XRP’s Strategic Leap: Ripple to Launch RLUSD Stablecoin in Japan via SBI Partnership

Ripple has announced a groundbreaking move to introduce RLUSD, a USD-pegged stablecoin, in Japan through a strategic collaboration with SBI Holdings. Scheduled for release in Q1 2026, RLUSD will be distributed via SBI VC Trade, the cryptocurrency division of the prominent Japanese financial group. The stablecoin is designed to maintain a 1:1 peg with the US dollar, backed by a reserve of US dollar deposits, short-term Treasury bills, and cash equivalents, ensuring stability even amid market fluctuations. Tomohiko Kondo, CEO of SBI VC Trade, highlighted the significance of this initiative, emphasizing its potential to enhance liquidity and foster broader adoption of digital assets in Japan. This development marks a pivotal step in Ripple's expansion strategy, leveraging its strong partnership with SBI to tap into the lucrative Japanese market. The launch of RLUSD is expected to bolster XRP's ecosystem, providing a reliable stablecoin option for traders and institutions alike. As the crypto landscape continues to evolve, Ripple's innovative approach positions it as a key player in bridging traditional finance with the digital asset space. The announcement has already generated significant interest, with industry experts anticipating a positive impact on XRP's market dynamics leading up to the 2026 release.

Ripple Introduces Stablecoin to Captivate the Japanese Market

Ripple has unveiled plans to launch RLUSD, a USD-pegged stablecoin, in Japan through a partnership with SBI Holdings. The stablecoin, set for release in Q1 2026, will be distributed via SBI VC Trade, the crypto arm of the Japanese financial giant. RLUSD is backed 1:1 by US dollar deposits, short-term Treasury bills, and cash equivalents, ensuring stability even during market volatility.

Tomohiko Kondo, CEO of SBI VC Trade, highlighted the firm's role as a pioneer in Japan's crypto and blockchain space. The introduction of RLUSD aims to enhance market options while prioritizing reliability and usability. Since its global debut in December 2024, Ripple's stablecoin has steadily expanded its reach, with Japan marking a strategic milestone.

Regulatory developments in Dubai, noted earlier this year, underscore the growing global framework for stablecoin adoption. Ripple's transparency in reserve composition sets a benchmark for the sector.

XRP Futures Hit Record $9.02B Volume Amid ETF Speculation

CME Group's XRP futures market has shattered records, posting $9.02 billion in turnover as institutional interest surges. Open interest reached an unprecedented 6,000 contracts, translating to $7.5 billion in notional value—a clear signal of growing conviction among professional traders.

The derivatives activity coincides with heightened ETF speculation. Polymarket traders now price in a 78% probability of Ripple ETF approval by 2025, with $144,000 wagered on the outcome. Options volume spiked 32%, reflecting bullish positioning.

Over 251,000 XRP contracts have changed hands in Q3 alone, establishing CME's product as a preferred hedging instrument in regulated markets. The surge follows accumulating bets on XRP's regulatory clarity and potential spot ETF launches.