XRP news today: Mercari Adds XRP to Platform, Expanding Access to 20 Million Users

XRP, the cryptocurrency developed by Ripple, has taken a significant step towards mainstream adoption in Japan. Mercari, Japan's leading resale app with over 20 million monthly active users, has integrated XRP into its platform, making it the third supported asset alongside Bitcoin and Ethereum. This move is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first time a cryptocurrency tied to an ecosystem heavily adopted in Japan's financial sector has been added to a major platform.

This development was first reported and confirmed by Emi Yoshikawa, Ripple’s Vice President of Strategy and Operations. The listing marks a significant expansion in how consumers interact with XRP, making it available outside the traditional finance sector and accessible via a platform they already use for daily transactions. The integration enables over 20 million monthly users to trade XRP using their existing account balances, loyalty points, or direct bank transfers. Trading can begin with as little as 1 Japanese yen, making it highly accessible to everyday users.

Mercoin, the cryptocurrency exchange run by Mercari, began offering cryptocurrency services in March 2023, starting with Bitcoin. Ethereum was added in May 2024. Since its launch, the platform has attracted over three million users — with approximately 90% being first-time crypto traders. This rapid adoption demonstrates the appeal of offering digital assets through platforms that are already widely trusted and used.

Unlike Bitcoin or Ethereum, XRP has long-standing connections in Japan. It is well-established through its relationship with SBI Holdings, a major financial institution in the country and a key partner of Ripple. SBI’s subsidiaries, including SBI VC Trade and SBI Remit, have supported XRP adoption for use cases such as cross-border transactions, on-demand liquidity, and even consumer purchases like used vehicles. Though the new listing does not bring additional use cases, it significantly enhances accessibility. By integrating XRP into an app already used by millions for e-commerce, Mercoin lowers the barrier to entry for casual users. This means that individuals do not need to create new accounts on dedicated exchanges or navigate unfamiliar crypto interfaces; they can engage with XRP using tools and platforms they already understand.

Ask Aime: Why is XRP gaining traction in Japan?

This move reflects a broader shift in how cryptocurrency is being introduced to mainstream audiences in Japan. Rather than requiring users to seek out specialized services, platforms like Mercoin are embedding crypto access into everyday financial activity. This approach not only encourages adoption but also fosters trust among users who may be new to digital assets. By listing XRP on Mercoin, Mercari has effectively expanded the asset’s reach to a wider audience. While the core functionality of XRP remains unchanged, the ease of access and integration into a widely used app represents a notable advancement. For millions of users in Japan, engaging with XRP is now as simple as tapping a screen using funds and features they already rely on.

The impact of this development extends beyond Japan. As one of the world's largest economies, Japan's embrace of XRP could influence other regions to follow suit. The successful integration of XRP into a major platform like Mercari demonstrates the cryptocurrency's potential to be a mainstream financial tool, capable of handling large-scale transactions efficiently and securely. Moreover, the addition of XRP to Mercari's platform is a testament to the growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies in the financial sector. It signals a shift towards a future where digital assets are seamlessly integrated into everyday financial activities, providing users with more options and flexibility in managing their finances. This development is likely to encourage other platforms and financial institutions to explore similar integrations, further driving the adoption of cryptocurrencies globally.

In conclusion, the integration of XRP into Mercari's platform is a significant milestone for the cryptocurrency. It not only expands its user base but also validates its utility and relevance in the financial sector. This move is likely to accelerate the adoption of XRP and other cryptocurrencies, paving the way for a future where digital assets play a central role in the global financial system.