Ripple expands RLUSD stablecoin to Ethereum Layer 2 networks

The experiment marks a crucial move towards the assets public debut, scheduled for 2026 after regulatory approval.

Meanwhile, the current testing phase will occur across Base, Unichain, and Ink, leveraging Wormholdes interoperable infrastructure for streamlined movement between different networks.

Commenting on the latest move, Ripples Stablecoin SVP Jack McDonald acknowledged stablecoins as the gateway to decentralized finance and institutional adoption.

He added:

RLUSD is designed from the ground up to be the trusted, liquid medium necessary for users to seamlessly enter, interact with, and exit the entire digital asset economy. By launching RLUSD, the first US Trust Regulated stablecoin on these L2 networks, we are not just expanding utility; we are setting the definitive standard where compliance and on-chain efficiency converge.

Why do L2 platforms matter？

Layer 2 networks have proven to be some of the busiest avenues in the cryptocurrency sector.

These blockchains are faster, cheaper, and more practical for day-to-day usage than the primary Ethereum network, which faces challenges like congestion and costly transactions.

Therefore, L2s have emerged as the perfect homes for decentralized applications, on-chain services, and digital payments.

By launching RLUSD into these platforms, Ripple is tapping into the potential where real user activity is happening.

Notably, Optimism will serve as the initial entry, with access linked to platforms like Unichain, Ink, and Base.

Such an approach allows Ripples stablecoin to grow alongside solid user activity.

Meanwhile, Ripple is working with Wormhole and its NTT (Native Token Transfers) standard.

With this setup, RLUSD can move between different chains while remaining a consistent, single token.

Ripple controls the stablecoins issuance, whereas users enjoy flexibility across multiple platforms.

The announcement added:

Leveraging Wormholes Native Token Transfers (NTT) standard allows Ripple to maintain native issuance and control of RLUSD while providing the security and flexibility of on-chain liquidity movement across these new ecosystems.

Strengthening XRPs ecosystem

RLUSDs strategic expansion also bolsters the overall XRP ecosystem.

Stablecoins are crucial in trading, digital payments, and liquidity, and Ripple is pushing its stablecoin where demand already exists.

XRP is hovering at $1.93 after dropping 3% the past 24 hours.

Its performance reflects the overall market sentiments.

The cryptocurrency market remains deteriorated, as Bitcoin struggles below $90K, now trading at $87.7K.