Ripple CEO breaks the silence on the confusion between XRP and stocks, criticizing Linqto's transactions.

Ripple's CEO Brad Garlinghouse addressed the growing confusion among investors regarding the difference between XRP and Ripple stock. In a statement shared via X, he clarified that XRP is a digital asset, while Ripple stock represents ownership in the company and is not related to XRP in any way. Investors' misunderstandings are believed to have increased after Linqto sold Ripple shares on its platform. Most buyers have the misconception that they are buying shares directly from Ripple. Garlinghouse clarified that Ripple is not involved in this type of transaction and has no official information with Linqto. He confirmed that Linqto purchased approximately 4.7 million shares of Ripple through secondary market transactions with initial investors. Ripple does not conduct or authorize such transactions. The company only does this to ensure that Linqto actually has the shares they claim, but Garlinghouse made it clear that this is not an endorsement. Ripple separates from Linqto's stock sale activities Due to increasing concerns and brand risks, Ripple has halted all secondary stock transactions related to Linqto by the end of 2024. This decision was made to prevent further confusion among retail investors and to protect Ripple's public image. Garlinghouse also condemned how Linqto handled the sales process, stating that Ripple does not know how this platform defines stocks or manages customer funds. He asserted that Ripple has never participated in any transactions with Linqto and has not been involved in any funding rounds that included this company. He further stated that Ripple does not know how Linqto intends to address the issues that its customers are facing. Although Ripple's stock has increased in value over time, Garlinghouse warned those interested in investing in this company that any profits made through Linqto are beyond Ripple's control. Conclusion Garlinghouse's statement highlights Ripple's firm stance on separating itself from Linqto's operations. The company remains committed to clarifying the distinction between the digital asset XRP and the privately held shares owned by the company to avoid further confusion.