Ripple Expands RLUSD to Ethereum L2s Using Wormhole Standard
- Ripple expands RLUSD to Ethereum L2s via Wormhole for regulated multichain transfers.
- The stablecoin becomes the first US trust-regulated token operating on Optimism and Base.
- RLUSD pairs with wrapped XRP across L2 networks, expanding DeFi payments and use.
Ripple has announced plans to expand its RLUSD stablecoin to several Ethereum Layer 2 networks using Wormhole’s interoperability standard. The move places RLUSD on Optimism, Base, Ink, and Unichain. Testing will begin ahead of a broader launch next year, pending regulatory approval.
RLUSD will become the first U.S.-based, trust-regulated stablecoin to operate on these Layer 2 networks. Ripple confirmed that the rollout uses Wormhole’s Native Token Transfers standard. This structure allows native issuance while enabling secure transfers across chains. As a result, RLUSD can move between ecosystems without relying on traditional token bridges.
The stablecoin first launched on the XRP Ledger and Ethereum. That initial design aimed to support cross-chain use and decentralized finance activity. Now, Ripple is extending that strategy to Layer 2 networks built for speed and lower transaction costs. The company said demand across multiple chains drove the expansion.
Ripple stated that Optimism serves as the main entry point for the broader Layer 2 rollout. Base, Ink, and Unichain connect through the same infrastructure. Wormhole’s NTT framework allows Ripple to retain full control of RLUSD issuance. At the same time, it supports on-chain liquidity movement across connected networks.
RLUSD Targets Regulated Multichain Adoption
Ripple said RLUSD was built with institutional finance and compliance requirements in mind. The stablecoin operates under a New York Department of Financial Services Trust Company Charter. This structure subjects RLUSD to bank-level regulatory oversight. Ripple said this framework supports transparency and operational controls.
On the new Layer 2 networks, RLUSD will carry the same regulatory status. Ripple said no other U.S.-based trust-regulated stablecoin currently operates on these chains. The company also confirmed it has applied for a federal Office of the Comptroller of the Currency charter. If approved, RLUSD would gain both state and federal supervision.
Ripple highlighted its broader regulatory footprint beyond the United States. The firm holds more than 75 licenses globally. Regulators in jurisdictions such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi have also recognized RLUSD. These approvals support Ripple’s strategy to position RLUSD for cross-border use.
Company executives said stablecoins act as gateways to decentralized finance and institutional participation. RLUSD aims to provide a compliant on-ramp into on-chain markets. Ripple framed the expansion as part of its long-term infrastructure planning. The company said compliance and efficiency remain central to its design.
Related: AMINA Bank Partners With Ripple on Cross-Border Payments
XRP Utility Grows Through wXRP Liquidity Pairs
Ripple also tied the RLUSD expansion to increased utility for XRP. The rollout will introduce liquidity pairs between RLUSD and wrapped XRP across supported networks. Wrapped XRP allows XRP holders to use their assets outside the native XRP Ledger. This integration expands XRP’s reach into Layer 2 ecosystems.
Hex Trust announced the issuance of wrapped XRP for cross-chain use. This development enables XRP and RLUSD to function together as trading and liquidity pairs. Ripple said the pairing supports swaps, payments, and decentralized finance services. These features extend XRP’s functionality beyond simple transfers.
Businesses can integrate XRP and RLUSD into payment tools and applications. Ripple said supported services may include checkout options, asset swaps, and digital wallets. Users can also access lending and yield opportunities where available. The structure allows XRP holders to interact with multiple chains using wXRP.
Ripple noted that the expansion builds on its earlier Wormhole integration with the XRP Ledger. That integration laid the foundation for secure cross-chain movement. The Layer 2 rollout adds new environments optimized for lower fees and faster settlement. These features support broader decentralized finance use cases.
