hodler

30 Apr 2026, 09:18

BTC Technical Analysis April 30, 2026: Sideways Indicator Trend, Support and Resistance, and Market Commentary

Bitcoin is maintaining its sideways trend around 76 thousand dollars; 75.784 support and 79.422 resistance are critical. Momentum is neutral, a cautious approach is recommended with the bearish MAC...

30 Apr 2026, 09:15

Edu-X Mock Trading Competition with 5.9 BNB Prize Pool Ends in Four Days: Last Chance to Win Big

BitcoinWorld Edu-X Mock Trading Competition with 5.9 BNB Prize Pool Ends in Four Days: Last Chance to Win Big The Edu-X mock trading competition , featuring a substantial 5.9 BNB prize pool , is set to conclude in just four days. This educational crypto mock investment platform event provides a risk-free environment for traders to sharpen their skills while competing for real rewards. With the deadline fast approaching, participants have a limited window to secure their positions on the leaderboard. Understanding the Edu-X Mock Trading Competition Edu-X positions itself as a leading educational platform for cryptocurrency trading. The mock trading competition allows users to practice trading strategies without using real funds. This approach helps beginners build confidence and experience. The platform simulates real market conditions. Participants can learn how to manage risk and make informed decisions. The competition began on April 20. It will end at 3:00 a.m. UTC on May 4. This gives participants just four more days to improve their rankings. The total prize pool of 5.9 BNB will be distributed among the top 50 participants. The distribution is based on final account balances. This structure rewards consistent performance and strategic trading. Prize Distribution Details The prize structure is tiered to reward top performers. The first-place winner receives 2 BNB . The second-place winner gets 1 BNB . The third-place winner takes home 0.5 BNB . Participants ranked fourth through tenth each receive 0.2 BNB . Those ranked eleventh through twenty-fifth get 0.1 BNB . Finally, participants ranked twenty-sixth through fiftieth receive 0.05 BNB each. All prizes are scheduled for distribution on May 13 . This timeline allows the platform to verify results and process payouts. Participants should ensure their accounts are properly configured to receive rewards. The use of BNB as the prize currency adds real-world value to the educational experience. Rank Prize (BNB) 1st 2.0 2nd 1.0 3rd 0.5 4th–10th 0.2 each 11th–25th 0.1 each 26th–50th 0.05 each Edu-X App Launch on Google Play In parallel with the competition, Edu-X has launched its official app on the Google Play Store. This move expands access to the platform. Users can now participate in mock trading directly from their mobile devices. The app provides a seamless experience for learning and competing on the go. The app launch represents a strategic step for Edu-X. Mobile access increases user engagement. It also allows for real-time monitoring of trading positions. The platform aims to attract a broader audience interested in crypto education. The app is available for download now, and it complements the ongoing competition. Why Mock Trading Matters for Crypto Education Mock trading platforms like Edu-X play a crucial role in the crypto ecosystem. They provide a safe environment for learning. Beginners can experiment with different strategies. They can understand market volatility without financial risk. This hands-on approach is more effective than theoretical learning alone. Experienced traders also benefit from mock competitions. They can test new algorithms or trading bots. They can refine their risk management techniques. The competitive element adds motivation. It encourages participants to perform at their best. The Edu-X mock trading competition exemplifies this educational model. Impact of the Competition on Participants Participants gain practical experience in a realistic trading environment. They learn to analyze market trends. They practice executing trades under time pressure. The competition simulates real-world scenarios. This prepares them for live trading with actual funds. The prize pool incentivizes serious participation. The top 50 winners receive BNB rewards. This adds a tangible outcome to the learning process. Even those who do not win gain valuable experience. The competition fosters a community of learners. It encourages knowledge sharing and collaboration. Timeline and Key Dates Competition Start: April 