Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse expressed his support for the recent leadership changes in U.S. cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence policy. He praised the appointment of David Sacks as the White House’s new “AI and Crypto Czar” and shared his optimism about the positive impact this could have on innovation.
David Sacks Takes Charge as Crypto Czar
The U.S. administration selected David Sacks, a former PayPal executive and venture capitalist, to lead its artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency policy. Sacks, known for his close ties to Elon Musk, reportedly advised Musk during his $44 billion acquisition of Twitter, now X
As the new leader of the Council of Advisors for Science and Technology, Sacks will shape the administration’s AI and cryptocurrency policy. Brad Garlinghouse congratulated Sacks on his new role and described him as someone who “understands tech inside and out.” He expressed confidence that Sacks would push forward pro-innovation policies in both AI and cryptocurrency.
Ripple CEO Praises SEC Leadership Change
In addition to the appointment of Sacks, Garlinghouse welcomed the SEC’s leadership change. Gary Gensler, the current chairman, announced his resignation in November and will step down in January 2025. The U.S. administration appointed Paul Atkins, a former SEC Commissioner, to succeed Gensler.
Garlinghouse described Atkins as an “outstanding choice,” signalling his approval of this decision. He also highlighted the potential for Atkins to adopt a more balanced regulatory approach compared to Gensler, who was known for his strict stance on cryptocurrency
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Elon Musk’s Role and Potential Collaboration with Sacks
The new appointments may open doors for collaboration between Sacks and Musk. Musk, who leads xAI and runs the chatbot Grok on X, also holds a leadership role in the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Sacks’ AI and cryptocurrency policy leadership could align with Musk’s efforts to foster joint initiatives in these fields.
Ripple CEO Anticipates Progress for Crypto Policies
Garlinghouse emphasized the potential of these leadership changes to advance innovation in the U.S. He referred to the combination of Sacks and Atkins as a “dream team” and expressed hope for a more supportive environment for blockchain and cryptocurrency.
With Sacks and Atkins taking on key roles, the cryptocurrency community is optimistic about the direction of future policies. Garlinghouse remains confident that these developments will help Ripple and the broader tech ecosystem thrive.
