XRP stablecoin RLUSD is set to make its debut in Japan, as Ripple and SBI Holdings announce their strategic partnership aimed at tapping the nation’s evolving stablecoin market.

RLUSD Launch Brings Secure Stablecoin Option to Japan

Ripple and SBI Holdings have signed a memorandum of understanding to introduce the Ripple USD (RLUSD) stablecoin in Japan’s market by the first quarter of 2026. Under the new collaboration, SBI VC Trade—licensed as an Electronic Payment Instruments Exchange Service Provider—will serve as the local distributor.

Originally launched in December 2024, RLUSD marks Ripple’s entrance into the stablecoin space. The digital asset is fully collateralized by U.S. dollar deposits, short-term U.S. Treasuries, and equivalent highly liquid assets. Its backing is validated through monthly attestations by an independent third-party firm, providing a strong compliance and transparency framework.

Focus on Regulatory Clarity and Institutional Trust

Ripple has prioritized regulatory clarity in the RLUSD offering, emphasizing that the stablecoin is tailored for institutional trust and real-world utility. According to Jack McDonald, Ripple’s senior vice president of stablecoins, RLUSD is designed to be a foundational layer that seamlessly connects traditional finance systems with emerging decentralized ecosystems. “RLUSD is a true industry standard, enabling reliably regulated value transfer between Web2 and Web3 networks,” said McDonald.

This structural transparency and emphasis on compliance are what Ripple believes will distinguish RLUSD from other digital stablecoins already present in international markets.

SBI’s Role and Vision for Japan’s Digital Finance Future

Tomohiko Kondo, CEO of SBI VC Trade, pointed out that the introduction of RLUSD will not only bring diversity to Japan’s digital currency options but also enhance the reliability and accessibility of stablecoins across financial and trading platforms in the country. “The introduction of RLUSD expands user choices and moves the digital currency ecosystem toward greater trust and usability,” Kondo stated.

Japan’s ongoing push toward regulatory maturity in crypto and stablecoin governance is also encouraging global players like Ripple to establish secure digital infrastructure in the region. Earlier this week, Japan approved the first yen-backed stablecoin, signaling a more stable foundation for regulated digital assets.

Ripple-SBI Collaboration Deepens Asia Blockchain Ties

Ripple and SBI Holdings have been long-standing partners in Asia’s blockchain development initiatives. From cross-border payments to digital asset liquidity, the firms have collaborated on various infrastructure projects across the region. The rollout of RLUSD further cements their strategic alliance and signals their shared intent to lead in regulatory-compliant digital currency offerings in Asia.

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As Japan’s stablecoin policy landscape matures and opens to more regulated players, the launch of RLUSD could mark a pivotal moment in the adoption of compliant digital assets in the Asia-Pacific region.