SBI Holdings’ Blockchain Bond Reveals XRP Ambitions
SBI Holdings’ issuance of a 10 billion yen blockchain bond earlier this year may reflect more about Japan’s aspirations for XRP than mere price forecasts.
The insights shared by cryptocurrency commentator Stella Rippler have reignited discussions regarding XRP’s future.
SBI’s Long-Term Relationship with Ripple
The Tokyo-based financial powerhouse issued a bond in February 2026, which offers investors returns in XRP. This marks the first instance of a significant Japanese financial institution doing something like this.
This initiative accompanies SBI’s plans to utilize Ripple’s RLUSD stablecoin through SBI-licensed exchanges in Japan, as well as a new collaboration with Asia Web3 Alliance Japan aimed at supporting startups that are developing financial tools on the XRP ledger.
SBI’s connection to Ripple is substantial. Since the establishment of SBI Ripple Asia in 2016, it has been Ripple’s biggest external shareholder. Over nearly a decade, this joint venture has focused on creating a cross-border payment network traversing Japan, South Korea, India, and the Philippines, emphasizing practical infrastructure rather than mere announcements.
“XRP is going to be very expensive.”
This isn’t just from David Schwartz but also from Yoshitaka Kitao, CEO of SBI Holdings, Japan’s leading financial company.
SBI holds a critical stake in Ripple, and Kitao’s declaration that “XRP is going to be very expensive” has garnered attention.
CEO’s Comments Draw Attention
Amid the ongoing discussions, Yoshitaka Kitao’s remarks have resurfaced in public discourse. He asserted that XRP is “going to be very expensive,” and noted the current legal issues between Ripple and US regulators. He stated that a favorable court ruling for Ripple could lead to a notable increase in XRP’s price.
“If a decision is made and Ripple’s XRP is recognized as a coin, I think it will come with a big price tag,” Kitao commented. “If the verdict is positive, that would be fantastic.” His statements have circulated widely in crypto circles on social media, drawing attention due to his position within one of Japan’s largest financial service groups, which has direct stakes in Ripple.
Kitao seems to anticipate a court ruling within weeks, based on circulating reports, though a confirmed trial date has yet to surface.
What is significant about Kitao’s comments is the influence SBI holds in Ripple’s narrative. This is not just speculative support from the sidelines. For almost ten years, SBI has invested real resources, products, and institutional backing into XRP.
The bond issued in February, valued at around $64 million, showcases that SBI remains committed. By utilizing XRP as a direct incentive for investors, it is decisively strengthening its position in a landscape where achieving regulatory approval is challenging.
