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13 May 2026, 08:12
Ripple UDAX Joins Forces with Levery & FGV to Boost Institutional On-Chain Liquidity for Banks in Brazil and LatAm
Ripple UDAX, Levery and FGV Unite to Build Institutional On-Chain Liquidity for Brazilian Banks Levery, an infrastructure provider that enables banks and financial institutions to launch digital asset exchanges using automated market maker (AMM) technology, has partnered with Ripple UDAX and Fundação Getulio Vargas (FGV) to expand institutional on-chain liquidity across Brazil and Latin America. The collaboration represents a major move toward building regulated, blockchain-powered financial infrastructure for traditional banks across the region. At its core is Ripple UDAX (University Digital Asset Xcelerator), an initiative born from Ripple’s partnership with the University of California, Berkeley under the University Blockchain Research Initiative (UBRI). This program connects academic research with practical blockchain deployment, fast-tracking institutional adoption of distributed ledger technology and expanding real-world use cases across the XRP Ledger (XRPL) ecosystem. Through the partnership, Levery supplies the core infrastructure that enables banks to run compliant, AMM-powered trading environments. This allows financial institutions to launch and manage digital asset exchanges with built-in regulatory alignment and full operational transparency. Designed for institutional use, the model prioritizes scalability, auditability, and seamless cross-border interoperability. Brazil Emerges as a Launchpad for Institutional On-Chain Liquidity in Latin America The system is built around deep liquidity provisioning on the XRP Ledger, enabling real-time settlement across Ripple USD, local stablecoins, and tokenized real-world assets. This setup reduces friction in wholesale markets while improving capital efficiency for banks and fintechs across Latin America. On the compliance side, the infrastructure integrates Chainalysis for real-time transaction monitoring, KYT screening, and AML enforcement, ensuring all activity meets evolving regulatory standards and supporting institutional-grade adoption in emerging digital asset markets. Brazil is increasingly positioning itself as a hub for digital asset innovation, and the rollout of an institutional-grade automated market maker built for regulated environments marks a clear step toward mainstream blockchain-based finance in the region. This development aligns with Ripple’s broader expansion strategy, including its planned application for a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) license in Brazil, which would strengthen its presence across custody, payments infrastructure, stablecoin settlement, and treasury services through Ripple. The bottom line is that these moves reflect a deeper convergence between traditional finance and decentralized liquidity systems, with Brazil emerging as a key proving ground for institutional blockchain adoption across Latin America.
13 May 2026, 07:35
Japan Blockchain Foundation to Launch Yen-Pegged Stablecoin EJPY for B2B Transactions
BitcoinWorld Japan Blockchain Foundation to Launch Yen-Pegged Stablecoin EJPY for B2B Transactions The Japan Blockchain Foundation has announced plans to issue a Japanese yen-pegged stablecoin, EJPY, on both the Japan Open Chain (JOC) and Ethereum networks, according to a report by The Block. The foundation will act as the settlor for the trust-based stablecoin, and discussions are reportedly underway with potential trustees. What is EJPY and How Will It Work? EJPY is designed as a trust-based yen stablecoin, meaning its value is backed by Japanese yen held in trust accounts. The Japan Blockchain Foundation will serve as the settlor, responsible for establishing the trust, while trustees will manage the underlying assets. This structure aims to provide transparency and regulatory compliance, a key consideration for institutional adoption. The stablecoin will initially launch on the Japan Open Chain, a blockchain network tailored for the Japanese market, and the widely-used Ethereum network. This dual-chain approach is intended to maximize accessibility and liquidity for businesses. Target Use Cases: B2B Payments and Web3 Services The foundation expects EJPY to drive real-demand transactions on the Japan Open Chain. Primary use cases include: Business-to-business (B2B) payments Cryptocurrency settlements and remittances Payments for various Web3 services By focusing on B2B payments, EJPY aims to address inefficiencies in traditional cross-border and domestic business transactions, such as high fees and slow settlement times. The stablecoin could streamline supply chain payments and intercompany transfers for Japanese firms. Why This Matters for the Crypto and Payments Industry Japan has long been a regulated but progressive market for cryptocurrencies. The introduction of a yen-backed stablecoin by a foundation with close ties to the country’s blockchain ecosystem signals growing institutional interest. For businesses, a stable, regulated digital yen could reduce reliance on traditional banking rails for certain transactions. This development also aligns with global trends where central banks and private entities explore stablecoins for efficiency gains. However, EJPY will need to navigate Japan’s strict financial regulations, including the Payment Services Act and trust law requirements. Conclusion The Japan Blockchain Foundation’s EJPY stablecoin represents a notable step in the evolution of digital payments in Japan. By targeting B2B transactions and leveraging both a domestic blockchain and Ethereum, the project aims to combine regulatory compliance with practical utility. As discussions with trustees continue, the market will watch for further details on launch timelines and adoption partners. FAQs Q1: What is EJPY? EJPY is a Japanese yen-pegged stablecoin issued by the Japan Blockchain Foundation. It is designed for B2B payments, settlements, and Web3 services on the Japan Open Chain and Ethereum networks. Q2: How is EJPY different from other stablecoins? EJPY is a trust-based stablecoin, meaning the yen backing it is held in a trust structure with a settlor and trustees. This is designed to enhance transparency and regulatory compliance compared to some reserve-based stablecoins. Q3: When will EJPY be available? The Japan Blockchain Foundation has announced plans but has not provided a specific launch date. Discussions with trustees are ongoing, and further announcements are expected. This post Japan Blockchain Foundation to Launch Yen-Pegged Stablecoin EJPY for B2B Transactions first appeared on BitcoinWorld .
