- The XRP Ledger has officially launched its new EVM-compatible sidechain on the mainnet
- The sidechain allows developers to build and deploy Ethereum-style smart contracts on XRPL
- It connects to the broader multichain ecosystem via the Axelar bridge, using XRP as gas
The XRP Ledger (XRPL) has officially launched its highly anticipated EVM-compatible sidechain on the mainnet, a major development that brings Ethereum-style smart contracts to XRPL’s fast and scalable infrastructure. Thi.s move opens the door for XRP to become a serious new contender in the multichain world of decentralized finance.
How Does the New EVM Sidechain Work?
For years, the XRP Ledger has been known as a reliable platform for payments. The launch of the XRPL EVM Sidechain now expands its capabilities into the broader world of smart contracts. The sidechain is fully compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine, which means developers can now build new applications or bring existing ones from Ethereum directly into the XRP ecosystem using the popular Solidity programming language.
The new sidechain connects to the main XRPL through the Axelar bridge, and it uses XRP as the native token to pay for gas fees on all transactions.
Related: XRP Ledger Sets New Record with 5.1 Million Transactions in 24 Hours
Powered by a Proof of Authority consensus and connected to XRPL via the Axelar bridge, the new sidechain supports low-cost, high-speed transactions. XRP serves as the native gas token, ensuring seamless value movement between the sidechain and the main ledger.
According to Ripple CTO David Schwartz, this innovation enhances XRPL’s functionality without compromising its efficiency and dependability.
Cross-Chain Capabilities and Developer Incentives
The sidechain’s integration with Axelar, Squid, and soon Wormhole, enables developers to tap into over 80 connected blockchains. Consequently, builders can now design apps that leverage XRP’s deep liquidity, while enjoying Ethereum-level programmability. The ecosystem also benefits from tooling partners like Grove, Band Protocol, and Goldsky, who are providing infrastructure, indexing, and on-chain oracle services.
Moreover, the EVM Sidechain is backed by a robust validator set of over 25 companies, ensuring network resilience and decentralization.
Why Is This a Major Step for XRP?
With more than six million existing wallets, a high transaction speed, and a reputation for consistent uptime, the XRP Ledger is now positioned to become a central player in the next generation of DeFi.
The new sidechain is already supported by a strong set of over 25 validators, and partners like Strobe and Securd are already building new DeFi protocols for lending and derivatives on the platform. As Ferran Prat of Peersyst, a key development partner, said, this is just “Day 1” of XRP’s major new push into scalable, cross-chain finance.
Related: Ripple-Backed USDB Stablecoin Goes Live on XRPL for Cross-Border Payments in Latin America
As developers start deploying real-time applications, XRP’s utility could expand rapidly. Despite a minor 0.02% dip as of press time, XRP trades at $2.18 with a 7.73% gain over the past week. Backed by strong fundamentals and growing developer interest, XRP may soon become a multichain DeFi mainstay.
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