Ripple’s XRP Ledger is entering a new phase of utility with the launch of an Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM)-compatible sidechain on mainnet — a move aimed at bridging the gap between XRP’s efficiency and Ethereum’s smart contract dominance.
Developed by Ripple in collaboration with Peersyst and Axelar, the new XRPL EVM Sidechain enables developers to build or migrate Ethereum-based decentralized applications (dApps) into the XRP ecosystem. It leverages Evmos software to bring full EVM support, allowing use cases like lending, tokenization, and payments to thrive on a platform known for low fees and high-speed transactions.
“This marks a significant step forward in expanding the XRP Ledger’s capabilities without compromising its core strengths,” said Ripple CTO David Schwartz.
The sidechain is connected to XRPL’s mainnet using Axelar’s bridge, which enables cross-chain transfers — including wrapped XRP, the gas token for the EVM chain. Axelar already links to more than 80 blockchain networks, and its integration positions XRPL EVM for broader multichain activity.
Peersyst CEO Ferran Prat called the launch “Day 1” of a wider journey toward full interoperability. The network has already begun onboarding DeFi players like Band Protocol, Grove, and Squid. Tools such as Blockscout and Goldsky are integrated, and more dApps — including Strobe, Securd, and Vertex — are expected to go live soon.
Wormhole, a leading cross-chain protocol connecting over 35 blockchains, is also scheduled to join the ecosystem, reinforcing the XRPL EVM’s ambition to become a major hub in the multichain DeFi landscape.
Alexander Stefanov
Reporter at Coindoo
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Source: https://coindoo.com/xrp-ledger-expands-with-launch-of-ethereum-compatible-sidechain/