Ripple CEO Acknowledges Dogecoin's Role in Crypto Ecosystem

Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse has shifted his stance on Dogecoin (DOGE), acknowledging its lasting presence in the cryptocurrency space. Speaking at the Apex 2025 event, Garlinghouse admitted he was once critical of the meme-based token, believing it didn’t reflect positively on the broader blockchain industry. However, he now concedes that Dogecoin "is not going anywhere" and recognizes its place within the digital asset ecosystem.

Garlinghouse noted, "It's part of the ecosystem. It plays a role," highlighting how even meme coins like DOGE have found staying power in the market. Despite this recognition, he remains cautious about the influence of such tokens. He expressed concerns that the popularity of meme coins could overshadow serious crypto projects and hinder developers who are focused on building practical, utility-driven blockchain applications.

Importantly, Garlinghouse clarified that he has never personally invested in any meme coins, including Dogecoin, reinforcing his commitment to utility-first cryptocurrencies like XRP. His remarks come at a time when DOGE continues to draw attention from retail investors, thanks to its community support and cultural relevance.

This evolving perspective from one of the industry's most prominent figures reflects the complex relationship between traditional blockchain development and the meme coin phenomenon. While Garlinghouse remains focused on real-world adoption and regulatory progress, he acknowledges that Dogecoin’s enduring presence underscores the broader diversification and unpredictability of the crypto market.

As meme coins like DOGE remain popular, Garlinghouse’s comments suggest a growing recognition that all types of digital assets contribute to the evolving narrative of cryptocurrency, even if their long-term utility remains debated.