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American Express has announced a major system upgrade that is currently causing delays in cross-border payments and wire transfers.
The move, aimed at aligning its infrastructure with a broader Federal Reserve update, has reignited speculation in crypto circles that Ripple’s blockchain-powered payment technology may soon be integrated into Amex’s systems.
The speculation is not new—American Express and Ripple previously collaborated on cross-border payment trials, and the recent infrastructure overhaul has reopened conversations about whether RippleNet or XRP could become part of the payments giant’s future plans.
Amex’s modernisation push follows crypto partnership
American Express has been making a series of sweeping changes, including a refresh on its Platinum cards in what it calls the “largest investment ever in a Card refresh.”
The update impacts both its US Consumer and Business Platinum Cards and includes enhanced spending flexibility and new reward structures.
While this overhaul is focused on customer-facing services, it coincides with significant backend changes to its payments network.
Earlier this month, Amex entered the crypto rewards space through a partnership with Coinbase.
The launch of the Coinbase One Card offers users up to 4% cashback in Bitcoin on purchases, while also providing access to Amex-style perks such as exclusive event invites.
Introducing the Coinbase One Card. Earn up to 4% bitcoin back on every purchase. Powered by @AmericanExpress network. Coming fall 2025.
This move into crypto payments is notable given American Express’ conservative history with digital assets. It marks a shift towards wider adoption of blockchain and digital currencies in traditional finance.
Ripple rumours resurface as delays persist
Although Amex has not officially confirmed any new collaboration with Ripple, crypto market commentators such as Versan, the founder of Black Swan Capitalist, highlighted the company’s history with Ripple and questioned whether XRP-powered solutions could be part of the new architecture.
#BREAKING: American Express issued a notice to clients regarding delays in cross-border payments and wire transfers, citing a “Federal Reserve System update” and a “wide system upgrade.” Payment infrastructure is being modernized, and American Express is a known Ripple partner.
In a recent post on X, Versan linked the payment delays, system upgrade, and Amex’s ongoing relationship with Ripple as “strategic alignment.”
RippleNet, Ripple’s flagship global payment network, is known for enabling instant and cost-efficient cross-border settlements.
American Express had previously tested Ripple’s blockchain in partnership with Santander, raising the possibility of renewed collaboration as Amex upgrades its infrastructure to compete with global fintechs.
At the time of writing, XRP is trading at $2.20, marking a 1% gain over the past 24 hours.
The modest price movement comes amid wider speculation that Ripple may see renewed institutional adoption if Amex confirms blockchain integration.
Legal uncertainties remain for Ripple despite SEC talks
Meanwhile, Ripple continues to navigate its long-running legal case with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Last week, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse stated that the company has decided to drop its cross-appeal in the case. The SEC is also expected to withdraw its appeal, as it had previously indicated.
However, a request from both Ripple and the SEC for an indicative ruling to reduce Ripple’s $125 million civil penalty was denied.
The ruling also declined to reverse an earlier judgment that labelled Ripple’s institutional sales of XRP as securities transactions.
In her ruling, US District Judge Analisa Torres said that Ripple’s attempt to “push the boundaries” of the prior summary judgment showed a potential for further violations.
Ripple’s chief legal officer, Stuart Alderoty, said that the company had a choice: drop its appeal or continue contesting the securities ruling.
Despite the legal complexities, Alderoty emphasised that XRP’s status “as not a security” has not changed.
Ripple will continue to operate as normal, he added.
The dual developments—Ripple’s legal resolution efforts and American Express’ infrastructure overhaul—have together renewed investor focus on the role blockchain may play in reshaping traditional finance.
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