- Ripple, Peersyst, and Axelar have launched the XRPL EVM sidechain mainnet, bringing Ethereum-compatible smart contracts to the XRP Ledger.
- The sidechain supports cross-chain interoperability with over 80 blockchains through Axelar.
- XRP will serve as the gas token, increasing its on-chain utility and market demand.
- The move is expected to boost developer adoption and drive DeFi and dApp growth on XRPL.
XRPL EVM Sidechain Launch: A New Chapter in Ripple’s Smart Contract Strategy
Ripple has officially launched the XRPL EVM sidechain mainnet in collaboration with Peersyst and Axelar. This major upgrade enables Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) compatibility, allowing developers to deploy Ethereum-based smart contracts directly on the XRP Ledger.
This breakthrough bridges the gap between XRPL’s high-speed, low-cost infrastructure and Ethereum’s robust smart contract environment. According to Ripple CTO David Schwartz, the sidechain “expands core XRPL capabilities without altering its base attributes,” reflecting a strategic step forward for the XRP ecosystem.
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Cross-Chain Interoperability & Developer Ecosystem Expansion
A key element of this launch is the integration with Axelar, which connects XRPL to over 80 blockchain networks. This level of interoperability enables seamless asset transfers and communication across ecosystems, paving the way for DeFi, NFT, and tokenized asset projects to thrive on XRPL.
Developers can now use Ethereum-compatible tools like Solidity to build on XRPL, reducing barriers for teams looking to tap into XRPL’s scalability and low fees.
Ripple as the Gas Token: Fueling Smart Contracts and Utility Growth
A standout feature of this sidechain is its use of XRP as the primary gas token. This means all transactions on the XRPL EVM sidechain will require XRP, cementing its role in the new smart contract environment.
This functionality could significantly increase demand and liquidity for Ripple, making it more attractive to developers, investors, and DeFi builders.
Market Impact and Future Outlook for XRP
Industry analysts suggest this update could have bullish implications for XRP. Historically, EVM-compatible ecosystems like Polygon and BNB Chain have seen significant token adoption and price appreciation following similar upgrades.
With its enhanced multi-chain compatibility, the XRP Ledger is well-positioned to attract new dApps, partnerships, and DeFi protocols. Ripple’s strategic move strengthens XRPL’s competitive edge in the growing multi-chain world.
Ripple’s XRPL Sidechain Is a Game-Changer
The XRPL EVM sidechain represents a milestone upgrade that blends the best of both worlds: Ethereum’s flexibility and XRPL’s performance. By integrating cross-chain capabilities and enabling XRP as a gas token, Ripple is setting the stage for sustained ecosystem growth, enhanced network utility, and broader market relevance.
