Safer than BitCoin, might be seen as legit when compared to Bitcoin. Does not have the secrecy/mystery value that Bitcoin has, and with back up of known silicon valley folks more trust worthy. Yes, would not be different than currency offered by central bank (as mentioned below by rszrama) but might offer more flexibility and ease of operation.
Since the Cofounder and CTO also runs Mt.Gox what are the chances that Bitcoin and Ripple have been started by the same person.
