Ripple’s Ambitious Move
In a strategic shake-up, Ripple has welcomed Amir Sarhangi as the new vice president of products, fresh off an impressive tenure at Google. As reported by Reuters, Sarhangi will now spearhead RippleNet, the company’s global payments network. He brings with him a wealth of experience, having joined Google in 2015 following its acquisition of Jibe Mobile, a startup he founded focusing on wireless communication systems.
The Future of Messaging
Not one to shy away from groundbreaking technology, Sarhangi’s expertise lies in RCS—or Rich Communication Services. This promising tech is viewed as a better alternative to the age-old SMS method, allowing users to send media and commercial messages more seamlessly. Major players in tech, including Apple and Samsung, have embraced RCS, marking a significant shift in how we communicate.
Ripple’s Revenue Surge
But it’s not just personnel changes making waves in Ripple’s world; the company’s financial sails are also catching some fair weather. Ripple reported a remarkable doubling of revenues in Q3 2018 compared to Q2, with token sales soaring from $73.53 million to an eye-popping $163.33 million. Talk about a financial upgrade!
Lobbying for Crypto
As Ripple continues to innovate, it isn’t solely focused on product enhancement but also on navigating the tricky waters of regulation. In late September, the company formed a coalition of crypto startups aiming to influence lawmakers and gain favorable regulatory attention. Through a partnership with Klein/Johnson Group, Ripple hopes to communicate the industry’s need for supportive regulatory frameworks.
Other Industry Moves
The excitement in the crypto world doesn’t stop with Ripple. Recently, Coinbase expanded its board of directors with a member from Charles Schwab Corporation, while Gemini got a boost with the addition of Jeanine Hightower-Sellitto, former COO of a major U.S. stock exchange. That’s right; everyone’s making moves in this fast-paced game of crypto chess!