Aiming to strengthen its stablecoin payment capabilities. The deal is expected to close in Q4 2025, subject to regulatory approval. Backed by Galaxy Ventures and Accomplice, Rail specializes in using tokenized currencies for cross-border payments.
Ripple plans to grow its RLUSD stablecoin amid clearer regulatory frameworks in the US and internationally. The timing of this acquisition appears aligned with the GENIUS Act and recent SEC guidance on stablecoin accounting.
RLUSD President Monica Long highlighted that the acquisition will help expand Ripple’s reach as more institutions adopt stablecoin payment solutions. Rail projects it will process about 10% of the global $36 billion B2B stablecoin payment volume, aiming to reduce cross-border settlement times from days to just hours through tokenized US currencies.
Ripple intends to utilize Rail’s infrastructure to offer regulated payment processing across the US, Canada, and emerging markets. This acquisition also gives Ripple a customer-facing payments platform as fintech and corporate clients seek compliant digital dollar alternatives.
The move is expected to enhance RLUSD’s appeal to institutions looking for transparent and efficient payment rails. Earlier in April, Ripple acquired Hidden Road, a prime brokerage firm focused on liquidity and custody, for $1.25 billion. Additionally, Ripple applied for a US banking license in July and partnered with Bank of New York Mellon for custody services as part of its stablecoin strategy.
RLUSD, launched in December 2024, has grown to over $500 million in circulation but still trails market leaders Tether’s USDT and Circle’s USDC. Ripple’s recent acquisitions signal its ambition to make RLUSD a strong competitor by combining robust infrastructure with regulatory compliance.
The evolving legislation aims to provide consumer protections, anti-money laundering measures, and financial stability standards, enabling companies like Ripple to expand confidently.
