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Comparative Guide: How & Where to Buy XRP Around the World

Introduction

Buying XRP isn’t the same in every country. Some regions have embraced Ripple’s native token, while others still grapple with evolving crypto regulations. In July 2023 a U.S. federal court ruled that XRP sold on secondary exchanges is not a security, leading major platforms such as Coinbase and Kraken to relist the asset[1]. Exchanges like Gemini and Bitstamp also reopened trading for U.S. customers[2], and the ruling highlighted that Binance never delisted XRP on its global exchange, only on its U.S. affiliate[3]. Yet access still varies by jurisdiction, and fees and identity requirements can differ widely.

This guide provides a country‑by‑country walkthrough of how and where to buy XRP in 2025. You’ll learn which platforms operate in the USA, UK, Canada, Australia and India, how to choose between centralized exchanges and non‑custodial aggregators like Rubic, what kind of wallets to use, and how to minimize fees. It concludes with a comparison table and frequently asked questions to make your purchase journey smoother.

Internal links: Curious how XRP is evolving beyond payments? Our Top 5 Use Cases of XRP in 2025 covers tokenization, DeFi and more. You can also monitor price movements on our XRP Live Price & Market Data page and explore Swap XRP for Other Crypto Assets to diversify your holdings.

Internal links: Want to understand why XRP is more than just a payments token? Check our Top 5 Use Cases of XRP in 2025 for insights into tokenization, DeFi and identity features on the XRPL. If you’re looking for live market data, our XRP Live Price & Market Data page shows real‑time charts.

1. Buying XRP in the United States

Primary platforms

  • Coinbase – The largest U.S. exchange resumed XRP trading after the 2023 court ruling[1]. It offers bank transfers and card payments but requires full Know Your Customer (KYC) verification.
  • Kraken – Also relisted XRP for U.S. customers[4]. Kraken provides a wide range of fiat pairs and margin trading but enforces strict identity checks.
  • Bitstamp – A longstanding Ripple partner, Bitstamp reopened XRP trading for U.S. users in 2023[2]. Deposits can be made via bank transfer or cards, but KYC is mandatory.
  • Rubic (non‑custodial) – A cross‑chain aggregator that routes swaps through 360+ DEXs and bridges. U.S. users can convert tokens to XRP directly from their wallets without creating an account. Rubic does not charge protocol fees on trades under $100, making it cost‑effective for small purchases. (Since Rubic is a non‑custodial protocol, always confirm that you comply with your local regulations.)

Availability & regulations

  • Legal status: In July 2023, Judge Analisa Torres concluded that XRP is not a security when traded on secondary exchanges[5]. This led to widespread relisting; however, the SEC can still appeal, and state‑by‑state rules may vary. New York, for example, briefly restricted XRP trading before relisting it in 2024.
  • KYC requirements: All centralized platforms require identity verification. Rubic does not collect personal data because swaps occur directly on-chain.

Fee comparison & tips

  • Platform fees: Coinbase and Kraken charge a spread plus trading fees (0.16%–0.35% for makers/takers). Bitstamp fees are similar but may offer discounts for large volumes. U.S. card purchases can incur up to 4 % in additional charges.
  • Rubic’s advantage: For small swaps (<$100) there are no protocol fees, and the aggregator automatically compares rates across DEXs to find the most efficient path. You only pay network gas fees.
  • Savings tip: To avoid high fiat deposit fees, consider first buying a stablecoin (e.g., USDC) on a low‑fee exchange like Coinbase, then swap it to XRP via Rubic.

2. Buying XRP in the United Kingdom

Primary platforms

  • Binance – The global Binance exchange remains one of the largest marketplaces for XRP, although its U.K. operations have faced increased regulatory scrutiny. Binance still allows crypto‑to‑crypto swaps and card purchases for XRP. (Note: always check for the latest FCA guidance before registering.)
  • Kraken – Provides fiat on‑ramps for GBP deposits and lists XRP among its spot pairs. Identity verification is required.
  • Bitstamp – Offers GBP trading pairs and SEPA transfers for British users. It relaunched XRP trading after the U.S. ruling and operates under Luxembourg regulation.
  • Rubic (non‑custodial) – U.K. users can swap any supported token to XRP without sign‑ups. The aggregator leverages on‑chain liquidity on networks like Ethereum, BNB Chain and Solana, then bridges the transaction to the XRPL.

