Crypto Market Recap: Coinbase Makes TIME 100 List, Buterin Unveils New ID Tech, XRP Rallies on SEC Update

1. Coinbase Named Among TIME's 100 Most Influential Companies for 2025

Cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase has been recognized by TIME magazine as one of the 100 Most Influential Companies of 2025, underscoring its growing impact on the global financial landscape.

Labelled as a "Disruptor", TIME praised Coinbase for its policy advocacy and pioneering role in integrating crypto with traditional financial markets. Notably, the company became the first crypto stock added to the S&P 500 index in May, cementing its influence in both Wall Street and Washington.

"If industry-friendly bills are passed, Coinbase stands to become an even bigger hub for US crypto activity," TIME noted.

This recognition signals not only Coinbase’s rising stature but also the increasing legitimacy of the broader crypto sector in mainstream finance.

Coinbase’s stock is once again approaching its all-time high following the Senate voting to pass the GENIUS stablecoin bill. Source: Yahoo Finance

2. Vitalik Buterin Proposes 'Pluralistic Identity' to Advance Digital Privacy

Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has introduced a novel approach to digital identity called “pluralistic identity,” aiming to strike a balance between security, privacy, and user freedom in the Web3 ecosystem.

In a blog post released Sunday, Buterin emphasized the benefits and dangers of zero-knowledge (ZK) proof-based IDs, which allow users to verify their identity without revealing personal information. While ZK systems like World ID, Taiwan’s digital ID, and various EU initiatives are gaining traction, Buterin cautions that over-reliance on single ID enforcement could compromise pseudonymity and increase coercion risks.

"ZK-wrapping solves a lot of important problems,” Buterin wrote. “But it still carries serious risks if implemented rigidly."

His pluralistic approach promotes flexibility, allowing users to maintain multiple digital identities across platforms — a move that could reshape digital identity infrastructure in the Web3 era.

Source: Buterin

3. XRP Jumps 3% as Ripple Ends Legal Standoff With SEC

XRP, the cryptocurrency associated with Ripple Labs, saw a 3.36% price surge to $2.18 following a significant legal update from the company’s CEO, Brad Garlinghouse.

In a Friday post on X (formerly Twitter), Garlinghouse confirmed that Ripple will withdraw its cross-appeal against the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). He also stated that the SEC is expected to drop its appeal as well, potentially bringing the long-standing legal dispute to a close.

“We’re closing this chapter once and for all and focusing on what’s most important – building the Internet of Value. Lock in,” Garlinghouse wrote.

The announcement was swiftly reflected in XRP’s price, signaling renewed investor confidence and the possibility of regulatory clarity ahead.

Conclusion: A Big Day for Crypto Innovation and Legitimacy

Today’s updates highlight major strides in the crypto space — from institutional recognition to cutting-edge tech developments and legal breakthroughs. Coinbase’s inclusion in TIME’s influential list, Buterin’s vision for privacy-respecting digital IDs, and Ripple’s potential legal closure all reflect a maturing industry preparing for its next growth phase.

Related : Vitalik Buterin Backs 'Pluralistic IDs' to Defend Privacy in Digital Identity