SBI Holdings CEO Yoshitaka Kitao has clarified that the firm holds a 9% stake in Ripple Labs, countering speculation that it owns $10 billion in XRP. Kitao emphasized that SBI's equity in Ripple could represent a significant hidden asset, potentially exceeding $10 billion, especially if Ripple pursues a public listing. This revelation shifts focus from direct XRP holdings to broader equity exposure in Ripple's ecosystem. SBI is also expanding its digital asset presence in Asia, announcing plans to acquire a majority stake in Singapore-based crypto platform Coinhako. This move is part of SBI's strategy to strengthen its digital asset network across Asia, including tokenized stocks and stablecoins. Additionally, SBI plans to launch a Crypto Asset ETF in Tokyo, featuring Bitcoin and XRP, pending regulatory approval. SBI Holdings, a major Japanese financial group, manages ¥10 trillion in assets and is aggressively expanding into digital assets. The firm aims to grow its crypto business through strategic investments and its 9% stake in Ripple, which could significantly increase in value following a public listing or similar valuation event.