20 Competition End: May 4 at 3:00 a.m. UTC Prize Distribution: May 13 App Launch: Available now on Google Play Participants must ensure their accounts are active before the deadline. The final leaderboard will be determined at the end time. Any trades made after the deadline will not count. It is essential to plan trading activities accordingly. How to Participate in the Edu-X Mock Trading Competition To join the competition, users must register on the Edu-X platform. The process is straightforward. New users can create an account using their email or social media. After registration, they receive virtual funds for trading. These funds are used to build their portfolio. Participants can trade a variety of cryptocurrencies. The platform supports popular assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and BNB. Users can apply different trading strategies. They can use technical analysis tools provided by the platform. The goal is to maximize their final account balance. Tips for Success in the Competition Start Early: Begin trading as soon as possible to maximize time. Diversify: Spread investments across multiple assets to reduce risk. Monitor Markets: Stay updated on crypto news and price movements. Use Stop-Loss: Protect your virtual capital from major losses. Analyze Performance: Review your trades to identify strengths and weaknesses. These strategies can help improve rankings. The competition rewards consistent performance. Participants should avoid reckless trading. The mock environment allows for experimentation, but discipline remains important. Future of Edu-X and Mock Trading Platforms The success of this competition could lead to more events. Edu-X may expand its offerings. The platform could introduce advanced features. These might include real-time market data integration. They could also include social trading features where users follow top performers. The crypto education sector is growing rapidly. More individuals seek to understand digital assets. Mock trading platforms bridge the gap between theory and practice. They provide a foundation for informed investing. The Edu-X mock trading competition is part of this broader trend. Expert Perspective on Educational Trading Industry experts emphasize the value of simulated trading. According to financial educators, hands-on experience is critical. It helps users develop intuition about market dynamics. It also reduces the likelihood of costly mistakes in live trading. Platforms like Edu-X contribute to a more educated investor base. The use of BNB as a prize adds credibility. BNB is a well-established cryptocurrency. It has real-world utility on the Binance ecosystem. This makes the rewards meaningful. Participants can use their winnings for further education or investment. Conclusion The Edu-X mock trading competition with its 5.9 BNB prize pool offers a unique opportunity for crypto enthusiasts. It combines education with real rewards. The competition ends in four days, so participants must act quickly. The platform’s new app on Google Play enhances accessibility. This event underscores the importance of practical learning in the crypto space. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced trader, this competition provides valuable experience and the chance to win BNB. FAQs Q1: What is the Edu-X mock trading competition? The Edu-X mock trading competition is an educational event where participants trade virtual cryptocurrencies to compete for a prize pool of 5.9 BNB. It simulates real market conditions without using real funds. Q2: When does the competition end? The competition ends on May 4 at 3:00 a.m. UTC. Participants have four days from the current date to improve their rankings. Q3: How are prizes distributed? Prizes are distributed to the top 50 participants based on their final account balances. The first-place winner receives 2 BNB, with decreasing amounts for lower ranks. All prizes are scheduled for distribution on May 13. Q4: How can I participate in the competition? To participate, register on the Edu-X platform and start trading using virtual funds. The platform is also available as an app on Google Play for mobile access. Q5: Is the Edu-X app free to download? Yes, the Edu-X app is available for free download on the Google Play Store. It provides a mobile-friendly interface for trading and learning. This post Edu-X Mock Trading Competition with 5.9 BNB Prize Pool Ends in Four Days: Last Chance to Win Big first appeared on BitcoinWorld .

