Ripple Expands RLUSD Stablecoin to Layer 2 Networks

3 mins mins

Key Points:

Ripple expands RLUSD to Layer 2 networks, enhancing exposure.
Launches testing on Optimism, Base, Ink, Unichain.
Regulatory approval necessary for further expansions.

Ripple announced its RLUSD stablecoin expansion to Layer 2 networks like Optimism and Base on December 15, collaborating with Wormhole for cross-chain interoperability.

This expansion enhances DeFi utility for RLUSD by introducing scalability across Layer 2 networks, with future growth contingent on regulatory approvals and successful testing.

RLUSD Expands to Layer 2: Collaboration with Wormhole

Ripple has initiated the first expansion of its RLUSD stablecoin to Layer 2 networks, initially including Optimism, Base, Ink, and Unichain. This launch is facilitated through collaboration with Wormhole, utilizing the NTT token standard for multichain interoperability.

Immediate changes involve greater scalability and reduced transaction costs for RLUSD, thereby increasing its utility for decentralized finance (DeFi) and institutional applications. This expansion is subject to regulatory testing and approval processes by the New York Department of Financial Services.

Within the market, attention is drawn to Ripple’s move as it sets a precedent for more regulated stablecoins transitioning to Layer 2 networks. Ripple’s SVP of Stablecoin, Jack McDonald, emphasized the role of RLUSD in enhancing DeFi access, and its potential as a medium for liquidity and compliance.

“Stablecoins are the gateway to DeFi and institutional adoption, and RLUSD is designed from the ground up to be the trusted, liquid medium necessary for users to seamlessly enter, interact with, and exit the entire digital asset economy. By launching RLUSD—the first US Trust Regulated stablecoin on these L2 networks—we are not just expanding utility; we are setting the definitive standard where compliance and on-chain efficiency converge.” – Jack McDonald, Ripple Insights

Regulatory Milestone: First U.S. Trust-Regulated Stablecoin on Layer 2

Did you know? The recent expansion marks the first time a U.S. trust-regulated stablecoin has been launched on Layer 2 networks, potentially reshaping compliance and efficiency standards within the cryptocurrency industry.

According to CoinMarketCap, Ripple USD (RLUSD) holds a market cap of “$1.03 billion” with a 24-hour trading volume up by 83.51%, despite a minor recent price drop of 0.04%. Market dynamics show marginal changes over various periods, reflecting controlled volatility.

ripple-usd-daily-chart-8 — Ripple USD(RLUSD), daily chart, screenshot on CoinMarketCap at 14:11 UTC on December 15, 2025. *Source: CoinMarketCap*

Insights from the Coincu research team indicate that RLUSD’s expansion might spur regulatory discussions on stablecoin oversight in Layer 2 ecosystems, provoking technological shifts and potentially encouraging similar expansions by other regulated coins.

DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is provided as general market commentary and does not constitute investment advice. We encourage you to do your own research before investing.