The push to define clear rules for the US crypto market gained momentum this week as Brad Garlinghouse called on lawmakers to move forward with long-awaited legislation.
During an appearance before the U.S. Senate Banking Committee, the Ripple CEO urged senators to prioritize the Crypto Market Structure Bill, which is scheduled for a floor vote on Tuesday, January 27, 2026. Garlinghouse used the opportunity to position regulatory clarity as a strategic advantage rather than a constraint for the United States.
Key Takeaways
Ripple’s CEO urged US lawmakers to pass the Crypto Market Structure Bill
The bill is seen as key to making the US a global crypto hub
Ripple positioned itself as a compliance-first, global blockchain firm
He argued that passing the bill would establish the legal framework needed for the US to compete globally in digital assets. According to Garlinghouse, clear market structure rules would accelerate innovation, unlock efficiencies in financial transactions, and deliver tangible benefits for both consumers and businesses, while preventing crypto activity from migrating offshore.
Positioning the US as a global crypto hub
Garlinghouse framed the legislation as a turning point that could help position the United States as a global center for crypto and blockchain development. He said the absence of clear rules has slowed adoption and weakened US competitiveness, even as other regions move ahead with defined regulatory regimes.
Speaking as the head of Ripple, Garlinghouse highlighted the firm’s compliance-first approach and global footprint, pointing to roughly 900 employees operating across more than 50 offices worldwide. He presented Ripple as a mature industry participant capable of operating within structured regulatory environments.
Ripple’s role in the digital asset ecosystem
Garlinghouse also outlined Ripple’s long-term vision of building an “internet of value,” where money can move with the same speed and efficiency as information. He referenced the company’s work in cross-border payments, stablecoins, and digital asset custody as examples of blockchain technology being applied in real-world financial settings.
In addition, he emphasized Ripple’s role in helping financial institutions reduce friction, lower costs, and improve customer experiences through practical blockchain solutions rather than speculative use cases.
Reflecting on Ripple’s recent history, Garlinghouse pointed to the company’s legal battles with US regulators and its eventual court victories as milestones that helped clarify aspects of crypto regulation. He argued that these outcomes have already contributed to a more structured regulatory environment and could serve as a foundation for broader legislative progress.
Garlinghouse’s testimony underscores Ripple’s support for the Crypto Market Structure Bill, which many in the industry view as a critical step toward resolving long-standing regulatory uncertainty. If passed, the legislation could mark a shift from enforcement-driven oversight toward a clearer, rules-based framework for digital assets in the United States.