30 Apr 2026, 09:10

Alberta Investment Management Acquires $219M in MicroStrategy Stock, Bolstering Institutional Bitcoin Exposure

BitcoinWorld Alberta Investment Management Acquires $219M in MicroStrategy Stock, Bolstering Institutional Bitcoin Exposure In a landmark move for institutional cryptocurrency adoption, Alberta Investment Management Corporation (AIMCo), a Canadian government-backed asset manager, has purchased 1.38 million shares of MicroStrategy (MSTR) for approximately $219 million. This transaction, reported by BitcoinTreasuries.net, signals a deepening commitment to Bitcoin exposure through equity markets. This acquisition places AIMCo among the largest institutional holders of MicroStrategy stock. The purchase comes as MicroStrategy continues to lead corporate Bitcoin adoption, holding over 214,000 BTC on its balance sheet. For AIMCo, this investment provides indirect Bitcoin exposure without direct custody challenges. Alberta Investment MicroStrategy Stock: A Strategic Move AIMCo manages over $160 billion in assets for public sector pensions and endowments. By acquiring MSTR shares, the firm gains leveraged exposure to Bitcoin’s price movements. MicroStrategy’s stock price closely correlates with Bitcoin’s value, offering a regulated, liquid alternative to direct crypto holdings. This investment reflects a broader trend among institutional investors. Many pension funds and asset managers now seek Bitcoin exposure through equity vehicles. MicroStrategy serves as a proxy, allowing compliance with traditional investment mandates. Transaction size: $219 million Shares purchased: 1.38 million Reporting source: BitcoinTreasuries.net Investor type: Government-backed pension fund manager Why MicroStrategy Stock Attracts Institutional Capital MicroStrategy’s treasury strategy, led by executive chairman Michael Saylor, has transformed the software company into a Bitcoin development firm. The company issues convertible notes and uses proceeds to acquire Bitcoin. This strategy creates a self-reinforcing cycle of Bitcoin accumulation and stock appreciation. For institutions like AIMCo, MSTR offers several advantages: Regulatory clarity: Listed on NASDAQ, MSTR complies with SEC reporting requirements. Liquidity: High trading volume enables large block purchases without significant price impact. Leverage: MicroStrategy’s debt-funded Bitcoin purchases amplify returns relative to spot Bitcoin. Tax efficiency: Stock transactions may offer favorable tax treatment compared to direct crypto sales. Institutional Bitcoin Investment: A Growing Trend AIMCo’s purchase aligns with a global shift toward institutional Bitcoin exposure. Major players like BlackRock, Fidelity, and the State of Wisconsin Investment Board have allocated capital to Bitcoin ETFs or related equities. This trend validates Bitcoin as an institutional asset class. Canada has emerged as a leader in regulated crypto investment vehicles. The country approved spot Bitcoin ETFs in 2021, years before the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. AIMCo’s move reinforces Canada’s progressive stance on digital assets. Impact on MicroStrategy Stock Price and Market Sentiment News of the $219 million purchase may boost MSTR’s stock price. Large institutional buys signal confidence in MicroStrategy’s strategy. Analysts expect increased demand from other pension funds following AIMCo’s lead. However, risks remain. MicroStrategy’s stock volatility mirrors Bitcoin’s price swings. A sustained Bitcoin downturn could pressure MSTR’s share price and debt obligations. Institutions must weigh these risks against potential upside. Timeline of MicroStrategy’s Institutional Adoption MicroStrategy’s journey as a Bitcoin treasury company began in August 2020. Since then, the firm has executed multiple capital raises and Bitcoin purchases. Key milestones include: August 2020: First Bitcoin purchase of 21,454 BTC for $250 million. December 2020: Issued $650 million in convertible notes for additional Bitcoin buys. June 2021: Raised $500 million via senior secured notes. 2022–2023: Continued accumulation during bear market, averaging down cost basis. 