Ripple’s RLUSD Gains Traction with Gemini Listing and Major Educational Donation

Ripple’s stablecoin RLUSD has secured a significant listing on Gemini, a prominent US-based cryptocurrency exchange known for its robust security and regulatory compliance. In a parallel move, Ripple has donated $25 million in RLUSD to support US education, showcasing the company’s dedication to both financial innovation and social responsibility.

• RLUSD listed on Gemini
• $25 million donated to US education
• No new RLUSD minted since April 25, 2025

Launched in early December 2024, RLUSD has been making waves in the stablecoin market, quickly gaining traction and utility. Its listing on Gemini, following successful listings on exchanges like Bullish, Bitstamp, and LMAX Digital, signifies a growing acceptance within the crypto community. Gemini’s reputation for security and compliance positions RLUSD to challenge the dominance of established stablecoins like USDT and USDC. For those new to the scene, a stablecoin like RLUSD aims to maintain a stable value, often pegged to a fiat currency like the US dollar, making it a reliable medium of exchange and store of value within the often wild world of crypto.

In a move that aligns with broader trends in corporate philanthropy, Ripple announced a significant $25 million donation in RLUSD to support US education. This donation, made during Teacher Appreciation Week, will benefit organizations such as DonorsChoose and Teach For America. Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse emphasized the company’s commitment to education, stating,

“Ripple has partnered with these organizations to benefit thousands of classrooms across the US.”

Aneesh Sohoni, CEO of Teach For America, expressed enthusiasm about the donation, noting,

“This funding will expand our Ignite Tutoring Fellows program, drive innovation in our Reinvention Lab, and provide crucial financial assistance to thousands of new corps members during their teacher preparation.”

This initiative not only underscores Ripple’s social responsibility but also demonstrates RLUSD’s practical utility beyond just being a digital currency. And let’s be honest, in a world where education often gets the short end of the stick, this kind of support is nothing short of a game-changer.

However, while RLUSD continues to gain ground, its minting activity has paused since April 25, 2025. The last minting event saw 38 million RLUSD minted and 15 million burned, leaving a current circulating supply of 317.04 million RLUSD. The halt in minting could be a strategic move by Ripple to manage supply and demand dynamics or a reflection of current market conditions. RLUSD is minted on both the XRP Ledger and Ethereum blockchains, with Ethereum being the more frequently used platform due to its established ecosystem. This dual-blockchain approach allows RLUSD to leverage the strengths of both networks, enhancing its flexibility and reach.

The stablecoin market is witnessing a surge in interest due to the stability and utility these assets offer. RLUSD’s growth, with its market capitalization reaching $316.88 million and ranking 217th in the market, reflects its increasing relevance. Initially targeting enterprise use, RLUSD has expanded its utility to serve as collateral on DeFi platforms, centralized finance applications, and facilitate donations for nonprofit organizations. DeFi, or decentralized finance, refers to financial services built on blockchain technology, while centralized finance applications are traditional financial services managed by centralized entities. For those who’ve been living under a rock, minting refers to the creation of new tokens, and burning is the process of permanently removing tokens from circulation.

CryptoQuant’s J.A. Maartunn attributes RLUSD’s recent momentum on the XRP Ledger to lower transaction fees and swift integration into the XRP Ledger’s DeFi ecosystem, anticipating further adoption, particularly in Europe due to regulatory changes like the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA). MiCA, by the way, is a set of EU regulations aimed at bringing more clarity and security to the crypto market, which could lead to more stablecoins like RLUSD getting the spotlight.

Despite its impressive growth, RLUSD still lags behind major stablecoins like USDC and USDT in terms of market capitalization. The current minting pause coincides with discussions about Ripple’s possible acquisition of stablecoin issuer Circle, which could have significant implications for RLUSD’s future strategy and market presence. Additionally, the XRP Ledger has been outshining Ethereum in terms of RLUSD supply growth, sparking discussions about the efficiency and adoption of different blockchain platforms for stablecoin operations.

While RLUSD’s listing on Gemini and the substantial educational donation mark significant milestones, the pause in minting and the broader market context raise questions about its future trajectory. Ripple’s strategic moves, including potential acquisitions and the dual-blockchain approach, will be crucial in determining RLUSD’s role in the evolving world of stablecoins.

As we champion decentralization and financial disruption, it’s important to recognize that RLUSD’s journey reflects the broader challenges and opportunities within the crypto space. While it’s exciting to see stablecoins like RLUSD pushing boundaries, we must remain vigilant about the potential pitfalls, such as regulatory hurdles and market manipulation. It’s a delicate dance between innovation and regulation, and RLUSD’s success will depend on navigating this landscape effectively.

On the flip side, as a bitcoin maximalist, one might argue that stablecoins like RLUSD are just a stopgap solution, and the true future lies in Bitcoin’s potential to become the world’s reserve currency. However, altcoins and other blockchains like Ethereum play crucial roles in filling niches that Bitcoin might not serve well, and RLUSD’s dual-blockchain approach is a testament to this diversity within the crypto ecosystem.

Key Questions and Takeaways

• What is RLUSD?

  RLUSD is Ripple’s stablecoin launched in December 2024, designed to maintain a stable value and facilitate transactions on the XRP Ledger and Ethereum blockchains.

• Why is the listing of RLUSD on Gemini significant?

  Listing RLUSD on Gemini increases its visibility and accessibility to a broader audience, enhancing its market presence.

• How is Ripple supporting US education?

  Ripple donated $25 million in RLUSD to DonorsChoose and Teach For America, aiming to benefit thousands of classrooms across the US.

• What blockchain platforms support RLUSD?

  RLUSD is minted on both the XRP Ledger and Ethereum blockchains, with Ethereum being used more frequently.

• Why hasn’t any new RLUSD been minted since April 25, 2025?

  The pause in minting could be due to strategic decisions or market conditions affecting the need for new supply.

• What are the potential challenges and opportunities for RLUSD?

  RLUSD faces both regulatory hurdles and market competition, but its dual-blockchain approach and utility in various applications present significant opportunities for growth.

• How does RLUSD fit into the broader crypto ecosystem?

  RLUSD serves as a stablecoin that complements Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, offering stability and utility in areas where Bitcoin might not be as effective.