Ripple’s anticipated IPO has resurfaced as a topic of discussion following comments from SBI Holdings CEO Yoshitaka Kitao, who suggested the company might take up to 12 years to go public. The supporting evidence appears in the cited X post.
This extended timeline has sparked debate within the XRP investor community, where expectations for a near-term IPO have long fueled market optimism.
Kitao revealed in a recent YouTube interview that SBI Holdings remains committed to Ripple, prepared to invest between $626 million and $1.25 billion in Ripple Labs once it becomes publicly listed.
However, the prospect of a decade-plus wait has tempered enthusiasm among some investors who view the IPO as a key catalyst for XRP’s price growth.
Investor Reactions to a Prolonged IPO Horizon
The possibility of a 12-year wait before Ripple’s public offering has created a split in sentiment among XRP holders. Some worry that a delayed IPO could diminish the immediate and mid-term excitement that currently supports XRP’s market value.
For these investors, the IPO represents a major institutional milestone that could significantly boost demand and price.
Conversely, other supporters interpret the long timeline as a sign of Ripple’s financial independence and stability. They argue that the company’s ability to sustain growth without rushing into public markets reflects strong fundamentals.
This view is bolstered by Ripple’s robust performance in private secondary markets, indicating ongoing investor confidence.
Ripple’s Private Market Performance and Valuation
Despite the extended IPO timeline, Ripple Labs shares have experienced substantial gains in private trading. The stock has surged 376% to reach $136.90, reflecting sustained demand and positive sentiment among private investors.
This rally was partly driven by Ripple’s $750 million share buyback program earlier this year, which pushed the company’s valuation to approximately $50 billion.
This valuation marks a 25% increase compared to the funding round in November that included major investors like Citadel and Pantera Capital. Such figures underscore that, while the IPO may be distant, Ripple’s market value and investor trust remain strong.
Implications for XRP and Market Outlook
The delay in Ripple’s IPO could reduce short-term excitement around XRP, as the market often prices in anticipated institutional events. However, the company’s high valuation and financial health may continue to support XRP’s ecosystem over the long term.
The key question for investors is whether Ripple’s IPO timeline or its ongoing corporate strength will have a greater influence on XRP’s price trajectory.
In summary, while the 12-year IPO horizon may temper immediate speculation, Ripple’s solid fundamentals and investor backing suggest a resilient outlook for both the company and XRP holders.
