XRP’s Advantage? Being Built in the U.S. at the Right Time

$XRP has been in the crypto world for over a decade, and despite many challenges, it’s still standing. Recently, Dan Tapiero—founder of 10T Holdings and a long-time investor—shared his thoughts on $XRP, praising its ability to survive in a tough and fast-changing industry.

In an interview with CoinDesk, he said that, “One very impressive thing about $XRP is just how long it’s lasted, how many times it’s come under attack. It’s the Lindy effect—the longer it exists, the stronger it becomes.”

A History of Scrutiny and Survival

$XRP’s journey has been anything but smooth. Its parent company, Ripple Labs, has faced fierce criticism and legal challenges—including a high-profile lawsuit from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) that resulted in $XRP being delisted from several major U.S. exchanges. For a time, it looked like $XRP might fade into obscurity.

But the token didn’t disappear. It bounced back.

Despite detractors—particularly among Bitcoin maximalists and Ethereum loyalists—$XRP has retained a passionate community and continued use cases.

ETFs and the American Edge

Recent chatter around ProShares launching $XRP ETFs has sparked fresh interest, though it’s met with mixed reactions in the crypto community. Tapiero points out that while Bitcoin and Ethereum dominate headlines, $XRP is carving out a unique identity—and doing so from U.S. soil. “It’s made in America. And with this administration, that matters,” he said.

A Personal Connection

Tapiero’s connection to $XRP runs deep. His first crypto trades were in Bitcoin and $XRP, executed via a platform then called BitReserve—now known as Uphold. His gold firm, Gold Bullion International (GBI), was the first to let users trade gold for $XRP and Bitcoin.

Back then, $XRP traded at a tenth of a cent. Today, it fluctuates around $2.00 depending on market cycles. Looking back, Tapiero admits he didn’t fully understand $XRP at the time and didn’t hold onto it long-term. But his takeaway is one many in the space can relate to:

“Just because you didn’t buy it at a tenth of a cent doesn’t mean you couldn’t buy it at one cent, or ten cents. If you believe in something, never give up on it.”