Ripple Brad Garlinghouse WEF 2026: The High-Stakes Clash Over Monetary Sovereignty

Handshakes were exchanged, but the tension was palpable. At the 2026 World Economic Forum (WEF), a 'spirited' debate broke out between crypto's biggest advocates and central bank hawks. Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse described the panel as a fierce tug-of-war over the future of the global financial system.

Ripple Brad Garlinghouse WEF 2026: Defending the Crypto Frontier

According to reports from the scene, Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong joined Brad Garlinghouse in a robust defense of Bitcoin and stablecoins. They argued that these digital assets aren't just speculative tools but essential infrastructure for a more inclusive and efficient economy. Armstrong reportedly emphasized that decentralized finance is no longer a fringe experiment but a legitimate competitor to legacy banking.

Regulators Fire Back on Financial Stability

The reception from central bankers was frosty. Francois Villeroy de Galhau, Governor of the Bank of France, issued a stern warning against the erosion of monetary sovereignty. He stated that the rise of private digital currencies poses significant threats to financial stability and the ability of nations to manage their own economies. It's clear that the establishment isn't ready to cede control without a fight.