Ripple has launched digital asset spot prime brokerage capabilities in the United States, enabling institutional clients to execute OTC spot transactions in assets like XRP and RLUSD. This expansion, following the Hidden Road acquisition, enhances Ripple’s offerings for secure and efficient crypto trading.
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Ripple’s new service allows U.S. institutions to trade dozens of crypto assets via OTC spot execution.
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The initiative integrates with Ripple’s existing derivatives and custody solutions for comprehensive digital asset management.
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Backed by the $1.25 billion Hidden Road acquisition, this move supports broader institutional adoption, with XRP ETF filings adding to market momentum.
Ripple digital asset spot prime brokerage launches in the US, offering OTC trading for XRP and more. Discover how this boosts institutional access—explore Ripple’s latest innovations today.
What is Ripple’s Digital Asset Spot Prime Brokerage?
Ripple’s digital asset spot prime brokerage represents a significant expansion into institutional trading services, allowing U.S.-based clients to perform over-the-counter spot transactions in a wide range of cryptocurrencies, including XRP and its stablecoin RLUSD. Launched recently, this capability builds on Ripple’s established infrastructure in blockchain technology and payments, providing secure, efficient execution for institutional investors. By integrating these services, Ripple aims to streamline access to digital assets while complementing its OTC derivatives and custody offerings.
How Does Ripple’s Acquisition of Hidden Road Enhance These Services?
Ripple’s acquisition of Hidden Road, a multi-asset prime brokerage firm, for $1.25 billion has been pivotal in enabling this launch. The deal, initially announced in April 2025 and completed last month, merges Ripple’s licensing with Hidden Road’s advanced solutions, allowing institutions to access not only digital assets but also foreign exchange, futures, swaps, and fixed income products. This integration under the Ripple Prime brand positions the company as a one-stop provider for institutional needs in the evolving crypto landscape.
According to Ripple’s International CEO, Michael Higgins, “The launch of OTC spot execution capabilities complements our existing suite of OTC and cleared derivatives services in digital assets and positions us to provide U.S. institutions with a comprehensive offering to suit their trading strategies and needs.” This development underscores Ripple’s commitment to regulatory compliance and innovation, drawing on Hidden Road’s expertise to ensure robust risk management and clearing services.
Statistical data from industry reports highlights the growing demand: institutional crypto trading volumes have surged by over 50% in the past year, driven by clearer U.S. regulations. Ripple’s move aligns with this trend, potentially capturing a larger share of the $2 trillion global digital asset market. Experts note that such prime brokerage services reduce counterparty risks, making them essential for hedge funds and asset managers entering the space.
🇺🇸 JUST IN: Ripple launches Digital-Asset Spot Prime Brokerage in the United States.
This move marks a NEW ERA: Ripple isn’t just a payments company anymore…
It’s BUILDING the NEW WALL STREET backbone. $XRP = LIQUIDITY. UTILITY. ADOPTION. 🚀🌊 pic.twitter.com/jO8WUAgpe3
— John Squire (@TheCryptoSquire) November 3, 2025
Ripple’s strategic acquisitions extend beyond Hidden Road. In 2025, the company also acquired GTreasury as part of a $1 billion deal, which CEO Brad Garlinghouse described as a “watershed moment for corporate treasury management.” This enhances Ripple’s capabilities in managing digital and traditional financial instruments seamlessly.
Furthermore, Ripple has forged partnerships to expand its global footprint. A collaboration with Bahrain Fintech Bay, one of the Kingdom’s leading fintech incubators, aims to accelerate blockchain adoption and innovation in the region, as reported by Cryptopolitan. In Africa, Ripple partnered with Absa Bank to integrate institutional-grade digital asset custody technology, enabling the storage of tokenized assets, including cryptocurrencies, for South African customers.
To bolster its ecosystem, Ripple led a $1 billion funding round to increase its XRP treasury reserves. This initiative supports liquidity and seamless blockchain payments, reflecting confidence in an improving U.S. regulatory environment under the current administration, according to Garlinghouse.
Frequently Asked Questions
What assets can U.S. institutions trade through Ripple’s new spot prime brokerage?
U.S. institutions can execute OTC spot transactions across dozens of crypto assets via Ripple’s digital asset spot prime brokerage, including XRP and RLUSD. This service covers major tokens and stablecoins, ensuring liquidity and compliance with U.S. regulations for secure institutional trading.
How will Ripple’s spot prime brokerage impact XRP ETF approvals?
Ripple’s spot prime brokerage launch coincides with heightened optimism for XRP exchange-traded funds, as issuers like Bitwise and Canary Capital finalize filings for mid-November 2025 debuts. With around 20 pending XRP ETF applications at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, this infrastructure could facilitate smoother integration and investor access once approvals are granted.
The regulatory landscape has shifted positively, with the SEC under new leadership accelerating ETF reviews to as little as 75 days, though with certain stipulations. This follows the success of Solana ETFs, where Bitwise’s BSOL product attracted $417 million in inflows last week, surpassing BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETF and Ethereum funds combined, per SoSoValue data.
Industry leaders are vocal about the potential. Bitwise Chief Investment Officer Matt Hougan stated that an XRP ETF could “easily become” a billion-dollar fund in its early months. Canary Capital CEO Steven McClurg forecasted up to $5 billion in inflows within the first month of trading, drawing parallels to the $3.2 billion Bitcoin ETFs saw initially. Despite recent market volatility, with XRP trading at $2.33 after a 6.7% dip in the last 24 hours, these developments signal strong institutional interest.
Ripple’s broader ecosystem plays a key role here. Its cross-border payment solutions, custody services, and stablecoin RLUSD provide the foundational utility that ETF issuers highlight in their applications. As the company continues to invest in infrastructure, it not only supports XRP’s liquidity but also positions itself as a leader in bridging traditional finance and blockchain technology.
Key Takeaways
- Ripple’s U.S. launch of spot prime brokerage: Enables OTC trading in assets like XRP, enhancing institutional access through integrated services post-Hidden Road acquisition.
- Strategic expansions and partnerships: Deals like GTreasury and collaborations with Bahrain Fintech Bay and Absa Bank demonstrate Ripple’s global push for blockchain adoption.
- XRP ETF optimism: Pending approvals could drive billions in inflows, bolstered by Ripple’s infrastructure and a favorable regulatory shift.
Conclusion
Ripple’s digital asset spot prime brokerage launch marks a transformative step for Ripple spot prime brokerage services, empowering U.S. institutions with robust OTC trading options amid growing ETF prospects for XRP. By leveraging acquisitions like Hidden Road and strategic partnerships, Ripple solidifies its role in institutional crypto adoption. As regulatory clarity advances, investors can anticipate enhanced liquidity and innovation—stay informed on these developments to navigate the dynamic digital asset market effectively.
