Quick Takeaways
- Ripple launches OTC spot prime brokerage services for US institutional clients.
- The move follows Ripple’s $1.25 billion acquisition of crypto broker Hidden Road.
- The expansion positions Ripple as a multi-asset prime broker in digital markets.
Ripple Expands Into Prime Brokerage Services
Blockchain payment platform Ripple has officially entered the crypto prime brokerage market, setting up OTC post-trading services for institutional clients in the United States.
The announcement on Monday coincides with the opening of Ripple’s annual Swell conference in New York City, signaling the company’s continued expansion into institutional finance.
Launch Builds on Hidden Road Acquisition
Ripple’s novel service follows its October acquisition of Hidden Road, a crypto-friendly select broker, as part of a $1. 25 billion deal initially revealed in April.
In a press statement, Ripple said the launch enables U.S.-established institutional clients to accomplish over-the-counter (OTC) patch transactions across multiple digital assets.
“The new OTC spot feature adds to our existing derivatives services,” said Michael Higgins, Ripple Prime’s international CEO.
He added that the expansion allows Ripple to provide a comprehensive multi-asset trading platform tailored to institutional needs.
Comprehensive Offering for Institutional Traders
With Hidden Road’s infrastructure, Ripple can now act as a full-service prime broker, offering cross-margin OTC spot trading, swaps, and CME futures and options.
The move strengthens Ripple’s position in the institutional crypto trading sector, allowing it to compete with established players like Galaxy Digital and Coinbase Prime.
Announcing it during Ripple’s Swell conference shows the company’s push to reclaim its spot in digital finance despite US regulatory hurdles.
According to Nansen data, XRP’s price fell about 5% in the past 24 hours, from $2.50 to $2.37, reflecting muted short-term market reaction.
Ripple’s Ongoing Political and Policy Influence
Ripple goes on to maintain a strong presence in US crypto policy circles. CEO Brad Garlinghouse and other executives have developed secretive ties with Washington policymakers.
In October, a Ripple voice attended a White House fundraising event supporting a redevelopment project proposed by President Donald Trump.
Ripple isn’t just backing Fairshake, it’s also supporting pro-crypto candidates through its own PAC. The move highlights Ripple’s push to grow its market presence while shaping US crypto policy ahead of 2026 reforms.
