Ripple merges RLUSD into payments platform to expand utility

Ripple has integrated its USD-backed stablecoin, RLUSD, into its flagship payments platform, Ripple Payments. 

Ripple (XRP) is doing this to improve cross-border payment efficiency and expand RLUSD’s (RLUSD) utility among financial institutions, according to a note shared with crypto.news.

Since its launch in December 2024, RLUSD has seen its adoption approach $250 million in market capitalization, with $10 billion in total trading volume. 

Cross-border payments

Ripple Payments processes billions of dollars in transactions, and the addition of RLUSD strengthens its cross-border capabilities. 

RLUSD is already in use by select payment providers, including BKK Forex and iSend, optimizing treasury operations and settlement processes. 

Ripple plans to expand RLUSD’s role in payments over time, leveraging its global payout network. Unlike many stablecoins designed for retail use, RLUSD is tailored for enterprise applications, ensuring compliance and liquidity for businesses engaged in global transactions.

Jack McDonald, Ripple’s SVP of Stablecoins, highlighted RLUSD’s rapid growth, noting that it is increasingly used as collateral in both crypto and traditional finance markets. 

“New exchanges are listing RLUSD on an ongoing basis, and we’re actively working with NGOs to streamline giving through stablecoins,” McDonald stated.

RLUSD on Kraken

RLUSD continues to gain traction across leading crypto exchanges. Following its availability on LMAX Digital, Zero Hash, Bitstamp, and Bullish, the stablecoin is now listed on Kraken, broadening access for retail and institutional users.

Designed for enterprise-grade financial applications, RLUSD enables instant cross-border settlements, supports liquidity for remittances, integrates with DeFi protocols, and serves as collateral for trading tokenized real-world assets.