+1 XRP are worthless yet they are already exchanging them as if they have value.
The definition of worthless is having no value. But if they are being exchanged for value then they are not worthless are they?
You mean to say that they are worthless
to you. That does not make them worthless, it just means that your subjective valuation of them is zero.
What is to stop regulators from shutting open coin down?
This is the first productive statement that you've made and one that is finally worth answering. Nothing stops regulators from shutting OpenCoin down. I think the source code would be published at the point, since according to one of the developers there is something to that effect in his employment contract.
It is definitely in OpenCoin's best interest to lose all control they have over Ripple as soon as possible. I believe they are working hard to achieve that goal.
"Is manipulation so bad?"
Yeah if you are the one being manipulated at the potential gain of another.
Its easy to avoid getting manipulated by OpenCoin's XRP operations - simply don't invest money in XRP!
Where did you get the idea that you have to put all your money into XRP in order for Ripple to be useful to you?
Okay you are obviously only wanting to see one side of the coin.
The fact that ripple can be shut down is enough reason not to use it.
Condoning manipulation shows your true colors.
Now you are just making shit up that I didn't say.