Edited By
Tomoko Sato

A landmark agreement has shaken the crypto world as the European Payments Initiative (EPI) and EuroPA Alliance establish a pan-European payment network. This initiative will serve 130 million users across 13 countries, distancing itself from American financial systems.
The new payment system, centered on the Wero wallet, marks a significant shift in European finance. As it rolls out ahead of the anticipated digital euro in 2026, the statement is clear: Europe is choosing to operate independently from U.S.-based networks.
Comments from crypto proponents suggest that Ripple is already making strides in the global arena. A forum user emphasized, "Ripple is in 55 countries, building an infrastructure that is behemoth." This highlights increasing competition faced by XRP as Europe aligns its payment future with local solutions rather than American alternatives.
Interestingly, some users dismiss the connection between this shift and American politics. One user noted, "This has been in the works for ten years. It has nothing to do with Orange Man Bad." Others acknowledged that while conflicts with the U.S. might be convenient to cite, the foundational aspects of the digital euro have been long underway.
"If they had a system ready to operable in 2026, you can guarantee theyβve been developing it way before Trump."
Yet, the shift to local infrastructures raises concerns for XRP's adoption. Comments highlighted that digital fiat systems cater primarily to retail rather than institutional needs. One remarked, "Digital fiat payments systems are designed for retail users, this wonβt affect XRP."
π A new payment network for 130 million users launched in Europe.
π° "Ripple is building an infrastructure that is behemoth," claim supporters.
βοΈ Digital payment developments have been in progress long before recent political shifts.
As the landscape evolves, European countries appear focused on fostering their digital economies without dependence on American platforms. Will this decision leave XRP and other American crypto assets behind? Only time will tell.
There's a strong chance that XRP may struggle to maintain its foothold in the European market as local digital payment solutions become more prevalent. Experts estimate that transactions through European platforms could rise by 30% in the coming years, as the region prioritizes its financial independence. The move to localized systems may lead to a gradual but steady decline in XRP's acceptance among European businesses and consumers, particularly if institutions perceive these new networks as more reliable or fitting their needs. Additionally, an increase in regulatory scrutiny on American crypto assets could cause further hesitation among investors.
Drawing from unexpected historical precedents, consider the transition from horses to automobiles in the early 20th century. Just as horse-drawn carriages faced a swift decline when mass production of cars took off, XRP might similarly find its relevance challenged by innovative local technologies. The quick shift in transportation back then caught many off guard, leading to significant economic and social changes. Here, the reluctance of the old guard to adapt effectively mirrors what we could witness with XRP versus emerging European systems. Just as the world embraced new capabilities, the adoption of robust, homegrown payment networks may dictate the future of crypto transactions far beyond traditional frameworks.