Ripple President Monica Long recently discussed the growing importance of Stablecoins in today’s changing digital finance environment.
In a tweet after her appearance in Stripe Sessions, Ripple’s president shared some key insights in discussing why businesses can no longer afford to ignore Stablecoins.
It was great to be involved with @Stablecoin, @tryramp and @airtminc on stage in the @stripe session.
Some lessons we’ve learned over the years – 1/ Blockchain payment requires connection to local rails, and connectivity depends on the bank… pic.twitter.com/cvf54lxgeq
– Monica Long (@monicalongsf) May 9, 2025
Three major takeout ripples in a long overview outlined what they learned as they navigate the complex world of blockchain payments. First, blockchain payments require connections to local rails, and this connectivity relies on bank partners with regulatory comfort and clarity. “We’re in a better place now than we were two years ago,” she adds, implying that the global regulatory environment is gradually helping to integrate digital assets.
Despite the appeal of operating as a software-only provider, Long pointed out the key challenges of doing so. With more than 60 licenses now in stock worldwide, Ripple has opted for a compliance-first approach to ensure operation in a variety of jurisdictions.
As the market grows, Stablecoins needs liquidity across global currencies to compete with traditional Forex markets, calling this the “next industry challenge.”
As the Stablecoin market expands, RLUSD gains traction
Long’s comments come as the Stablecoin market expands, with Stablecoin’s total market capitalization recently exceeding $240 billion.
Ripple’s RLUSD Stablecoin has gained traction since its launch in December 2024. Ripple has announced the acquisition of Hidden Road, which integrates RLUSD into Ripple’s payments and uses RLUSD as collateral for clients, creating a critical bridge between crypto and traditional finance.
RLUSD has been available on new exchanges, including Kraken and, more recently, Gemini. It is used by Defi Luyitidity Pools such as Aave and Curve Finance.
RLUSD is now over $300 million at market valuation, currently at $316 million, according to data from CoinmarketCap. Over the past 24 hours, Ripple USD volume has skyrocketed 109% to over $186 million.
