Blockchain firm supports National Cryptocurrency Association as CEO prepares for White House summit
Blockchain payments firm Ripple Labs has announced its involvement in launching the National Cryptocurrency Association (NCA), a nonprofit organisation aimed at educating the public on how cryptocurrency benefits individuals and businesses.
Stuart Alderoty, Ripple’s chief legal officer, revealed in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on 5 March that he would serve as the president of the newly formed organisation while continuing his role at Ripple. CEO Brad Garlinghouse confirmed the company’s financial backing with a $50 million grant.
Advancing Crypto Awareness
According to the NCA’s website, the association seeks to help Americans understand cryptocurrency adoption by sharing real-world use cases. While it has not explicitly stated political ambitions, it has pledged to keep the public informed about industry developments.
Ripple has previously contributed $45 million to the political action committee Fairshake, which is focused on influencing voters in the 2024 US election cycle. Alderoty also personally donated $300,000 to a committee supporting former President Donald Trump. In January, both he and Garlinghouse met Trump at his Mar-a-Lago residence and attended inauguration events in Washington, DC, as official guests.
Ripple CLO on the launch of a crypto education-focused nonprofit. Source: Stuart Alderoty
The NCA is registered in the US as a 501(c)(4) organisation, a legal classification that allows it to receive unlimited corporate and personal donations. According to legal experts at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom, such entities often engage in lobbying and political activities without being required to disclose their donors.
Ripple’s Legal Battle with the SEC Continues
The launch of the NCA comes as the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) under Trump moves to conclude long-running investigations and enforcement actions against several cryptocurrency firms. The regulator has dropped lawsuits against Coinbase, Cumberland DRW, and Consensys. However, it has yet to withdraw its appeal against Ripple following a $125 million judgment against the company.
Despite the legal battle, Ripple maintains strong ties with US policymakers. Garlinghouse has confirmed his attendance at a crypto summit at the White House on 7 March. In a controversial move, the US government has also announced plans to include Ripple’s XRP token in a potential national cryptocurrency stockpile, a proposal that has raised legal concerns among industry experts.
Alderoty has not yet responded to requests for comment on the latest developments.