Availability & regulations

  • Legal status: The U.K.’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has not banned XRP but has tightened advertising and registration requirements for crypto businesses. Always choose FCA‑registered exchanges.
  • KYC requirements: Centralized exchanges require proof of identity and address. Rubic eliminates the need for KYC but still relies on your wallet’s compliance with on‑chain regulations.

Fee comparison & tips

  • Platform fees: Kraken charges around 0.16%–0.26% per trade; Binance’s maker/taker fees start at 0.10% but vary by volume. Bitstamp’s fees start at 0.30% and fall for high‑volume traders. Card purchases incur higher costs.
  • Rubic’s advantage: Swapping tokens you already hold (e.g., USDT or ETH) to XRP via Rubic avoids bank fees and high spreads. If you want to use British pounds, you can first buy a stablecoin on a local exchange and then use Rubic for the cross‑chain swap.

3. Buying XRP in Canada

Primary platforms

  • Kraken & Bitstamp – Both offer CAD deposit methods (via bank transfer or wire) and list XRP pairs. They are FinTRAC‑registered and follow Canadian anti‑money‑laundering regulations.
  • Coinberry / Newton – Canadian exchanges that list XRP with CAD pairs. These platforms require KYC and may have daily purchase limits.
  • Rubic (non‑custodial) – Canadian residents can swap USDC or other tokens to XRP using Rubic without opening an exchange account. This helps avoid bank transfer fees.

Availability & regulations

  • Canada views XRP as a commodity. Exchanges must register with provincial regulators and meet strict capital requirements. Because of this, some global platforms restrict onboarding Canadian customers.

Fee comparison & tips

  • Platform fees: Canadian exchanges often charge spreads of 1.5%–2% on XRP. Bank deposits and withdrawals can be free but card purchases are expensive. Kraken and Bitstamp offer lower trading fees but international wire transfers can add costs.
  • Rubic’s advantage: Swapping a stablecoin to XRP on-chain avoids wire fees and spreads. The aggregator’s low‑fee model makes small purchases cost‑effective.

4. Buying XRP in Australia

Primary platforms

  • Independent Reserve & CoinSpot – Local Australian exchanges that support XRP and accept AUD via PayID or bank transfer. They require full KYC and may have higher spreads on altcoins.
  • Binance – Its Australian branch previously offered AUD trading but has faced banking challenges. You can still trade XRP with crypto deposits, but fiat services may be restricted.
  • Rubic (non‑custodial) – Australians can swap tokens like USDT, USDC or ETH to XRP using Rubic’s aggregator. No account or fiat deposit is required; you only need a compatible wallet.

Availability & regulations

  • Australia treats digital assets as property for tax purposes. Exchanges must register with AUSTRAC and comply with anti‑money‑laundering rules. Banking partners may restrict direct fiat deposits to some platforms.

Fee comparison & tips

  • Platform fees: Independent Reserve charges ~0.5% per trade for low volumes; CoinSpot’s instant buy spread can be 1%–2%. Wire transfers may cost extra and card purchases are limited.
  • Rubic’s advantage: If you already hold crypto (e.g., BTC or ETH), swapping to XRP through Rubic avoids deposit fees and can provide better rates than local exchanges. For fiat, consider buying a stablecoin on an exchange with lower spreads and then swapping via Rubic.

5. Buying XRP in India

Primary platforms

  • WazirX & CoinDCX – Popular Indian exchanges that list XRP and support INR deposits through UPI or bank transfer. They require Aadhaar or PAN verification for KYC and may have withdrawal fees.
  • Bitbns / Giottus – Local platforms that support XRP and often offer promotional trading fees. Spreads can be higher during market volatility.
  • Rubic (non‑custodial) – Indian users can convert tokens like USDT or BUSD (on BNB Chain) to XRP without signing up. Since Rubic is non‑custodial, you bypass exchange limitations and KYC, but you must manage your own wallet security.

