XRP is a network token that allows you to use the Ripple Network. To my knowledge, it doesn't give you "equity" or ownership in anything. Just like ETH allows you to use the Ethereum network, but somehow has become a proxy for the value of the network.

So the funding raised does not back up XRP in any way. If XRP does in fact have legal status other than "gas", please provide a link, thanks.

And as for Steemit Inc, they have private venture investors and what amounts to a secret roadmap.