Ripple USD (RLUSD): A stable currency for cross-border payments based on XRP Ledger and Ethereum

2025-03-14, 02:59

Introduction

Ripple USD (RLUSD) is reshaping the future of cross-border payments. This innovative stablecoin based on XRP Ledger and Ethereum not only maintains a fixed value of 1:1 with the US dollar, but also brings unprecedented efficiency to global financial transactions. As a stablecoin that meets regulatory requirements, how does RLUSD strike a balance between speed, low cost, and security? Let’s take a deep dive into this game-changing digital asset.

Trade XRP now: https://www.gate.io/trade/XRP_USDT

RLUSD: A revolutionary innovation in the field of stablecoins

As a new type of stablecoin, Ripple USD (RLUSD) is bringing revolutionary changes to the field of cross-border payments. RLUSD was launched by Ripple and aims to maintain a fixed value of 1:1 with the US dollar. This stablecoin is not only natively issued on the XRP Ledger, but also supports the Ethereum blockchain, providing users with a wider range of application scenarios and greater flexibility.

The innovation of RLUSD lies in that it combines the stability of fiat currency with the efficiency of blockchain technology. By using RLUSD, users can enjoy near-real-time global payment services without considering bank opening hours or holidays. This feature makes RLUSD particularly suitable for scenarios such as cross-border remittances and international trade settlements, greatly improving the efficiency of capital circulation.

In addition, RLUSD also provides users with a convenient conversion channel between fiat currency and stablecoins, making the bridge between the traditional financial system and the digital asset world more solid.

Operational mechanism: collateralized stablecoin

As a collateralized stablecoin pegged 1:1 to the US dollar, the value of RLUSD is backed by an equal amount of US dollar reserves. These reserves are managed by qualified custodians and are audited regularly to ensure that the amount of RLUSD in circulation matches the reserves.

RLUSD is issued by Standard Custody & Trust Company, LLC (SCTC), a subsidiary of Ripple. The stablecoin is fully backed by independent cash and cash equivalent reserves and can be redeemed for US dollars at a 1:1 ratio. SCTC is a limited purpose trust company chartered by the New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS). It issues Ripple USD in accordance with its NYDFS charter and complies with the strict know your customer (KYC) and anti-money laundering (AML) requirements of the New York Banking Act.

According to the official website, as of March 6, 2025, the circulation of RLUSD reached US$132.7 million and the reserve fund reached US$140.1 million. These reserves are composed of US dollars and low-risk investment assets, which are safely stored in reputable financial institutions in the United States. These reserves are thoroughly checked monthly by accounting firms to ensure they are accurate and properly managed with attestation reports. This regular verification process ensures that stablecoins are trustworthy and maintain a stable value.

Compliance advantages, rich scenarios
In general, RLUSD offers the following key advantages:

Stability: Due to its 1:1 peg to the US dollar, RLUSD avoids the volatility of other cryptocurrencies and is suitable for payment and value storage.

Speed and cost-effectiveness: Using blockchain technology, RLUSD has fast transaction speeds and low fees, especially in cross-border payments.

Accessibility: RLUSD provides 24/7 global access, breaking through the limitations of the traditional banking system.

Compatibility: Running on two blockchains, Ripple and Ethereum, provides greater flexibility for users and developers.

RLUSD’s application scenarios include but are not limited to:

Cross-border payments and remittances: RLUSD can process international fund transfers efficiently and at low cost, and is particularly suitable for scenarios that require fast settlement.

Trading: As a stablecoin, RLUSD can be used to trade other cryptocurrencies, providing a stable medium of exchange.

Store of value: Users can hold RLUSD as a digital dollar, protecting its value from market fluctuations.

Access to real-world assets: RLUSD can be used to purchase or trade assets tokenized on the Ripple blockchain, such as bonds or securities, which provides new possibilities for investment.

Conclusion

RLUSD, as an innovative stablecoin in the field of cross-border payments, is reshaping the global financial transaction landscape. Compared with other stablecoins such as Tether (USDT) or USDCoin (USDC), RLUSD is unique in its dual-chain compatibility and integration of real-world assets. USDT and USDC mainly run on Ethereum and other blockchains, while RLUSD’s Ripple ledger support may give it an advantage in the field of cross-border payments. As more platforms support RLUSD, it is expected to play a key role in the future cross-border payment and digital financial ecosystem.

Risk warning: Changes in regulatory policies may affect the development of RLUSD, market fluctuations or affect its stability. Users should pay close attention to relevant policies and market trends.


Author: Charle A., Gate.io researcher
*This article only represents the author’s views and does not constitute any trading advice. Investment is risky and decisions should be made with caution.
*The content of this article is original and the copyright belongs to Gate.io. If you need to reprint it, please indicate the author and source, otherwise legal liability will be pursued.
Share
gate logo
Trade Now
Join Gate.io to Win Rewards