Where Will XRP (Ripple) Be in 5 Years?
Ripple and the SEC have agreed to settle, ending years of legal uncertainty for XRP and its investors.
XRP's market cap is now rivaling top credit services stocks, but its payment volume still lags far behind.
The cryptocurrency could earn its massive market value over time, but it looks overpriced right now.
Cryptocurrencies are often unpredictable. XRP (CRYPTO: XRP) is a prime example of this quality. An ominous lawsuit started weighing on the cryptocurrency in December 2020. The suit started to wind down in the first half of 2024, and the Ripple Labs organization launched an XRP-based stablecoin. You'd think the cryptocurrency would soar on the news, but it took a steep dive instead.
Then the 2024 elections came along. A more crypto-friendly White House signaled the end of XRP's legal issues, and the cryptocurrency suddenly made up for lost time. Here in early July, 2025, XRP's 5-year returns finally match the Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) standard:
Where to invest $1,000 right now? Our analyst team just revealed what they believe are the 10 best stocks to buy right now. Continue »
XRP Price data by YCharts
But that's ancient history already. You always have to look forward in the fast-moving cryptocurrency market. Where will XRP go in the next five years -- and is it a good buy right now?
Let's have a look.
Ripple and SEC are settling their differences
The big catalyst every XRP owner was waiting for? Well, that one is playing out right now. Ripple Labs and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) have agreed to a settlement and withdrawn their appeals, effectively ending the four-year courtroom drama. There are a few more Ts to cross and Is to dot, as Judge Analisa Torres rejected the first settlement draft. The filing, which would end the case and impose a $50 million fine on Ripple Labs, was "procedurally improper."
So the lawyers are going back to the drawing board to hammer out a technically complete filing. But it seems like a foregone conclusion that the lawsuit is ending with much lower monetary damages and fewer operating restrictions than the SEC had requested earlier. And this outcome appears to be priced into XRP's chart, with the big jump falling shortly after November's election process.
If XRP were a stock...
XRP is one of the largest cryptocurrencies at this point, sporting a total market value of $133 billion on July 2. If XRP were a stock, representing the value of the related RippleNet international payments platform, it would be one of the 5 most valuable credit services on Wall Street. The hypothetical XRP market cap would still be far behind sector leaders Visa (NYSE: V) and Mastercard (NYSE: MA), whose market caps stand at $685 billion and $509 billion, respectively.
But XRP would be a significant force in the credit services industry -- and I don't think that's entirely fair in 2025.
Ripple vs. Visa: Spoiler, it's not a fair fight (yet)
There are fewer than 23,000 active accounts in the RippleNet transaction ledger. The platform processes about one million payments per day. The Ripple systems have moved "over $1 trillion" between different counterparties, but that's not on a daily or even annual basis. That's the total value processed since the first Ripple transaction was made in 2012.
By contrast, Visa's total payment volume was $3.9 trillion in the most recently reported quarter. Visa's transaction volume was 818 million payments per day. Mastercard's business metrics are about half of Visa's, but still many times richer than Ripple's relatively tiny operations.
I'm holding, not hoarding, my XRP coins in 2025
Yes, I believe that RippleNet and XRP will earn their stripes over time. However, the cryptocurrency shouldn't be worth about a quarter of Mastercard's market cap, based on vanishingly small transaction volumes and revenue streams. This bullish drama could very well play out over the next five years, finally making a serious Visa rival out of XRP.
It's just too early to give XRP that big of a market cap. I'm happy to hold my own XRP coins for the long haul, but this isn't the best time to back up the digital truck and load up on this cryptocurrency. The SEC lawsuit's closure has already been priced into XRP, and I think the big November jump was an overreaction.
You might still want to pick up a couple of XRP coins just to get exposure to this cryptocurrency with real-world business prospects. Just keep those purchases slow and small these days. A lower price or a sudden explosion in RippleNet transactions could signal a real buying opportunity over the next few years.
Should you invest $1,000 in XRP right now?
Before you buy stock in XRP, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and XRP wasn't one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you'd have $692,914!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you'd have $963,866!*
Now, it's worth noting Stock Advisor 's total average return is1,049% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to179%for the S&P 500. Don't miss out on the latest top 10 list, available when you join Stock Advisor.
