Ripple Obtains Principle Approval for Major Payments Institution License in Singapore

Ripple, a leading blockchain payments company, has achieved an important milestone by obtaining in-principle approval for a Primary Payments Institution License from the Monetary Authority of Singapore. This license will empower Ripple’s local subsidiary to offer digital payment token products and services regulated in Singapore. The agreement not only allows companies to expand their use of On-Demand Liquidity services, but also highlights Singapore’s commitment to establishing clear regulations for digital assets.

Ripple Major Payments Institution License:

Ripple has successfully obtained in-principle approval for a Primary Payments Institution License from the Monetary Authority of Singapore. This significant development enables the company’s local subsidiary to provide a regulated digital payment token solution in Singapore. Ripple plans to leverage this license to further increase adoption of its crypto-enabled Liquidity On-Demand service, which facilitates instant cross-border transactions using XRP as a bridge currency.

Recognition of Singapore’s Regulatory Framework:

Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse acknowledged Singapore’s role as a global leader in setting clear regulatory guidelines for digital assets. He praised the country for recognizing the innovation and usefulness of cryptocurrencies in the real world and their potential benefits to the global financial system. Ripple’s Chief Legal Officer, Stu Alderoty, highlighted the importance of Singapore’s early leadership in developing a comprehensive taxonomy and licensing framework for the crypto industry.

Global Expansion and Regulatory Clarity:

Ripple’s success in obtaining a Major Payments Institution License reflects the broader trend of countries such as the UK, United Arab Emirates and the European Union making strides in establishing regulatory frameworks for the crypto sector. Alderoty emphasized that Ripple does most of its business in this jurisdiction because of the clarity of its regulations. He expressed concern that the lack of forward-looking regulations in the United States was stifling innovation and causing the country to fall behind in the crypto industry.

Regulatory Challenges and Prospects:

While some argue that regulatory uncertainty stifles innovation in the United States, others, including SEC Chair Gary Gensler, believe that existing regulations are sufficient to regulate the crypto market. Alderoty suggested that the industry’s growth is likely to occur outside the United States, as the country lacks a comprehensive and enforceable regulatory framework. He emphasized that the clarity of regulations does not mean a lack of regulations but rather a supportive environment that allows the industry to thrive.

Ripple’s in-principle approval of a Prime Payments Institution License in Singapore is an important milestone for the company and the wider crypto industry. This move not only allows Ripple to expand its services, but also highlights Singapore’s commitment to driving innovation while setting clear regulatory guidelines. As the global landscape evolves, regulatory clarity will play an important role in shaping the future of the crypto industry.