Thanks for clearing that up.
So the main reason for me to open a bitstamp acct would be:
1. To be able to pay with bitcoin on web sites
2. To store my bitcoin in a place that right now is considered safer than a Ripple beta client
3. To be able to withdraw as USD to a bank account
I'll read up some more I guess.
i dont think holding btc in bitstamp account is any safer than holding btc iou in ripple account (if issued by bitstamp). basically both situations = bitstamp owes you btc
but yes to number 1 and 3 i think