XRP’s Strategic Leap: Ripple Teams Up with Mastercard and WebBank to Pilot RLUSD Stablecoin for Card Payments

In a groundbreaking move, Ripple has announced a collaboration with financial giants Mastercard and WebBank, alongside cryptocurrency exchange Gemini, to test its RLUSD stablecoin for settling fiat credit card transactions on the XRP Ledger (XRPL). This pilot program, unveiled on November 7, 2025, represents a significant milestone in bridging blockchain technology with traditional financial systems. The initiative will focus on processing payments for the Gemini XRP Credit Card, utilizing XRPL's infrastructure to enhance efficiency and scalability. By integrating RLUSD into mainstream payment systems, Ripple aims to demonstrate the potential of blockchain-based settlements, further solidifying XRP's role in the future of finance. This partnership not only underscores Ripple's commitment to innovation but also highlights the growing acceptance of digital assets in global payment solutions. As the trial progresses, the crypto community eagerly anticipates the broader implications for XRP's adoption and price trajectory in the evolving financial landscape.

Ripple Partners with Mastercard and WebBank to Test RLUSD Stablecoin for Card Payments

Ripple is collaborating with Mastercard, WebBank, and Gemini to pilot the use of its RLUSD stablecoin for settling fiat credit card transactions on the XRP Ledger (XRPL). The initiative marks a significant step toward integrating blockchain-based settlements into mainstream financial systems.

The partnership will focus on processing payments for the Gemini XRP Credit Card, leveraging XRPL's infrastructure for on-chain settlement between Mastercard and WebBank. Sherri Haymond, Mastercard's Global Head of Digital Commercialization, emphasized the goal of bringing regulated stablecoin payments into the financial mainstream through this collaboration.

Mastercard views stablecoins like RLUSD as a secure, compliant settlement layer. The test could set a precedent for institutional adoption of blockchain technology in traditional payment networks.

XRP Price Prediction: Landmark Ruling in India Says XRP Is ‘Property’ – Could This Unlock Global Legal Recognition?

India's Madras High Court has delivered a groundbreaking ruling, declaring cryptocurrencies as 'property capable of being possessed and held in trust.' The decision came in response to a lawsuit filed by Rhutikumari against WazirX, after the exchange froze her account holding 3,532.30 XRP worth approximately $9,400. The court sided with Rhutikumari, barring WazirX from accessing her XRP and mandating a bank guarantee of $11,500 pending further proceedings.

The case stems from WazirX's controversial 'socialization of losses' plan, implemented after a $235 million hack in July 2024. The ruling solidifies legal protections for crypto holders in India, equating digital assets with traditional property under the law. This precedent could pave the way for broader global recognition of cryptocurrencies as legitimate assets.

US Banks Push Back Against Crypto Firms Seeking Trust Charters

Major banking associations are escalating their opposition to cryptocurrency companies pursuing federal trust charters, arguing such moves threaten the stability of the traditional financial system. The Bank Policy Institute and Independent Community Bankers of America have formally urged the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency to reject Coinbase's application, with similar objections raised against Ripple, Circle, and Paxos.

At stake is more than regulatory paperwork—these charters WOULD grant crypto platforms federal recognition while potentially allowing them to operate under different rules than conventional banks. Traditional lenders view this as an existential challenge, fearing crypto firms want the prestige of banking status without corresponding oversight.

Comptroller Jonathan Gould appears unmoved by the backlash. During recent remarks at the Clearing House conference, he suggested trust charters actually enhance the OCC's ability to supervise crypto activities. The standoff reflects broader tensions as digital asset companies seek legitimacy within the US financial infrastructure.

Ripple Rules Out IPO Plans Despite Crypto Industry's Public Listing Trend

Ripple President Monica Long has definitively shelved IPO ambitions during the company's Swell conference in New York. "We do not have an IPO timeline. No plan, no timeline," Long told Bloomberg, contrasting with peers like Circle, Gemini, and Kraken who've either gone public or are preparing listings.

The blockchain payments firm instead revealed a $500 million funding round at a $40 billion valuation, attracting heavyweights including Citadel Securities and Galaxy Digital. This war chest enables Ripple to bypass public markets while expanding its product suite and customer base, which reportedly doubled last quarter.

"We're in a fortunate position where we've been able to fund all growth organically," Long noted, though 2024 revenue figures remain undisclosed. The development underscores how well-capitalized crypto natives are rewriting traditional fintech playbooks.

Ripple Acquires Palisade in Strategic Move to Bolster Payments Infrastructure

Ripple continues its aggressive expansion in the global payments sector with the acquisition of Palisade, a digital asset custody infrastructure provider. This marks Ripple's fourth acquisition in recent months, signaling heightened competition with SWIFT, the incumbent messaging network for cross-border transactions.

The deal integrates Palisade's wallet-as-a-service technology into Ripple's ecosystem, enhancing its custody and payment infrastructure. Ripple emphasizes the acquisition's role in advancing institutional-grade digital asset solutions, particularly for corporate payments and value transfer across its network.

Market observers view the MOVE as bullish for XRP, underscoring Ripple's commitment to building what it terms the 'Internet of Value.' The strategic focus on secure custody infrastructure reflects broader industry trends toward institutional adoption of blockchain-based financial systems.

Ripple Secures $500 Million Funding at $40 Billion Valuation to Expand Digital Asset Services

Ripple has raised $500 million in a new funding round, catapulting its valuation to $40 billion—more than triple its previous $11.3 billion valuation. The investment, led by Fortress Investment Group and Citadel Securities, with participation from Pantera Capital, Galaxy Digital, and others, will fuel Ripple's expansion into custody, stablecoins, prime brokerage, and treasury services.

Despite maintaining a strong balance sheet, Ripple opted to accept the capital to accelerate its growth in the digital asset space. The company's stablecoin, RLUSD, launched last year, now ranks among the top 10 in the U.S. with a $1.02 billion market cap. Regulatory tailwinds, including the GENIUS Act and pro-crypto policies under the TRUMP administration, have bolstered Ripple's diversification beyond payments.

President Monica Long emphasized the strategic nature of the raise, noting it was opportunistic rather than necessary. The funds will prioritize stablecoin development and corporate treasury solutions, reinforcing Ripple's position as a multifaceted player in crypto finance.