See the 10 stocks »
*Stock Advisor returns as of June 30, 2025
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Globe and Mail
17 minutes ago
- Globe and Mail
Where Will Crypto Mining Go Next? PFMCrypto Launches New Mobile Cloud Mining App for Earning Anytime, Anywhere
Farington, England, July 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- With rising interest in alternative ways to grow digital wealth, PFMCrypto is proud to announce the official launch of its mobile cloud mining app, available now for iOS and Android. Designed for accessibility, speed, and security, the app allows users to participate in crypto mining directly from their smartphones—no mining rigs or technical skills required. Supporting BTC, DOGE, ETH and XRP settlements, the app opens multiple paths to passive income in a single streamlined interface. First-time users receive a $10 bonus upon signup, making it easier than ever to begin mining instantly from anywhere in the world. Download the new PFMCrypto App today from: For too long, crypto mining has been confined to expensive setups and complex configurations. PFMCrypto changes the landscape with its mobile-first cloud mining app. Users can activate contracts, track daily earnings, and withdraw in BTC, DOGE, ETH or XRP—all from a phone. Whether commuting, relaxing, or traveling, the opportunity to earn digital rewards is now just a tap away. By combining real-time mining with flexible payout options, the app is ideal for both casual users and committed investors. Every contract is fully remote, AI-optimized, and secured through enterprise-grade encryption, giving users peace of mind and continuous earning power. Key Features of PFMCrypto's Mobile Cloud Mining App: - Multi-Token Settlements: Withdraw earnings in BTC, DOGE, ETH or XRP—choose the asset that fits personal goals - User-Friendly Interface: Designed for effortless mining management from any mobile device - Instant Contract Activation: Start earning immediately with zero hardware required - Real-Time Tracking: View contract status, returns, and market performance in one dashboard - AI Optimization: Smart algorithms boost mining efficiency—even during low-volatility periods Mining Contracts Tailored for Every Lifestyle The PFMCrypto app offers a full range of cloud mining contracts suited for various investment levels and time frames. From short-term 1-day plans to long-term 45-day strategies, users can select contracts that align with their earning goals and risk tolerance: $10 Contract – 1 Day – Earn $0.66 (Free with signup bonus) $100 Contract – 2 Days – Earn $3.00 daily + $2 extra reward $500 Contract – 5 Days – Earn $6.15 daily $5,000 Contract – 30 Days – Earn $78.50 daily $20,000 Contract – 45 Days – Earn $380.00 daily Every plan offers daily payouts, with flexible reinvestment options and zero maintenance fees. The $10 bonus makes it easy to get started—without any initial investment. Click here to explore more contracts. What Makes PFMCrypto's Mobile Mining App Stand Out? - 100% Remote Mining: All contracts operate via the cloud and require no physical infrastructure or technical setup. Simply log in, select a plan, and start earning from anywhere. - Principal Guarantee: At the end of each contract, the original investment amount is returned in full—protecting capital while maximizing daily rewards. - AI-Enhanced Performance: The platform uses proprietary AI systems to analyze market conditions and optimize mining output across supported coins. - Multi-Channel Passive Income: With options to receive earnings in 10 major cryptocurrencies, the app empowers users to diversify income streams and manage risk effectively. How to Get Started with PFMCrypto's Mobile App ？ Create an Account – Instantly receive a $10 bonus and unlock beginner-friendly mining contracts. Choose a Plan – Activate a short- or long-term contract with daily payouts. Start Earning – Watch earnings grow and withdraw in the preferred token. Download the app or log in via the website. Mining Freedom for a Multi-Coin Future Since 2018, PFMCrypto has helped global users generate reliable crypto income without complexity. With this mobile launch, the platform takes another step toward decentralizing opportunity—making mining smarter, more flexible, and more rewarding. 'With support for multiple coins and the ability to mine on the move, this app brings the next era of cloud mining directly to users' hands,' said a PFMCrypto spokesperson. 'We've combined performance, simplicity, and choice—so anyone can earn from the crypto economy, any time.' Digital markets may shift—but passive income doesn't have to. Download the PFMCrypto app today and start mining BTC, DOGE, ETH or XRP with zero hassle. Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release does not constitute an investment solicitation, nor does it constitute investment advice, financial advice, or trading recommendations. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risks and the possibility of losing funds. It is strongly recommended that you perform due diligence before investing or trading in cryptocurrencies and securities, including consulting a professional financial advisor.
Globe and Mail
an hour ago
- Globe and Mail
Why Is Everyone Talking About SoundHound AI Stock?
