Fed Opens Doors to Crypto: 'Limited Access Master Account' Plan Boosts Ripple's XRP Momentum in 2025

The U.S. Federal Reserve is taking a bold step toward embracing cryptocurrency innovation, proposing a “limited access master account”—or “skinny master account”—that could grant stablecoin issuers and fintech firms direct entry to the Fed’s payment rails without full banking partnerships. Announced by Fed Governor Christopher Waller at the Payments Innovation Conference on October 21, 2025, this framework targets compliant entities like Ripple and Anchorage, allowing them to process payments efficiently while managing systemic risks. Waller emphasized: “Payment innovation moves fast, and the Federal Reserve needs to keep up.” This “skinny” version skips advanced services like borrowing but streamlines access, potentially revolutionizing cross-border settlements in decentralized finance (DeFi), where TVL exceeds $150 billion.

Ripple’s Strategic Positioning: OCC Bank Charter and Fed Alignment

Ripple, a leader in blockchain payments, has applied to the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) for a national bank charter, mirroring Circle’s USDC model. This would enable Ripple to operate as a regulated entity, enhancing its RLUSD stablecoin and XRP ecosystem. Coinbase’s parallel pursuit of licensing signals broader convergence. The Fed’s proposal explicitly supports such innovations, stating it “supports payment innovation while managing systemic risks.” For Ripple, direct Fed access means integrating XRP liquidity into U.S. networks, slashing reliance on intermediaries and boosting efficiency for remittances and enterprise finance. Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse hailed it as a “game-changer,” noting it aligns with post-SEC clarity.

XRP, trading at $2.40 (up 5% daily), has shown resilience amid BTC’s $107,556 stagnation. The token’s $2.90 price and 1,500 TPS capability make it ideal for high-volume settlements. The Fed’s openness could validate XRP’s compliance, accelerating stablecoin integration.

XRP Price Insights: Rebound from $2.26 to $2.53 Resistance

XRP has rebounded from $2.26 support, attempting to reclaim $2.53 for two days. If BTC holds $110,500, XRP could target $2.65-$2.77, per technical analysis. Bitcoin’s recovery is key; sustaining above $110,500 signals strength, potentially lifting XRP with it. Analysts forecast $3.00-$3.51 by November on Fed tailwinds, with $5.00 year-end if OCC approval follows.

2025 Implications: XRP as Fed’s Payment Ally

Waller’s plan reflects cautious innovation, allowing crypto firms like Ripple to operate within regulated frameworks. It could merge digital and traditional finance, with XRP’s RLUSD as a compliant instrument. For DeFi users, this enhances cross-border liquidity, reducing fees for RWAs and stablecoin trades.

In summary, the Fed’s crypto-friendly shift boosts Ripple’s XRP, signaling a bullish 2025 for blockchain payments.