2024: Announced intention to raise $2 billion for further Bitcoin acquisitions. AIMCo’s entry represents a significant endorsement during a period of Bitcoin price consolidation. The purchase suggests institutional confidence in Bitcoin’s long-term value proposition. Comparison: Direct Bitcoin vs. MicroStrategy Stock Investment Aspect Direct Bitcoin MicroStrategy Stock Custody Requires self-custody or third-party service Held in brokerage account Regulation Varies by jurisdiction SEC-regulated stock Liquidity 24/7 but variable Market hours, high liquidity Leverage No inherent leverage Debt-funded Bitcoin holdings Tax treatment Capital gains on crypto Stock capital gains, possible dividends Correlation to Bitcoin 1:1 ~1.5x to 2x Bitcoin price moves This table highlights why institutions may prefer MSTR. The stock offers operational leverage, regulatory comfort, and easier integration into existing portfolios. Expert Perspectives on the Alberta Investment MicroStrategy Stock Purchase Financial analysts view this transaction as a vote of confidence. “AIMCo’s move validates MicroStrategy as a gateway for institutional Bitcoin exposure,” says a senior analyst at a Toronto-based investment firm. “Pension funds require scale, liquidity, and compliance. MSTR delivers all three.” Another expert notes the timing. “This purchase occurs amid Bitcoin’s halving cycle and rising institutional interest. AIMCo likely sees MSTR as a way to capture Bitcoin upside while maintaining fiduciary responsibility.” Critics caution about concentration risk. MicroStrategy’s stock price could decline if Bitcoin drops or if the company faces debt repayment challenges. Institutions must monitor MicroStrategy’s leverage ratios and Bitcoin price trends. Future Implications for Canadian Pension Funds and Bitcoin AIMCo’s investment may prompt other Canadian pension funds to follow suit. The Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB) and Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan have already explored crypto-related investments. A broader shift could increase Bitcoin’s legitimacy as a pension asset. Regulatory developments will shape this trend. Canadian securities regulators have provided clear guidance on crypto investments. Continued clarity could accelerate institutional adoption. Conversely, stricter rules might slow momentum. Conclusion Alberta Investment Management’s $219 million purchase of MicroStrategy stock represents a pivotal moment for institutional Bitcoin investment. By acquiring 1.38 million MSTR shares, AIMCo gains leveraged exposure to Bitcoin within a regulated framework. This move underscores a growing trend among pension funds and asset managers seeking indirect crypto exposure. As MicroStrategy continues its Bitcoin accumulation strategy, more institutions may follow AIMCo’s lead, further integrating digital assets into traditional portfolios. FAQs Q1: Why did Alberta Investment Management buy MicroStrategy stock instead of Bitcoin directly? AIMCo likely chose MSTR for regulatory clarity, liquidity, and operational leverage. MicroStrategy’s stock provides Bitcoin exposure without the need for direct crypto custody, aligning with traditional investment mandates. Q2: How much Bitcoin does MicroStrategy hold? As of early 2025, MicroStrategy holds over 214,000 Bitcoin, making it the largest corporate Bitcoin holder. The company continues to acquire more through debt issuances and cash reserves. Q3: What is the correlation between MicroStrategy stock and Bitcoin price? MSTR’s stock price historically moves 1.5 to 2 times the percentage change in Bitcoin’s price. This leverage comes from MicroStrategy’s debt-funded Bitcoin purchases, amplifying both gains and losses. Q4: Is this investment risky for pension fund beneficiaries? Yes, Bitcoin’s volatility introduces risk. However, AIMCo’s diversified portfolio may absorb potential losses. The investment represents a small fraction of AIMCo’s $160 billion in assets under management. Q5: Will other Canadian pension funds follow AIMCo’s lead? It is possible. The Canada Pension Plan Investment Board and Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan have shown interest in digital assets. AIMCo’s move may encourage similar allocations, especially if Bitcoin’s regulatory environment remains favorable. This post Alberta Investment Management Acquires $219M in MicroStrategy Stock, Bolstering Institutional Bitcoin Exposure first appeared on BitcoinWorld .