Key Points SoundHound provides an independent AI voice platform to customers across multiple industries. It has a total addressable market of $140 billion. The company is growing at triple-digit rates. Artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the most significant trends of our generation, thanks to its transformative effects that will impact almost every aspect of our lives. Think of it as revolutionary as electricity and the internet. Unsurprisingly, investors have been doubling down on companies well-positioned to leverage this trend, such as Nvidia, Palantir, and Tesla. But AI will bring opportunities not only to these big tech giants but also to smaller, up-and-coming future tech giants. SoundHound AI (NASDAQ: SOUN) is one of them. A leading voice AI platform Initially founded in 2005 as a music recognition company, SoundHound has evolved into a broader AI voice platform company with proprietary technology that understands and responds to human speech in real time. The company's value proposition, though complex to achieve, is relatively straightforward. It provides a voice platform that's embedded directly into products (such as cars) without requiring the use of cloud-based assistants like Alexa, Siri, or Google Assistant. With the help of its software, users can use voice as an interface to interact with smart devices, cars, or other Internet of Things (IoT) devices. Leveraging its technology in voice recognition and natural language understanding, the company has built a proprietary offering that's independent of consumer tech companies like Microsoft and Alphabet. According to the company, its technology surpasses that of competitors in terms of speed, accuracy, and understanding of complex language. With its technology stack, it allows for the provision of best-in-class service while giving customers complete control over their brand, users, and data. Additionally, SoundHound has leveraged the latest AI technologies, including generative AI, to develop its voice AI agent. The AI agent can function on smartphones, SMS, kiosks, mobile apps, and web chats, helping customers tackle a wide range of customer service activities across multiple industries. Currently, the company's main customers are automotive and hospitality businesses, quick-service restaurants, and call centers. In return for providing its voice platform, SoundHound generates revenue primarily through three channels. First, it receives royalties on products -- cars, smart TVs, and IoT devices -- that incorporate its voice platform. Here, customers pay based on volume, usage, per device, or user. Next, it generates software-as-a-service revenue from services such as food ordering and customer service. Here, customers pay on a monthly contract or a usage basis. The last pillar of SoundHound's revenue centers around advertising and commerce, where it earns a commission by enabling sales of customer products and services. Ample opportunity to grow Although AI voice platform adoption may still be in its early stages, customers appreciate the solutions SoundHound provides, which explains its solid growth rate. In the first quarter of 2025, revenue grew 151% to $29.1 million. Better still, there are good reasons to expect the company can sustain its high growth trajectory for a while. According to the company, it has a total addressable market (TAM) of $140 billion across various industries. At an annualized revenue rate of around $120 million, it has just scratched the surface. Let's consider a few of the most apparent areas, starting with the automotive industry. SoundHound has just achieved 3%-5% penetration of its existing customers' 25 million unit sales. That's 28% of global light vehicle sales of 88 million in 2024 -- a vehicle category that may reach 95 million units in 2028. The company can increase its penetration even further by growing with existing customers or adding new client brands. To this end, the tech company's existing experience working with automakers, its leading technology, as well as its independent platform (an alternative to Alexa, Siri, or Google Assistant) are some advantages it can leverage to grow its market share. The other obvious growth avenue is its subscription service in the restaurant industry. Increasing labor shortages, rising wages, and customer demand for fast service make voice automation an attractive tool for restaurant operators. Just in the U.S. alone, SoundHound has a revenue opportunity of $1 billion and a TAM of 0.8 million restaurants. Chipotle, Five Guys, and Casey's are a few examples of its growing list of customers. It is also worth noting that the SoundHound voice AI platform offers solutions in 25 languages (which can expand further over time), allowing it to provide its services to customers globally. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, the company announced deals with customers in Latin America, Europe, and Japan and joined forces with Tencent Intelligent Mobility. The sky seems to be the limit. What it means for investors SoundHound AI is no longer just a niche voice assistant company -- it's evolving into a mission-critical AI platform for some of the world's largest industries. Whether it's powering intelligent voice assistants in cars, automating food orders at restaurants, or handling customer service calls with conversational AI agents, SoundHound is betting on voice recognition to be the next central interface -- and it's building a proprietary infrastructure to support its expansion. Still, investors should be mindful that the road ahead will be rocky, especially with the adoption of new technologies like AI voice platforms. It's best to monitor the company closely to build your understanding and conviction. Should you invest $1,000 in SoundHound AI right now? Before you buy stock in SoundHound AI, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and SoundHound AI wasn't one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you'd have $699,558!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you'd have $976,677!* Now, it's worth noting Stock Advisor 's total average return is1,060% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to180%for the S&P 500. Don't miss out on the latest top 10 list, available when you join Stock Advisor. See the 10 stocks » *Stock Advisor returns as of June 30, 2025 Suzanne Frey, an executive at Alphabet, is a member of The Motley Fool's board of directors. Lawrence Nga has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Alphabet, Chipotle Mexican Grill, Microsoft, Nvidia, Palantir Technologies, Tencent, and Tesla. The Motley Fool recommends Casey's General Stores and recommends the following options: long January 2026 $395 calls on Microsoft, short January 2026 $405 calls on Microsoft, and short June 2025 $55 calls on Chipotle Mexican Grill. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Globe and Mail
