• Ripple’s recent massive buyback, valued at $11.3 billion, is a strategic move to ensure ongoing liquidity for investors, with $500 million dedicated to covering expenses and taxes.
• Ripple’s CTO, David Schwartz, defends the buyback, emphasizing the importance of providing employees with a path to liquidity and highlighting the illiquidity of the market for equity in privately held companies.

In a surprising move, Ripple, a prominent player in the cryptocurrency space, recently undertook a massive buyback, leaving the crypto community abuzz with speculation. The company’s Chief Technology Officer (CTO), David Schwartz, sheds light on the compelling reasons behind this strategic decision.

Ripple’s Valuation Soars to $11.3 Billion

The buyback, officially termed a tender offer, skyrocketed Ripple’s valuation to a staggering $11.3 billion. Confidential sources revealed that investors were limited to selling only 6% of their ownership, adding an element of exclusivity to the financial maneuver.

A $500 Million Investment in Liquidity

A significant portion of the buyback, amounting to $500 million, is earmarked for covering the expenses associated with converting restricted stock units into shares and addressing tax obligations. This substantial investment signifies Ripple’s commitment to ensuring liquidity for its investors.

Ripple’s Pledge for Regular Share Buybacks

Looking ahead, Ripple has declared its intention to conduct more share buybacks on a regular basis. This move aims to provide ongoing liquidity for investors, showcasing the company’s dedication to the financial well-being of those involved. Surprisingly, Ripple has also made it clear that it currently has no plans to go public in the United States, citing regulatory uncertainty as a key factor.

Ripple’s IPO Debate Sparks Twitter Storm

The recent buyback and Ripple’s decision to avoid an initial public offering (IPO) have ignited a fervent debate on Twitter. Former Ripple developer, Matt Hamilton, questions the potential benefits of an IPO for Ripple, arguing that the company doesn’t need to raise funds. Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse’s revelation of the company’s robust financial position further adds weight to this argument, with over $1 billion in cash and $25 billion in crypto assets.

CTO David Schwartz Defends Buyback Strategy

Joining the discourse, Ripple CTO David Schwartz defended the buyback, emphasizing the importance of providing employees with a clear path to liquidity for their stock options. In response to queries about why Ripple is repurchasing shares in a seemingly liquid market, Schwartz highlighted the illiquidity of the market for equity in privately held companies.

In summary, Ripple’s recent buyback is not just a financial maneuver but a strategic move to ensure ongoing liquidity for investors. As the crypto industry continues to evolve, Ripple’s decisions will undoubtedly shape the narrative and influence the trajectory of the company in the highly dynamic market.