30 Apr 2026, 09:09

Inside the 95 Trillion Shiba Inu Coin Wallet: Massive 800 Billion Transfer Sparks New Ryoshi Identity Speculation

A dormant 'Ryoshi-era' whale holding 16% of all Shiba Inu coins just moved 800 billion SHIB. Is the mysterious founder cashing out, or is this a liquidity play?.

30 Apr 2026, 09:05

Bithumb Suspends ZIL Deposits and Withdrawals: Critical Network Upgrade Deadline Approaches

BitcoinWorld Bithumb Suspends ZIL Deposits and Withdrawals: Critical Network Upgrade Deadline Approaches Bithumb, one of South Korea’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges, has announced a temporary suspension of deposits and withdrawals for Zilliqa (ZIL). The halt begins at 3:00 a.m. UTC on May 4, 2025. This move supports a scheduled network upgrade for the Zilliqa blockchain. Users must act before the deadline to avoid service interruptions. Bithumb Suspends ZIL Transactions: What Users Need to Know The exchange confirmed the suspension in an official notice on May 2, 2025. Deposits and withdrawals for ZIL will stop at 3:00 a.m. UTC on May 4. Trading of ZIL on Bithumb will continue during the maintenance period. However, users cannot move funds in or out of the platform. This is a standard procedure for blockchain upgrades. Many exchanges follow this pattern to prevent transaction failures or lost funds. Bithumb advises all users to complete pending ZIL transactions before the cutoff. After the upgrade, the exchange will resume services at a later, unannounced time. Users should monitor Bithumb’s official announcements for updates. The upgrade aims to improve network performance and security. Zilliqa is a high-throughput blockchain known for its sharding technology. This upgrade likely introduces protocol enhancements or bug fixes. Zilliqa Network Upgrade: Technical Context and Timeline The Zilliqa network upgrade targets specific improvements to its core protocol. Zilliqa uses sharding to process thousands of transactions per second. Upgrades often adjust shard allocation, consensus mechanisms, or smart contract capabilities. The exact scope of this upgrade remains undisclosed. However, similar events in the past included hard forks or parameter changes. The timeline is clear: suspension starts at 3:00 a.m. UTC on May 4. The upgrade itself will occur shortly after. Exchanges like Bithumb typically resume services within 24 to 48 hours. Users should not attempt to send ZIL during the suspension. Transactions may fail or result in permanent loss. The exchange will not credit funds sent during the halt. Historical Precedent: Exchange Suspensions During Upgrades Major exchanges routinely suspend deposits and withdrawals during network upgrades. Binance did the same for Ethereum’s Shapella upgrade in 2023. Coinbase paused Solana transactions during its network upgrade in 2024. These measures protect users from failed transactions and network instability. Bithumb follows industry best practices by issuing advance notice. The exchange has a history of transparent communication during such events. In 2024, Bithumb suspended deposits for another altcoin during a similar upgrade. Services resumed within 36 hours without major issues. This pattern suggests a smooth process for ZIL holders. However, delays can occur if the upgrade encounters unexpected problems. Users should plan for potential extended downtime. Impact on ZIL Holders and Traders The suspension affects several groups of users. Traders cannot move ZIL to external wallets or other exchanges. Arbitrage opportunities between Bithumb and other platforms will close temporarily. Long-term holders who keep ZIL on Bithumb face no direct risk. Their balances remain intact and accessible for trading. However, they cannot withdraw to cold storage until services resume. Active traders should review their positions before the deadline. If they plan to move ZIL off the exchange, they must do so before 3:00 a.m. UTC on May 4. After the suspension, only internal transfers and trading remain possible. The ZIL market on Bithumb may experience reduced liquidity. Some traders might shift to other exchanges during the halt. Comparison with Other Exchange Policies Different exchanges handle network upgrades differently. Some suspend all