Ripple-backed XRP Ledger launches EVM-compatible sidechain to unlock cross-chain DeFi

Developers can now deploy Ethereum-based dapps on XRPL, bringing faster transactions and access to millions of wallets through cross-chain bridges.

Key Takeaways

• The XRP Ledger launched an EVM-compatible sidechain to enable Ethereum-based smart contracts and cross-chain DeFi.
• The sidechain uses XRP as its gas token, connects through Axelar bridge, and is supported by partners like Band Protocol, Grove, and Wormhole.

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Ripple-backed XRP Ledger has rolled out its EVM-compatible sidechain, empowering Ethereum-based smart contracts and cross-chain decentralized finance (DeFi) capabilities within the XRPL ecosystem, according to a Monday press release.

The XRPL EVM Sidechain, developed in collaboration with Peersyst and the broader XRPL ecosystem, connects to the XRP Ledger through an Axelar bridge, which links to over 80 blockchains. The sidechain uses XRP as its native gas token and integrates with Squid as the official cross-chain transfer interface.

“The XRPL EVM Sidechain introduces a flexible environment for developers to deploy EVM-based applications, while maintaining a connection to the XRPL’s efficiency. It extends the capabilities of the ecosystem without changing the fundamentals that make the XRPL reliable,” said David Schwartz, CTO of Ripple and Co-creator of the XRP Ledger.

The sidechain offers several key features, including access to over 6 million XRPL wallet holders, faster block times compared to Ethereum, low transaction costs, and a validator network comprising more than 25 companies.

“Crypto is entering an exciting phase as institutions and enterprises are pursuing compelling new use cases. The XRP Ledger EVM Sidechain is positioned to capture this rising demand, and Axelar is the secure, institutional-grade connector that will make it possible,” said Georgios Vlachos, director at Axelar Foundation and co-founder of the Axelar protocol.

The platform has already attracted various partners, including Band Protocol for oracle services, Grove for public RPC endpoints, and upcoming DeFi applications from Strobe, Securd, and Vertex. Wormhole, which supports over 200 applications across 35+ blockchain ecosystems, is set to integrate with the sidechain.

Schwartz first revealed that XRPL planned to launch an EVM sidechain in Q2 2025 at Singapore’s Apex 2025 event.

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