TLDR
- RLUSD stablecoin expands to Base, Optimism, Ink, and Unichain in test phase
- Ripple uses Wormhole’s NTT for native token movement without wrapping
- Public launch awaits NYDFS approval, expected rollout in early 2025
- RLUSD now spans Ethereum, XRP Ledger, and selected layer-2 chains
Ripple has begun expanding its U.S. dollar-backed stablecoin, RLUSD, to Ethereum-based layer-2 blockchains. This includes Coinbase’s Base, Optimism, Kraken’s Ink, and Uniswap’s Unichain. The expansion is currently in a testing phase and will proceed with a wider rollout in 2025, pending approval from the New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS).
The move marks a strategic step for Ripple in extending RLUSD’s presence across the multichain ecosystem. The stablecoin is currently available on Ethereum and the XRP Ledger. The company aims to position RLUSD as a key digital asset for both decentralized finance and institutional on-chain activities.
Native Cross-Chain Transfers with Wormhole NTT Standard
Ripple has partnered with Wormhole to integrate its Native Token Transfers (NTT) standard. This allows RLUSD to move between chains natively, without wrapping or creating synthetic versions. Native transfers ensure liquidity and maintain regulatory control while enhancing RLUSD’s usability across networks.
The use of the NTT standard supports Ripple’s goal of enabling on-chain movement with fewer technical barriers. “By launching RLUSD—the first U.S. Trust Regulated stablecoin on these L2 networks—we are not just expanding utility; we are setting the definitive standard where compliance and onchain efficiency converge,” said Jack McDonald, senior vice president of stablecoin at Ripple.
Regulatory Path and Strategic Growth Plans
Ripple stated that the current expansion phase remains a pilot, as it awaits full regulatory approval. The firm holds a Trust Charter from NYDFS and recently received conditional approval for a federal trust bank charter from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC).
With the OCC’s conditional approval, RLUSD is positioned to become the first stablecoin issued under both state and federal oversight. This regulatory framework could attract institutions looking for compliant on-chain solutions. Ripple also recently secured approval from Abu Dhabi’s Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA), allowing RLUSD to be used in regional markets.
RLUSD’s Role in DeFi and XRP Integration
Ripple aims to increase RLUSD’s functionality across DeFi platforms. The expansion to layer-2 chains optimized for speed and lower fees allows broader utility in swaps, lending, and payments. RLUSD’s cross-chain capabilities will support emerging DeFi use cases on networks like Base and Optimism.
The rollout also includes a wrapped version of XRP (wXRP). This enables users to swap or convert wXRP to RLUSD within DeFi applications on supported chains. The integration promotes usage of Ripple’s native token alongside its stablecoin in decentralized applications.
Ripple continues to work toward a scalable and interconnected blockchain environment. The firm’s multichain strategy is focused on enabling seamless asset transfers while complying with regulatory standards across jurisdictions.
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