- Ripple, the blockchain payments firm, has obtained a full license from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) to operate as a major payments institution.
- Ripple’s Asia Pacific headquarters have been in Singapore since 2017, emphasizing its significance to the company’s global operations.
- Over 90% of Ripple’s activity occurs outside the United States, with a particular focus on expanding adoption in the Asia-Pacific region.
Blockchain payments firm Ripple announced Tuesday it has received a full license to operate as a major payments institution from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). The approval allows Ripple to continue local operations after receiving initial in-principle approval in June.
In a statement, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse said the full license demonstrates Singapore’s balance in fostering innovation while ensuring responsible growth. Ripple’s Asia Pacific headquarters have been located in Singapore since 2017, with Garlinghouse calling the country pivotal to the company’s global business.
With over 90% of its activity outside the United States, Ripple will maintain a priority focus on expanding adoption in the Asia-Pacific region. The company joins 14 other cryptocurrency firms holding MAS digital payments licenses, including Coinbase, Independent Reserve, and Blockchain.com.
Ripple receives regulatory clearance in Singapore
The license provides Ripple with the regulatory clearance to continue providing digital asset payment services under Singapore’s oversight framework. Approval under the central bank’s strict criteria represents a notable vote of confidence.
Singapore has emerged as a leading hub for fintech innovation, attracting investment and talent while developing clear licensing regimes. Ripple’s ability to meet stringent standards highlights its maturation capabilities as adoption spreads.
Elsewhere, Ripple also scored a procedural legal victory Tuesday after a U.S. judge denied the SEC permission to appeal a recent ruling in their ongoing lawsuit. The positive regulatory developments provided a double boost to Ripple’s outlook.
While headwinds remain in the U.S., Ripple has looked abroad to friendly jurisdictions like Singapore to drive growth. But eventually, earning regulatory clarity in major markets will be imperative to reaching its full potential.
For now, securing licenses and passing compliance hurdles represent incremental but meaningful progress. As the landscape evolves, Ripple continues systematically building its compliant foundations.
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