Brad Garlinghouse joins critics of Coinbase’s ‘apolitical mission’

Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse criticised Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong’s stance, who earlier said the exchange would refrain from discussing social and political issues not related to the crypto industry, according to CNBC.

The head of the fintech startup believes that tech firms are obliged to engage with these issues, and Ripple does not intend to follow Coinbase’s example.

“We see our mission in building an internet that has value, while aiming for positive outcomes for society. I believe tech companies have the opportunity — in fact the obligation — to become part of the solution,” Garlinghouse said.

He called the “sad reality” that some social issues are exacerbated by the very platforms themselves. As examples, Garlinghouse cited the use of Facebook and YouTube to manipulate elections.

He recalled that, together with Ripple, he filed a lawsuit against YouTube for Google’s subsidiary failing to take action against scammers promoting fake XRP token giveaways on their behalf.

“We did not need to do this. It does not help Ripple, but it underscores that platforms must take on problems they contribute to,” Garlinghouse said.

Earlier Armstrong’s decision to shield Coinbase from political and social activism was criticised by Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey. Some in the crypto community backed him.

Not all employees agreed with the new policy, and at least about 5% of staff preferred to resign. As a result, John Rass, the head of international marketing, left Coinbase.

Horowitz also left his post as Chief Compliance Officer. The reason for his decision remains unknown.

As reported, the venture firm of tennis star Serena Williams removed Coinbase from its list of portfolio companies.

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