XRP News Today: XRP Ledger Launches EVM Sidechain Boosting Ethereum Smart Contracts

The XRP Ledger (XRPL) has recently introduced a significant upgrade with the launch of an Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM)-compatible sidechain. This development allows the XRP Ledger to support Ethereum-based smart contracts and decentralized finance (DeFi) applications, making it a more versatile platform. The upgrade is designed to attract Ethereum developers who are seeking faster and more affordable solutions for their projects.

The integration of Axelar and Wormhole into the XRP Ledger’s EVM sidechain enhances cross-chain interoperability. The Axelar bridge connects the XRPL to over 80 blockchains, enabling seamless communication between various ecosystems. Additionally, Wormhole facilitates asset transfers across different chains, allowing users to move assets freely between networks such as Solana, Ethereum, and others. This expanded interoperability opens new opportunities for users and developers, as it allows the XRP Ledger to interact with assets and protocols across the broader blockchain landscape.

For developers, the introduction of the EVM sidechain offers a familiar environment for building decentralized applications (dApps). They can now deploy Solidity-based smart contracts on the XRP Ledger with minimal friction. XRP, the native gas token, will be used to pay for transaction fees, ensuring that transactions remain fast and cost-effective. This further enhances the XRP Ledger’s appeal, especially for those already accustomed to Ethereum’s development tools.

Moreover, the low-cost, high-speed nature of the XRP Ledger continues to make it an attractive alternative for building on the blockchain. The sidechain provides developers with access to XRPL’s established user base, which includes over 6 million wallet holders, while also benefiting from the high throughput and low latency the platform offers. This upgrade positions the XRP Ledger as a competitive option in the blockchain ecosystem, offering both the familiarity of Ethereum’s tools and the efficiency of the XRP Ledger’s infrastructure.