an hour ago
- Globe and Mail
Perma Bull and Wall Street Strategist Tom Lee Is Betting $250 Million On This Cryptocurrency (Hint: Not Bitcoin)
Given Strategy 's (formerly MicroStrategy) success as a Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) treasury company, many other companies are now following in its footsteps. For those unaware, Strategy, formerly a business intelligence company founded by Michael Saylor, who remains the company's executive chairman, began using corporate capital to buy Bitcoin in 2020. The stock has rocketed since then, and eventually, Saylor and Strategy gained enough credibility to tap the capital markets for funding that it could then use to buy Bitcoin. This essentially made Strategy a leveraged play on Bitcoin. Where to invest $1,000 right now? Our analyst team just revealed what they believe are the 10 best stocks to buy right now. Continue » Recently, Bitmine Immersion Companies (NYSEMKT: BMNR), a Bitcoin mining company, just named the prolific Wall Street strategist Tom Lee of Fundstrat as its chairman. The company also announced a $250 million private placement, which it will use to purchase Ethereum (CRYPTO: ETH), the world's second-largest cryptocurrency by market value. Is it Ethereum's time? Since Donald Trump won the presidential election last November, several of the largest cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin and XRP, have done quite well. Ethereum, not so much. Bitcoin Price data by YCharts It's hard to pinpoint exactly why Ethereum has not shared in the gains, but perhaps a better explanation is that Bitcoin and XRP have simply enjoyed more catalysts. Bitcoin has benefited from being viewed as a form of digital gold, while XRP has surged as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) ended its long-standing lawsuit against Ripple, the company behind XRP, and due to the possible launch of spot-XRP exchange-traded funds (ETFs). The underperformance has opened the door for investors who feel like Ethereum is being unjustly left behind, Lee being one of them. Not only has Lee become a well-known contributor on CNBC, but he's made some prescient calls in recent years on the price of the broader market, as well as Bitcoin. Lee is typically bullish and nailed bull market calls in 2023 and 2024. Lee has previously said he thinks the broader benchmark S&P 500 could hit 15,000 by 2030 (the index now trades at about 6,200). He's also quite bullish on Ethereum as the crypto and financial sectors become more integrated, as he recently said on CNBC: The financial services industry and crypto are converging and it really started with stablecoins, which is the ChatGPT of crypto because it's viral adoption by consumers, business banks and now even Visa. Underneath the stablecoin industry is Ethereum -- that is really the backbone and architecture of stablecoins so it's important to create a project that accumulates Ethereum to essentially protect and have some influence on the network. As a reminder, stablecoins are digital assets pegged to a currency or commodity. They are intended to take advantage of the technology behind the blockchain while leaving behind the volatility associated with cryptocurrencies. Many believe they could be extremely helpful for those without access to the banking system because you can use them to transfer money anywhere with internet access. Lee thinks banks could use Ethereum's proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus mechanism to secure stablecoin issuances in the future. PoS involves selecting validators based on the number of Ether tokens users have to confirm transactions and mint new blocks. In a way, Ethereum is already a core part of the plumbing of the burgeoning stablecoin network. That's because it's one of the most commonly used blockchain networks in the U.S. Circle's USDC, the second-largest stablecoin, with a market cap of about $61 billion, is an ERC-20 token, meaning it was initially created on Ethereum's blockchain. Lee also noted that more than 30% of fees generated on Ethereum are from stablecoins. Is Ethereum about to go on a Bitcoin-like run? Part of Lee and Bitmine's bet on Ethereum has to do with the stablecoin market. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has already said he thinks stablecoins could go from a $250 billion market today to $2 trillion. If that happens, Lee thinks Ethereum's network is likely to benefit immensely because of all the network fees, which will perhaps make Ethereum more ubiquitous. Interestingly, since the news of Tom Lee joining as chairman and the $250 million private placement, Bitmine's stock has soared more than 1,300% (as of July 1), although Ethereum's price hasn't moved much. Remember, cryptocurrencies are difficult to value because they don't generate earnings like a company. I've been surprised that Ethereum's price has stayed so muted while Bitcoin has soared. As a cryptocurrency, Ethereum certainly has one of the best use cases due to all of the activity on its network from decentralized applications and its proof-of-staking concept, so I think it could be due for a run at some point. Should you invest $1,000 in Ethereum right now? Before you buy stock in Ethereum, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Ethereum wasn't one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you'd have $697,627!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you'd have $939,655!* Now, it's worth noting Stock Advisor 's total average return is1,045% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to178%for the S&P 500. Don't miss out on the latest top 10 list, available when you join Stock Advisor. See the 10 stocks » *Stock Advisor returns as of June 30, 2025