Availability & regulations

  • India taxes crypto gains at a flat 30 % with additional TDS (tax deducted at source). Banks have periodically restricted funding to crypto exchanges, causing fluctuating liquidity. Access to global exchanges may be limited, but domestic platforms remain operational.

Fee comparison & tips

  • Platform fees: Indian exchanges typically charge ~0.20% per trade, but spreads can widen during high demand. Deposits via UPI or bank transfer are usually free; card fees may be ~2%.
  • Rubic’s advantage: Swapping a stablecoin to XRP on-chain avoids bank restrictions and high spreads. Consider buying USDT on a local exchange, moving it to your wallet and using Rubic to swap into XRP at competitive rates.

6. Wallets & Storage: Hardware vs. Software

Choosing the right wallet is essential to keep your XRP safe, especially once you’ve acquired it. There are two broad categories:

  • Hardware wallets (e.g., Ledger Nano X, Trezor): These physical devices store your private keys offline, protecting them from online hacks. They are ideal for long‑term holders and large balances. Ledger notes that its hardware wallets store private keys and sign transactions offline, making them resistant to malware and theft[6] (general crypto security advice).
  • Software wallets (e.g., Xaman/XUMM, Trust Wallet, Exodus): Mobile or desktop applications that let you send and receive XRP quickly. They are convenient for everyday use but depend on your device’s security.

For maximum security, use a hardware wallet in conjunction with a software wallet for daily transactions. Always back up your recovery phrase and enable two‑factor authentication where possible.

7. Security Risks and Best Practices (2025)

Buying XRP isn’t just about finding the right platform — it’s also about protecting your coins after purchase. Recent security incidents underscore the need for vigilance:

  • Exchange hacks remain a threat. In 2024 alone, crypto hacks totalled $2.2 billion[7], and large custodial exchanges suffered major breaches. For example, Bybit lost about $1.5 billion when attackers drained its hot wallet in February 2025[8]. Hackers extracted a private key from Bybit’s hardware security module and moved funds across multiple chains, highlighting that even tier‑one platforms can be compromised[9]. Exchange wallets — especially hot wallets that stay online — are prime targets for attackers because weak server protections or stolen credentials can lead to rapid asset losses[10]. Cold wallets offer stronger protection but can still be vulnerable if smart‑contract logic or multisig implementations are flawed[11].
  • Don’t leave large balances on exchanges. Whether you use Coinbase, Binance, Kraken, Bitstamp, CoinDCX or WazirX, remember that centralized platforms are custodians of your keys. Insider breaches, poor endpoint security and smart‑contract flaws have led to massive losses[9]. Even regulated exchanges can be hacked, as seen with high‑profile thefts like Bybit and WazirX[11]. Withdraw your XRP to a personal wallet as soon as practical.
  • Combine hardware and software wallets. A hardware wallet (e.g., Ledger, Trezor) keeps your private keys offline and safe from malware. Use it alongside a reputable software wallet (e.g., Xaman/XUMM, Trust Wallet, Exodus) for day‑to‑day transactions. According to Webopedia, hot wallets are vulnerable to exploits, while cold wallets offer stronger protection when used correctly[10]. Back up your recovery phrases and use two‑factor authentication.
  • Consider non‑custodial swaps. Aggregators like Rubic allow you to swap tokens directly from your wallet without depositing funds on an exchange. Because Rubic routes trades across decentralized exchanges and bridges, your funds remain in your control throughout the transaction. This minimises custodial risk and is ideal for small or privacy‑focused purchases.
  • Stay informed. Monitor exchange announcements and security news. As of September 2025, none of the major exchanges discussed here have permanently shut down, but policies and security postures can change rapidly. Staying updated will help you react quickly if an exchange halts withdrawals or suffers a breach.

By following these practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of losing your XRP to theft or platform failures.