services, including trading. Others only pause deposits and withdrawals. Bithumb’s approach is moderate. It keeps trading active while blocking fund movements. This allows price discovery to continue. Users can still buy or sell ZIL on the platform. However, they cannot transfer funds to take advantage of price differences elsewhere. Upbit, another Korean exchange, often follows similar procedures. Coinbase sometimes suspends trading entirely for major upgrades. Bithumb’s policy balances user convenience with network safety. The exchange prioritizes preventing transaction errors over full service continuity. How to Prepare for the ZIL Suspension Users should take specific steps before the deadline. First, check their ZIL balance on Bithumb. Second, complete any pending withdrawal requests. Third, if they need to move ZIL to a hardware wallet or another exchange, they should do so now. Fourth, review their trading strategies. If they plan to trade ZIL during the suspension, they can still do so. Fifth, bookmark Bithumb’s official announcement page for updates. Do not attempt to deposit ZIL after the suspension starts. The transaction will fail, and funds may be lost. Bithumb will not recover them. Similarly, do not send ZIL from Bithumb to an external address. The withdrawal will not process. The exchange will cancel it automatically. Zilliqa’s Broader Market Position in 2025 Zilliqa remains a significant player in the blockchain space. Its sharding technology provides scalability advantages. The network supports decentralized applications, smart contracts, and tokenization. As of early 2025, ZIL ranks among the top 100 cryptocurrencies by market capitalization. The upcoming upgrade could enhance its competitive position. Network upgrades often trigger price volatility. In the past, ZIL experienced price increases before major upgrades. However, this is not guaranteed. The suspension itself may create short-term selling pressure. Traders unable to move funds might sell their ZIL on Bithumb. This could temporarily depress prices. After services resume, the market may stabilize. Expert Perspectives on Scheduled Maintenance Industry analysts view scheduled maintenance positively. It shows the exchange and network prioritize security and performance. “Regular upgrades are essential for blockchain health,” says a blockchain security expert. “Exchanges that coordinate with these upgrades demonstrate operational maturity.” Users should not panic. The suspension is a routine technical procedure. Another expert notes that communication is key. “Bithumb’s advance notice gives users time to prepare. This reduces confusion and potential losses.” The exchange’s track record supports this view. Previous suspensions have been resolved efficiently. Conclusion Bithumb suspends ZIL deposits and withdrawals for a critical network upgrade starting May 4, 2025. Users must complete transactions before the 3:00 a.m. UTC deadline. Trading continues during the halt, but fund movements stop. The upgrade aims to improve Zilliqa’s network performance and security. Bithumb follows industry best practices with clear communication. Users should monitor official channels for resumption updates. This temporary measure protects user funds and ensures a smooth upgrade process. FAQs Q1: When does Bithumb suspend ZIL deposits and withdrawals? A1: The suspension begins at 3:00 a.m. UTC on May 4, 2025. Users must complete all transactions before this time. Q2: Can I still trade ZIL on Bithumb during the suspension? A2: Yes, trading of ZIL on Bithumb will continue normally. Only deposits and withdrawals are paused. Q3: What happens if I send ZIL to Bithumb after the suspension? A3: The deposit will fail, and the funds may be lost. Bithumb will not credit them to your account. Q4: How long will the suspension last? A4: Bithumb has not announced an exact resumption time. Typically, services resume within 24 to 48 hours after the upgrade. Q5: Why is Bithumb suspending ZIL services? A5: The suspension supports a scheduled network upgrade for the Zilliqa blockchain. This upgrade improves network performance and security. This post Bithumb Suspends ZIL Deposits and Withdrawals: Critical Network Upgrade Deadline Approaches first appeared on BitcoinWorld .

