Ripple’s RLUSD Goes Multichain: What You Need to Know in 2025
- Why Is Ripple Pushing RLUSD Multichain?
- How Does RLUSD's Multichain Tech Work?
- Where Does RLUSD Stand in the Stablecoin Rankings?
- What’s Next for RLUSD?
- FAQs: RLUSD's Multichain Move
Ripple Labs is making waves again, this time with its ambitious multichain expansion for its stablecoin RLUSD. With over $1 billion in market cap and a spot among the top 10 stablecoins, RLUSD is now testing the waters on Optimism, Base, Ink, and Unichain networks. This strategic move leverages Wormhole's Native Token Transfers (NTT) standard, ensuring RLUSD remains natively issued across all supported blockchains without the risks of wrapped tokens. Backed by NYDFS oversight and eyeing additional OCC approval, RLUSD is positioning itself as a serious contender to USDT and USDC. Here's the full breakdown of what this means for the crypto ecosystem.
Why Is Ripple Pushing RLUSD Multichain?
Ripple isn't just dipping its toes—it's diving headfirst into multichain functionality for RLUSD. The stablecoin, already live on XRP Ledger and Ethereum, is now being tested on four ethereum Layer-2 networks: Optimism, Base, Ink, and Unichain. According to Jack McDonald, Ripple's SVP of Stablecoin, this isn't just about expanding usability; it's about setting a new standard where "compliance and on-chain efficiency converge." The technical backbone? Wormhole's NTT protocol, which eliminates the need for wrapped tokens while keeping Ripple in control of smart contracts. For institutions, this means fewer bridge-related risks—a major pain point in DeFi.
How Does RLUSD's Multichain Tech Work?
Forget bridges. RLUSD's multichain approach relies on Wormhole's NTT standard, allowing the stablecoin to exist natively on every supported blockchain. No synthetic versions, no third-party custody risks—just a single asset with consistent value across networks. This is a game-changer for traders and developers alike, especially when you consider the Layer-2 networks involved. Optimism and Base are already DeFi hotspots, while Ink and Unichain are gaining traction for low fees and fast settlements. As one Wormhole co-founder put it, "RLUSD is one of the few stablecoins with the tech and regulatory muscle to challenge USDT and USDC."
Where Does RLUSD Stand in the Stablecoin Rankings?
With a market cap north of $1 billion, RLUSD has cracked the top 10 stablecoins—no small feat in a market dominated by Tether ($186B) and USDC ($78B). It's also outpacing smaller players like TrueUSD and First Digital USD, both stuck below $600M. But let's be real: RLUSD still has ground to cover. PayPal USD ($3.9B) and World Liberty Financial USD ($2.7B) are still ahead, though Ripple's regulatory edge (NYDFS + pending OCC approval) could help close that gap. Data from CoinMarketCap shows RLUSD's steady climb since its 2024 launch, with trading volume spiking 40% since the multichain announcement.
What’s Next for RLUSD?
Ripple isn't stopping at four networks. Insider chatter suggests Avalanche and Polygon integrations are already in development, with a full multichain rollout expected by Q2 2026. The bigger play? Tighter integration with XRP—think wXRP for cross-chain liquidity and DeFi use cases. Analysts at BTCC note that RLUSD's growth could mirror XRP's 2023 rally if adoption picks up in payment corridors. One thing's certain: with regulators scrutinizing stablecoins, RLUSD's compliance-first approach might just be its secret weapon.
FAQs: RLUSD's Multichain Move
Is RLUSD safer than other stablecoins?
With NYDFS oversight and OCC approval pending, RLUSD has stronger regulatory backing than most—especially compared to offshore-issued rivals like USDT.
Which exchanges list RLUSD?
You can trade RLUSD on BTCC, Binance, and Kraken, with more platforms expected to add support post-multichain expansion.
Will RLUSD's value stay pegged during the expansion?
Yes. The NTT standard ensures 1:1 redemption across all chains, with reserves audited monthly by a Big Four firm.