8. How to Find the Cheapest Way to Buy XRP

Buying XRP can become expensive if you aren’t careful about fees. Here are practical tips:

  1. Compare platforms: Fees vary widely between exchanges. Use centralised platforms for large fiat purchases and aggregators like Rubic for small crypto‑to‑crypto swaps. The Investopedia report noted that major U.S. exchanges relisted XRP after the court ruling[1]; however, spreads and card fees remain high.
  2. Use stablecoins: If your local exchange charges high fees for XRP, buy a stablecoin (USDC, USDT) and transfer it to your wallet. Then swap the stablecoin to XRP using Rubic’s aggregator. This method often results in lower overall costs.
  3. Avoid double conversion: Some platforms convert your fiat into BTC or ETH before buying XRP, leading to multiple spreads. Go straight from your currency or stablecoin into XRP whenever possible.
  4. Watch KYC and withdrawal limits: Centralized exchanges may freeze accounts or impose withdrawal caps during regulatory changes. Keeping your XRP in a non‑custodial wallet after purchase protects your access.

Swap directly: Ready to move your crypto into XRP (or vice versa) without touching a custodial exchange? Rubic makes it possible. Use the following links to start swapping:

9. Comparison Table: Platforms by Country

Below is a simplified overview of where you can buy XRP in 2025. Regulations change frequently, so always verify with the platform before signing up.

CountryPrimary ExchangesNon‑Custodial OptionNotes
USACoinbase, Kraken, BitstampRubicExchanges relisted XRP after court ruling[6]; KYC required
UKBinance, Kraken, BitstampRubicFCA‑regulated exchanges; card fees vary
CanadaKraken, Bitstamp, Coinberry, NewtonRubicFinTRAC regulation; bank wires expensive
AustraliaIndependent Reserve, CoinSpot, Binance (crypto only)RubicAUSTRAC registration; fiat on‑ramps limited
IndiaWazirX, CoinDCX, Bitbns, GiottusRubicHigh taxes; bank restrictions; non‑custodial swaps avoid fiat issues

Conclusion

Buying XRP in 2025 remains a dynamic process. In the United States, a favourable court ruling has enabled major exchanges like Coinbase and Kraken to resume trading[1]. Elsewhere, local regulations dictate which platforms operate, and fees can differ dramatically. Across all jurisdictions, non‑custodial aggregators such as Rubic provide a flexible second option—especially for small trades and those who value privacy and self‑custody.

To get started, determine which exchanges serve your country and compare their fees. Consider using a stablecoin as an intermediary and store your XRP in a secure wallet. And remember, you can always leverage Rubic’s cross‑chain aggregator to swap into XRP directly from your wallet without signing up for a new exchange.

External links: Read the original Investopedia analysis on crypto exchanges relisting XRP for details about the court ruling and platform responses. For more on XRP’s real‑world applications, check out Ripple’s page on the XRP Ledger. And if you’re curious about stablecoins on XRPL, see our Rubic guide to swapping stablecoins.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I buy XRP on Coinbase now?

Yes. After the 2023 court ruling that XRP is not a security in secondary markets, Coinbase resumed XRP trading for U.S. customers[1]. However, you must complete identity verification and may face higher fees on small purchases.

Which wallet should I use to store XRP?

For long‑term storage, use a hardware wallet like Ledger or Trezor. For day‑to‑day transactions, a software wallet such as Xaman (formerly XUMM), Trust Wallet or Exodus is convenient. Consider using both: a hardware wallet for secure storage and a software wallet for spending.

Why would I choose Rubic over a centralized exchange?

Rubic is non‑custodial, meaning you keep control of your keys and funds during the swap. It routes trades across multiple DEXs and bridges to find competitive rates and doesn’t charge protocol fees on trades below $100. This makes it ideal for small or privacy‑conscious purchases.

Are there any countries where XRP is banned?

Most countries allow XRP trading, but regulatory uncertainty persists. U.S. exchanges briefly delisted XRP during the SEC lawsuit. Always check your local regulations; some regions may restrict fiat on‑ramps or impose high taxes on crypto gains.

How can I get the best price for XRP?

Compare fees on multiple platforms, use stablecoins to avoid double conversions, and consider using a non‑custodial aggregator like Rubic for on‑chain swaps. Prices can vary by platform and region, so a little research goes a long way.

[1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] Crypto Exchanges Allow XRP Trading After Ripple Ruling

https://www.investopedia.com/crypto-exchanges-allow-xrp-trading-after-ripple-ruling-7561172

[7] [8] [9] [10] [11] 5 Biggest Wallet Hacks in History | Webopedia

https://www.webopedia.com/crypto/learn/biggest-crypto-wallet-hacks

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