Ripple Founder Linked to 2.7 Billion Untouched XRP

A blockchain researcher, ZachXBT, has dropped a bombshell: dormant XRP wallets linked to Ripple co-founder Chris Larsen are holding 2.7 billion XRP, valued at $7.18 billion at a rate of $2.60. After six to seven years of silence, these wallets suddenly came to life in January 2025, with transactions of over $109 million to exchanges like Coinbase, Bitstamp, and Bybit. What does this mean for XRP and the market?

ZachXBT revealed that these inactive wallets did not remain quiet for long. In January 2025, $109 million in XRP flowed to prominent exchanges, sparking speculation. Some wonder if Larsen lost access to these funds and recently recovered, while others think they changed ownership as early as 2013. The researcher himself doubts whether Larsen still has full control – a mystery that keeps the crypto community in suspense.

Larsen’s history adds fuel to the fire

This movement follows earlier moves: in September 2024, Larsen moved 50 million XRP ($115 million at the time), partly liquidated, and in 2025 he sent another 80 million XRP to exchanges, of which $60.5 million in one fell swoop on January 16.

1. Larsen’s history indeed adds fuel to the fire. His September 2020 transfer to NYDIG was explained as a “security measure”, but the recent $109 million towards exchanges raises doubts. Is this portfolio management, a planned sale, or something bigger? ZachXBT’s discovery that 2.7 billion XRP ($7.18 billion) is still in these wallets keeps the suspense high. Some link it to Trump’s reserve plan, others see a personal cash-out after years of silence.

What now for XRP?

For now, XRP is a hot topic. Larsen’s moves, Trump’s plans, and market chaos make this a story to follow. Will this be a dip to buy, or a harbinger of more pain? One thing is certain: 2.7 billion XRP in motion keeps everyone on their toes – and noisy. We will keep a close eye on the news!