XRP News Today: Ripple and SBI Launch RLUSD in Japan to Boost XRP Utility and Remittance Liquidity

Ripple and SBI Holdings have announced a strategic partnership to bring Ripple’s USD-backed stablecoin, RLUSD, to Japan in early 2026. SBI VC Trade will serve as the distributor, marking another step in Ripple’s expansion of its cross-border payment infrastructure in the region. This collaboration is expected to enhance XRP’s utility by pairing it with RLUSD, potentially deepening liquidity in Japan’s remittance corridors while reducing transaction costs and reinforcing XRP’s role as a bridge asset in Ripple’s broader ecosystem [1].

The partnership builds on Ripple’s existing presence in Japan through its On-Demand Liquidity (ODL) service, which has been active since 2021. ODL enables real-time cross-border payments using XRP to eliminate the need for pre-funded accounts, offering faster and more cost-effective transfers. The integration of RLUSD into this framework is expected to create a two-tier system where institutions can hold stable value in RLUSD and convert it into XRP at the moment of transfer for instant bridging [2].

RLUSD, unlike XRP, is a dollar-denominated stablecoin designed for holding and settlement. By distributing RLUSD through SBI VC Trade, Ripple benefits from Japan’s clear regulatory framework under the Payment Services Act, allowing for compliant and scalable USD transactions. This infrastructure supports institutional and remittance providers in safely transacting in USD without exposure to volatile crypto assets, streamlining operations [1].

The timing of the 2026 launch aligns with Japan’s regulatory environment, providing ample time for liquidity seeding and institutional integration. SBI VC Trade’s dual role in both the initial ODL rollout and the upcoming RLUSD distribution highlights its strategic position as a gateway for Ripple’s financial solutions in Japan. Analysts suggest that increased usage of XRP as a bridge asset in RLUSD transactions could drive demand for the token, potentially supporting its price action in the medium term [3].

While RLUSD has faced challenges, including a 40% drop in volume following a large settlement, its launch in Japan remains on track. The partnership is positioned as a long-term infrastructure play rather than a short-term market bet, with both Ripple and SBI focused on building a sustainable financial solution [4].

Ripple’s broader strategy in the stablecoin market includes competing with existing players such as Circle’s USDC. By leveraging SBI’s strong financial infrastructure and regulatory expertise, Ripple aims to establish RLUSD as a viable alternative in Japan, where stablecoin adoption is growing. SBI’s extensive distribution channels and compliance capabilities are expected to accelerate RLUSD’s adoption among both institutional and retail users [2].

The implications for XRP are significant. As RLUSD gains traction, increased demand for XRP as a settlement and liquidity asset could translate into upward price pressure, particularly if the model proves scalable. Ripple’s ongoing strategic alliances reflect its long-term vision of integrating blockchain into traditional finance, aiming to redefine the global payments landscape [3].

Source:

[1] Ripple Takes on Circle in Japan's Growing Stablecoin Market with RLUSD Launch (https://coincentral.com/ripple-takes-on-circle-in-japans-growing-stablecoin-market-with-rlusd-launch/)

[3] XRP Holders Are Discovering New Profit Opportunities Through Blockchain (https://timestabloid.com/xrp-holders-are-discovering-new-profit-opportunities-through-blockchain/)

[4] RLUSD Volume Crashes 40% Following Bullish's $1.15B Settlement (https://coincentral.com/rlusd-volume-crashes-40-following-bullishs-1-15b-settlement/)