**Disclaimer- I used to hold XRP
While I think the underlying tech is great and has a place in fintech, I am not sold on the XRP coin. Until someone comes out and unequivocally states "We will only use XRP for transactions." the coins value is diminished. The amount of XRP held by ripple is also concerning, escrowed or not.
"The amount of XRP held by ripple is also concerning, escrowed or not" ...correct, and of course can just be 'pre-mined' into existence at a whim.