13 May 2026, 07:25
Upbit to Temporarily Halt Cronos (CRO) Deposits and Withdrawals for Network Upgrade
BitcoinWorld Upbit to Temporarily Halt Cronos (CRO) Deposits and Withdrawals for Network Upgrade South Korean cryptocurrency exchange Upbit has announced a temporary suspension of deposits and withdrawals for Cronos (CRO) tokens, citing an upcoming network upgrade. The halt is scheduled to take effect at 3:00 p.m. UTC on May 19, 2025, and will remain in place until the upgrade is completed and the network is deemed stable. Details of the Suspension Upbit, one of the largest digital asset exchanges in South Korea by trading volume, stated that the suspension is a precautionary measure to ensure user funds remain secure during the Cronos network’s scheduled upgrade. During this period, CRO deposits and withdrawals will be fully disabled, while trading pairs involving CRO may continue to operate as normal, depending on market conditions and exchange policies. The Cronos network, developed by Crypto.com, is a blockchain designed to support decentralized applications (dApps) and DeFi protocols. Network upgrades are routine events that introduce new features, improve scalability, or patch security vulnerabilities. Such upgrades often require validators and node operators to update their software, which can temporarily disrupt network services. What This Means for CRO Holders For traders and investors holding CRO on Upbit, the suspension means they will not be able to move their tokens to external wallets or other exchanges during the maintenance window. Users are advised to complete any pending transfers before the cutoff time to avoid delays. Upbit has not specified an exact end time for the suspension, but similar events typically last between a few hours and a full day, depending on the complexity of the upgrade and the network’s ability to reach consensus afterward. It is important to note that the suspension applies only to deposits and withdrawals. Spot trading of CRO on Upbit may remain active, though liquidity could be affected if users are unable to deposit additional tokens. The exchange has urged users to monitor its official announcements for updates on the resumption of services. Broader Context and Market Impact Network upgrade-related suspensions are common across centralized exchanges. Binance, Coinbase, and Kraken have all implemented similar halts during major blockchain updates. While such events can cause short-term price volatility, they are generally viewed as a sign of network maturation and improved security. CRO has seen fluctuating trading volumes in recent months, and the suspension may add a layer of uncertainty for short-term traders. However, for long-term holders, the upgrade is a positive development that could enhance the Cronos ecosystem’s functionality and attract more developers. Conclusion Upbit’s decision to temporarily suspend CRO deposits and withdrawals is a standard operational procedure during network upgrades. Users should plan accordingly and ensure any necessary transfers are completed before the May 19 deadline. The exchange will likely resume services shortly after the upgrade is finalized, pending network stability checks. As always, staying informed through official channels is the best way to avoid disruptions. FAQs Q1: Why is Upbit suspending CRO deposits and withdrawals? The suspension is due to a scheduled Cronos network upgrade. Exchanges often halt deposits and withdrawals during such events to prevent transaction failures or losses. Q2: How long will the suspension last? Upbit has not given a specific end time. The suspension begins at 3:00 p.m. UTC on May 19 and will continue until the network upgrade is complete and stable. Similar suspensions typically last from a few hours to a day. Q3: Can I still trade CRO on Upbit during the suspension? Deposits and withdrawals are suspended, but spot trading may remain available. However, liquidity could be affected, and users should check Upbit’s official updates for any changes to trading pairs. This post Upbit to Temporarily Halt Cronos (CRO) Deposits and Withdrawals for Network Upgrade first appeared on BitcoinWorld .
