The article discusses the XRP blockchain and its centralization caveats, despite the regulatory threat to Ripple receding. The XRP Ledger (XRPL) is criticized for being too centralized due to a smaller number of validators compared to other blockchains. Ripple Labs, the organization behind XRPL, aims to make improvements to the existing financial system rather than disrupt it like Bitcoin. The article also mentions the initial distribution of XRP tokens and the struggle for adoption outside of certain use cases. XRPL lacks programmable smart contracts, but there are plans to introduce hooks for executing code on specific transactions. Despite its checkered reputation, Ripple has gained new allies and there is a demand for institution-friendly blockchain products.
AI Sentiment: Neutral
