from across the crypto space. Policy voices like Jonathan Schmalfeld called the decision a “hugely disappointing result,” arguing that if current guidance were truly protective, ongoing cases like that of Roman Storm would not exist.

“Whether through market structure or elsewhere, developer protections MUST be codified into law.”

Many believe the court missed a key opportunity to define the legal boundaries for developers, leaving them in uncertainty.

FAQs

The post Clarity Act News Today: Senate Has 6 Weeks to Pass Crypto Law or Delay Until 2027 appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

The U.S. crypto industry is at a turning point. The CLARITY Act is moving closer to a Senate vote, and the next six weeks could decide whether crypto finally gets a proper legal framework or gets pushed to the back of the queue until 2027.

Congress recently held a four-hour hearing on tokenization, bringing together key voices from across the industry to debate what the CLARITY Act actually means and why the May deadline carries so much weight. Analyst VirtualBacon has since laid out a clear roadmap of what to expect in the weeks ahead.

Here is what is happening, why it matters, and where things could go from here.

Clarity Act status: Clarity or No Clarity?

The CLARITY Act is trying to do something the U.S. has never done before: draw a clear line between digital commodities like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana, and securities.

The bill has already passed the House with broad support and has White House backing. At its core, it hands the CFTC exclusive authority over digital commodities while introducing a concept called the “mature blockchain.” This means a token can launch under SEC oversight and, as its network becomes more decentralised over time, graduate into being treated as a commodity instead. It is a framework built around how crypto actually works, rather than forcing it into rules written decades before blockchain existed.

Importantly, analyst VirtualBacon was clear that this is not deregulation. The bill sets real, enforceable rules for exchanges, brokers, and custodians. It requires proper risk disclosures, permits blockchain-based recordkeeping, and overrides conflicting state-level laws that have created a patchwork of confusion across the country.

Racing Against the Senate Clock

The pressing challenge, however, is time. The Senate Banking Committee markup, scheduled between April 13-20, is the single make-or-break event. If it doesn’t pass, the crypto bill misses the narrow May window for floor votes and reconciliation before the Memorial Day recess, and the next chance would be 2027. Analysts like Alex Thorn warn that delays at this stage would effectively kill the bill for this session.

Stablecoins and DeFi in the Spotlight

However, stablecoin yield has been the main flashpoint. The compromise bans passive yield but allows activity-based rewards. The market reacted immediately: Circle dropped 20% and Coinbase 10%. Meanwhile, the treatment of DeFi protocols, especially lending and staking, remains unresolved, leaving a cloud of uncertainty.

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•   ,

Rare Unity in Tokenization Talks

A recent four-hour hearing brought Wall Street players and crypto developers together in unprecedented agreement. Both sides agreed that tokenized securities should follow existing rules and that blockchain will play a key role in modernizing markets.

Echoing the same, BlackRock CEO Larry Fink said in his annual shareholder letter that tokenization could “update the plumbing of the financial system.”

Watching the Next Six Weeks

Analyst concludes that April’s Senate markup is the crucial moment. If it passes, the bill could move quickly toward full implementation. If not, the U.S. crypto space faces a long wait. For investors and projects alike, the next month-and-a-half may well define the future of digital assets in America.

FAQs

The post XRP Fees Suddenly Spike: Ripple CTO Explains What’s Happening appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

The XRP Ledger has recently seen an increase in transaction fees as network activity climbed close to 200 transactions per ledger, a level rarely reached in its history. This surge in usage pushed the network closer to its limits, resulting in higher fees and increased load, which drew criticism from users.

Addressing the concerns, Ripple CTO David Schwartz explained that such fee spikes are a normal response when demand rises beyond what the network can handle efficiently.

Why Fees Rise Without Warning

According to Schwartz, XRP fees are designed to increase when transaction demand slightly exceeds capacity. Having said that, even a small overflow beyond key levels, like the 200 transactions per ledger range, can cause fees to jump quickly.

This happens because the system prioritizes stability. Instead of allowing congestion to build, it raises fees to limit excess transactions and ensure the network continues to function smoothly. 

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How the XRP Fee Mechanism Works

He further detailed that validators independently estimate how many transactions can fit into a ledger based on recent performance. They then apply an exponential fee curve, where costs rise rapidly once demand crosses a certain threshold.

The final clearing fee is not controlled by a single entity. Validators collectively determine it, typically requiring a majority agreement, and in some cases up to 80% consensus, depending on network conditions.

Transactions that do not meet the required fee are placed in a queue and prioritized based on the fee offered, ensuring that higher-value transactions are processed first.

What Happens During Network Stress

When the network begins to slow down, such as when consensus rounds stretch to around 12 seconds, validators take additional steps to stabilize performance. They reduce the number of transactions allowed per ledger and adjust the fee curve accordingly.

This means higher fees are required earlier, helping to manage congestion and bring the system back to normal operation.

Overall, the recent XRP fee spike shows how sensitive the network is to sudden increases in demand. As Schwartz explains, these changes are part of a built-in mechanism designed to protect performance. As the demand grows, similar fee movements may appear during periods of high activity.

FAQs

The post Smart Contracts, Tokens, and a May Deadline: Pi Network’s 2026 Roadmap Is Here appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Pi Network has officially announced completion dates for its node protocol upgrades, marking a crucial phase in the project’s path toward greater stability, performance, and future functionality. According to a recent post by crypto user Woody Lightyear, the team revealed a clear schedule for key protocol versions, culminating in the long‑anticipated v23.0 upgrade.

Upgrade Timeline Set for 2026

Pi Network has mapped out its protocol progression with the following milestones:

• April 6, 2026 – Completion of v21.2 update
• April 22, 2026 – Completion of v22.1 update
• May 18, 2026 – Final rollout of v23.0 upgrade

What the v23 Upgrade Means

The movement toward protocol version 23 marks one of Pi Network’s most significant core updates yet, representing a shift from the older v19 series through multiple intermediate versions. The upgrade is a mandatory, step‑by‑step process for all node operators, emphasizing coordination and consensus across the entire ecosystem.

Moreover, this upgrade is not merely an incremental patch but a substantial improvement in performance, security, and readiness for broader Web3 functionality. Nodes that fail to follow the required sequence may risk falling out of sync with the network or losing validation privileges.

Why Incremental Upgrades Matter

Pi Network’s sequential upgrade model prioritizes stability. In short, upgrading from one version to the next, rather than skipping steps, helps ensure that each technical layer functions correctly before moving forward. This reduces the risk of fragmentation or incompatibility within the network.

Nodes play a main role in maintaining the blockchain. They validate transactions, maintain consensus, and support network reliability. As such, these upgrades are seen as essential improvements that will enhance transaction handling, node communication, and overall system robustness as the ecosystem expands.

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•   ,

Community Reaction

Early community feedback shows excitement and anticipation. Many Pi users on Reddit believe that completing the final v23 upgrade could unlock greater participation, better performance, and expanded utility for Pi applications in the long term. Others note that clear deadlines help set expectations and guide node operators on what to prepare for in the months ahead. The community noted that the structured transition underscores the project’s methodical approach to upgrading its blockchain infrastructure rather than rushing into changes without thorough testing.

Some even asked what the updates actually mean, while others explained that each protocol version will bring new blockchain features. The Pi testnet is already running v23, which introduced tokens, leading to speculation that Pi Network could launch tokens on the mainnet as early as June.

As Pi Network progresses through this upgrade path, all eyes will be on how these changes impact scalability and the network’s readiness for broader Web3 adoption.

FAQs