13 May 2026, 07:17
XRP & RLUSD Utility Grows as AI Healthcare Platform Expands Community Access
XRP Healthcare Unlocks XRP and RLUSD Swaps for XRPHAI XRP Healthcare has broadened access to its XRPHAI ecosystem by enabling direct swaps in XRP and RLUSD through the XRPH Wallet, strengthening its push to connect blockchain infrastructure with practical healthcare use cases. This new activation enables eligible users across the global XRP community to seamlessly swap XRP or RLUSD for XRPHAI directly within the XRPH Wallet, unlocking access to XRP Healthcare’s expanding AI-driven healthcare ecosystem on the XRP Ledger. Unlike many crypto reward models that rely on passive token holding, XRP Healthcare positions XRPHAI around active participation and verified wellness behavior. Through its Proof of Health framework, users earn XRPHAI by engaging with healthcare and wellness tools inside the XRPH AI app rather than simply holding tokens for speculation. The XRPH Wallet and XRPH AI App are designed to work together as a unified ecosystem, connecting wallet functionality, AI-powered healthcare services, accessibility tools, and reward mechanisms into a single integrated infrastructure. Ripple Ecosystem Shifts Toward Real-World Utility as XRP Healthcare Expands Infrastructure Adoption The development strengthens XRP Healthcare’s long-term push to build XRP-powered healthcare infrastructure on the XRP Ledger. Since launching the XRPH Wallet in 2023, the company has positioned itself among the early adopters focused on enabling XRP-based healthcare payments and real-world utility within the sector. Laban Roomes framed the rollout as a key step in scaling this vision: “We’ve spent years building XRP-powered healthcare infrastructure for long-term global use. Opening XRP and RLUSD access to XRPHAI through the XRPH Wallet is another step toward connecting blockchain utility, healthcare engagement, and rewards at scale.” This expansion reflects accelerating utility across the XRP ecosystem, with XRP Ledger transaction activity rising 65% year-over-year. Growth has been driven by increased institutional usage, RLUSD activity, and exchange integrations including platforms such as Bitstamp. Beyond finance, Ripple’s ecosystem efforts are also gaining traction. Earlier this year, the company advanced its $25 million education initiative focused on improving learning environments across the United States. Therefore, these developments are the icing on the cake because they point to a broader shift within the XRP ecosystem, one increasingly centered on real-world utility, infrastructure growth, and practical adoption rather than speculation.
13 May 2026, 07:02
This Is How XRP Enters the DTCC
Crypto researcher SMQKE has shared a new post outlining what he describes as a direct pathway for XRP to interface with Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation. In the post, SMQKE stated, “This is how XRP enters the DTCC,” before presenting the sequence: “Ripple Prime —> XRP —> DTCC.” The tweet referenced an earlier post that focused on Ripple Prime and Hidden Road, the prime brokerage platform acquired by Ripple . According to SMQKE, the acquisition could significantly expand XRP’s institutional role by placing Ripple closer to traditional financial market infrastructure. The attached image highlights a section explaining Ripple’s strategic motivations behind the Hidden Road acquisition. The document stated that Ripple aims to evolve from focusing primarily on cross-border payments and crypto liquidity into what it described as a “full-scale institutional finance player.” The text further explained that ownership of Hidden Road gives Ripple access to prime brokerage capabilities, including trading, custody, financing, and clearing services for hedge funds and financial institutions. This is how XRP enters the DTCC. Ripple Prime —> XRP —> DTCC https://t.co/xD5XrDRu7a — SMQKE (@SMQKEDQG) May 11, 2026 Hidden Road’s Role in XRP and XRPL Integration SMQKE’s earlier post emphasized that Hidden Road may become the mechanism through which XRP interacts with institutional systems connected to DTCC operations . The referenced document stated that Hidden Road plans to integrate XRP and the XRP Ledger into its settlement infrastructure to improve operational efficiency and accelerate trade settlement processes. The image also claimed that Hidden Road intends to migrate post-trade clearing functions onto the XRP Ledger. According to the text, this move would demonstrate the blockchain’s ability to handle large-scale institutional transaction flows. SMQKE argued that this infrastructure development forms the foundation for XRP’s expanded utility in institutional finance. The researcher also pointed to what he described as public acknowledgment from the DTCC regarding its connection to Ripple. In his earlier statement, SMQKE wrote that “the infrastructure is in place” and suggested that Ripple Prime could serve as the direct route linking XRP with DTCC-related systems. Ripple’s Institutional Ambitions Remain a Focus The post additionally referenced comments from Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse, who reportedly described the Hidden Road acquisition as a major opportunity for crypto companies to gain access to traditional financial markets. The document stated that Ripple seeks to bridge crypto liquidity with conventional asset markets through Hidden Road’s existing infrastructure and institutional client network. SMQKE’s commentary focused heavily on the idea that Ripple Prime could increase XRP’s utility in institutional finance environments. He framed the acquisition as more than a brokerage expansion, arguing that it establishes infrastructure capable of connecting blockchain-based settlement systems with traditional clearing networks. Disclaimer : This content is meant to inform and should not be considered financial advice. The views expressed in this article may include the author’s personal opinions and do not represent Times Tabloid’s opinion. Readers are advised to conduct thorough research before making any investment decisions. Any action taken by the reader is strictly at their own risk. Times Tabloid is not responsible for any financial losses. Follow us on X , Facebook , Telegram , and Google News The post This Is How XRP Enters the DTCC appeared first on Times Tabloid .
