- Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse has been shortlisted for a position on President Trump’s newly formed U.S. Crypto Advisory Council, which aims to shape crypto regulations and address key industry debates like asset classification.
- His inclusion, along with other major crypto leaders, signals a potential shift toward clearer and more industry-friendly policies in the U.S.
Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse has been shortlisted for a pivotal position on President Donald Trump’s newly formed U.S. Crypto Advisory Council. The council, created by executive order in Trump’s first week back in office, is set to shape the future of crypto policies and regulations in the United States.
A Shift in U.S. Crypto Regulations
Under the Biden administration, crypto firms struggled with unclear and often stringent regulations. The shift in leadership has sparked new optimism, as Trump’s administration appears to be prioritizing innovation in digital assets. The advisory council is expected to bring industry leaders together to guide policy development and regulatory frameworks for cryptocurrencies.
One of the key debates the council will tackle is the classification of cryptocurrencies—whether they should be treated as commodities or securities. This decision holds major implications, as it determines whether regulatory oversight falls under the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).
Garlinghouse’s Influence and Ripple’s Growing Role
Garlinghouse’s inclusion on the shortlist has fueled speculation about Ripple’s increasing influence in shaping crypto policy. Having long advocated for clear and fair regulations, his potential appointment could provide a significant boost to the broader cryptocurrency industry. Ripple’s native token, XRP, has been at the center of regulatory discussions, and Garlinghouse’s presence on the council could influence how such assets are treated in the future.
Additionally, rumors are swirling about XRP’s possible inclusion in a national reserve list, though no official statements have been made. Some believe Trump’s previous meetings with Ripple executives before his first term could be connected to this latest development, potentially positioning Ripple as a key player in the U.S. financial landscape.
Other Industry Leaders in the Mix
Garlinghouse isn’t the only high-profile figure under consideration. Other notable crypto leaders on the shortlist include:
- Marco Santori, Kraken’s former general counsel
- Frank Chaparro, crypto podcast host
- Jeremy Allaire, CEO of Circle
- Brian Armstrong, CEO of Coinbase
- Kris Marszalek, CEO of Crypto.com
Each of these individuals brings unique expertise to the table, and their collective influence could steer the U.S. toward more progressive and structured crypto policies.
What’s Next for U.S. Crypto Regulation?
With Trump’s push for crypto-friendly policies, the formation of the U.S. Crypto Advisory Council marks a turning point for digital assets in the country. If Garlinghouse secures a position, it could signal a new era for Ripple and the broader cryptocurrency industry.
As regulatory clarity improves, investors and businesses alike will be watching closely to see how these developments shape the future of crypto in the United States.