30 Apr 2026, 09:03

XRP Price Falls 62% From 2025 Peak Amid Ripple’s RLUSD Push

RLUSD is expanding rapidly across OKX, Bullish, and Ethereum L2s. Around 82% of the stablecoin sits on Ethereum chains. XRP remains 62% below its 2025 peak despite strong ecosystem growth. It has been a big week for the payments giant, Ripple. From high-visibility billboards across Las Vegas to a wave of new RLSUD integrations, the company is clearly accelerating its global presence. But these major milestones haven’t reflected on the XRP price. The token continues to lag, trading 62% below its 2025 peak. It is worth noting that much of the current buzz is centred around Ripple’s stablecoin, RLUSD. In the last 24 hours, the RLUSD stablecoin has gone live on OKX, entered institutional trading flows on Bullish, and expanded into Ethereum L2 ecosystems. This underscores that RLUSD is becoming central to Ripple’s strategy. But does this indicate that the company is sidelining XRP? Beneath the headlines, there’s a growing disconnect. A large share of RLUSD is now on Ethereum. Much of its usage bypasses XRP entirely. This shift is prompting fresh debate over whether XRP is still the main value driver. Unveiling Ripple’s RLUSD Expansion Across Chains In just a couple of days, Ripple has successfully expanded RLUSD , its fiat-backed stablecoin, into multiple platforms. While this looks appealing for XRP, a closer look unveils that the stablecoin is expanding in ways that are largely independent of XRP. RLUSD Goes Live on OKX One of the biggest updates was from OKX, a prominent crypto exchange. OKX listed RLUSD across more than 280 trading pairs. This is a major liquidity boost on paper. It puts the stablecoin in front of a massive global user base and allows both retail and institutional traders to access it. Here, what’s more noteworthy is its off-chain execution. OKX trades on RLUSD can be done within its centralised order book. This means that they do not interact directly with the XRP Ledger or XRP. Institutional Use Expands Via Bullish Another key development is RLUSD’s integration into institutional trading flows. Through Bullish, Ripple Prime clients can now use RLUSD as collateral to trade Bitcoin options. This is a major step towards placing RLUSD as a serious financial instrument. The post, released on April 29, read, “Bullish options markets are now live for institutional clients of Ripple Prime, giving direct access to Bullish’s BTC options alongside existing access to spot, perpetuals and dated futures. Trading is available via existing sub-accounts with no additional KYC requirements.” The development also signals growing institutional adoption. By enabling the stablecoin to function as collateral, Ripple is placing it directly into a high-value trading environment. Here, too, XRP is not part of the process. The options are settled in the stablecoin, and the collateral is posted in the same. XRP doesn’t play a role in margin, settlement, or execution. RLUSD Positioned as a SWIFT Alternative A key milestone that Reece Merrick, the Managing Director for the Middle East and Africa, has shared is the use of RLUSD as an alternative to SWIFT. It is worth noting that he has positioned the stablecoin, not XRP, as the asset that companies will consider for global payments. His message comes amid Ripple’s expansion in the UAE , opening a new Middle East and Africa regional headquarters at the Dubai International Financial Centre. Merrick also highlighted the company’s ongoing collaboration with DIFC. It is worth noting that Ripple has become the first blockchain payments provider to receive a license from the Dubai Financial Services Authority. Its stablecoin has been recognized as an approved crypto token within the DIFC. Merrick noted, “From our earliest days in the UAE, we have seen first-hand the appetite from local businesses for regulated, blockchain-powered payment infrastructure, an appetite that is only growing. A larger team, based here in Dubai, will enable us to go further in supporting our clients and partners across the region and beyond.” Expansion into Ethereum L2s Perhaps the most significant development is RLUSD’s expansion beyond XRPL into Ethereum’s L2 spaces. Ripple has confirmed plans to extend RLUSD to networks like Base, Optimism, Ink, and Unichain via Wormhole’s cross-chain infrastructure. Ethereum L2s offer large user bases, active DeFi ecosystems, and strong developer activity. By placing RLUSD on these chains, Ripple is tapping into that liquidity and usage. But these networks do not rely on XRP. Minting and transferring RLUSD on Ethereum L2 does not require interaction with the XRPL. As a result, every new integration in this space increases the stablecoin’s footprint- not XRP. The numbers already reflect this shift. Around 82% of the Ripple stablecoin supply is now on Ethereum. This is significantly high compared to the 18% on RLUSD. Why RLUSD Growth Isn’t Translating Into XRP Demand? The main reason RLUSD growth isn’t boosting the XRP demand is based on the way it is used. Most activity of the stablecoin happens on centralized platforms like OKX, where trades are done off-chain. This eliminates the need for XRP in each transaction. The token is needed only when the stablecoin is moved in or out through the XRP Ledger. At the same time, RLUSD’s major presence on Ethereum is also another major reason. While these systems do not rely on XRP, the stablecoin activity goes on independently. Interestingly, the payments company is investing heavily to boost the stablecoin’s growth. The team is increasingly positioning it as a major player in the ecosystem. But the Ripple coin is not seeing the same impact . The XRP price is down by 62% from its 2025 peak. The broader momentum has also slowed. Can the Stablecoin Growth Be a Positive Catalyst for XRP? At the present moment, the growth of the Ripple stablecoin is not a driver of the XRP token. But can it act as a positive catalyst? Of course, yes. But it needs to change the way the stablecoin is used. Currently, most of the activity surrounding the stable token happens outside the XRP Ledger. This limits the cryptocurrency’s role. If the activity is moved to XRPL, it could increase the role of XRP and thus push its demand. The supply of the stablecoin also plays a key role. The 82% supply on Ethereum is again limiting the position of XRPL and the altcoin. For the altcoin to benefit, a balance needs to be kept, with more stablecoins being issued on the XRP Ledger.