13 May 2026, 05:30
Base x402 protocol adds batched settlement to enable sub-fraction-of-a-cent AI payments
Base creator Jesse Pollak announced on May 13 that the x402 payment protocol now supports batched settlement, in an X post. x402 now supports batched settlement this unlocks many many tiny tiny payments ( https://t.co/V6Kjz9jqHQ — jesse.base.eth (@jessepollak) May 13, 2026 The update bundles many transactions together before settling them on-chain, spreading the blockchain fee across multiple payments. Per-transaction settlement on Base already costs fractions of a cent, but batching makes sub-fraction-of-a-cent pricing economically rational for high-frequency AI workloads. As Cryptopolitan reported last week, Amazon Web Services launched AgentCore Payments using x402, with USDC settling in roughly 200 milliseconds on Base. Batched settlement layers on top of that infrastructure. Why batched settlement matters for AI workloads AI services need to charge fractions of a cent per request, query, or inference call. Credit card processing fees and per-transaction blockchain costs both make ultra-small payments uneconomical at scale. x402 processed over 169 million payments in its first year per AWS, with roughly $48 million in payment volume and 95% flowing through Base. Pollak’s vision is software paying software: an AI agent pays tiny amounts for APIs, compute, data feeds, or image generation without human involvement. The Coinbase x402 Bazaar MCP server is the directory layer agents use to discover paid services. AWS, Cloudflare, and others have integrated it into developer tooling. How x402 turns HTTP requests into payment rails The x402 protocol repurposes the long-dormant HTTP 402 “Payment Required” status code. A server responds to a paid endpoint request with HTTP 402 plus machine-readable payment instructions (price, token, chain, recipient wallet). The client signs a payment authorization, retries the request, and the payment settles on-chain. No accounts, API keys, or subscriptions required. Coinbase developed x402 and now co-governs the protocol with Cloudflare under the x402 Foundation. The protocol supports stablecoin payments on Base, Ethereum, and Solana, with SDKs for TypeScript, Python, Go, and Java. The reference implementation is on Coinbase’s GitHub . The competitive landscape closing in around x402 Stripe and Tempo launched the Machine Payments Protocol (MPP) on March 18, 2026, alongside Tempo’s mainnet. MPP aggregates payments within an agent session and settles in bulk, similar in principle to x402’s new batched settlement but flowing into Stripe’s existing PaymentIntents API. Per WorkOS analysis , MPP gives merchants Stripe-grade fraud detection, tax handling, and reporting without the crypto compliance burden. Circle’s Nanopayments launched in March 2026 as an x402-compatible backend for sub-cent transfers using Gateway’s gas-free balance transfer mechanism. Bitcoin’s Lightning Network has pursued cheap off-chain payments for years. Solana keeps base-layer fees low natively. Polygon and other Ethereum scaling projects have experimented with AI micropayment systems. What x402 still has on the field is HTTP-native design. Instead of a separate payment app, payment authorization lives inside standard web requests. Whether that wins the agent-native market depends on developer adoption. Crypto projects have promised practical micropayments for years without breakthrough traction. AI infrastructure may finally provide the demand. If you're reading this, you’re already ahead. Stay there with our newsletter .
