Ripple to Expand RLUSD Stablecoin to Ethereum Layer-2 Networks in 2026 to Support DeFi and Institutional Adoption
Ripple announced plans to expand its RLUSD stablecoin to Ethereum layer-2 networks in 2026 to support decentralized finance (DeFi) growth and institutional adoption. The expansion will include testing RLUSD on networks such as Optimism, Base (Coinbase), Kraken Ink, and Uniswap’s Unichain, with interoperability enabled through the Wormhole protocol.
Optimism is considered a key entry point for RLUSD, aligning with a broader Superchain concept that utilizes shared standards and a common communication layer. The XRP Ledger remains multi-chain focused; it launched an Ethereum-compatible network in June and currently hosts eight projects, including three decentralized exchanges (DEXs), a launchpad, and an NFT marketplace.
RLUSD's recent trading volume reached $32 million in the past day, with most activity on the Bullish exchange (approximately $24 million); RLUSD is also traded on Kraken and Bitstamp. Ripple’s expansion plans follow conditional approval for a national trust banking charter highlighted by CEO Brad Garlinghouse, noting regulatory approvals for other stablecoin issuers such as Paxos and Circle.
Wormhole’s NTT token standard powers over 100 multichain assets, including BlackRock’s BUIDL fund and the Apollo Diversified Credit Fund, facilitating cross-chain tokenization and interoperability. The press release indicates that the RLUSD expansion will enable consumer-facing services such as token swaps, checkout options, and payments.
