Recently, the Ripple USD (RLUSD) stablecoin has drawn attention not only from large enterprises but also from retail users. Initially marketed as a business-focused stablecoin, RLUSD has started gaining traction among a broader audience.
Introduction to Ripple USD
The Ripple USD stablecoin was officially introduced in late 2024. CEO Brad Garlinghouse emphasized its intended purpose for institutional clients, distinguishing RLUSD from competitors focused primarily on retail.
Debate over Business Focus
Initial reports about RLUSD emerged prior to its official announcement in December 2024. While Garlinghouse referred to it as the "gold standard for enterprise-grade stablecoins," Chief Technology Officer David Schwartz suggested that RLUSD would likely be available only to institutions, sparking debate on its intended exclusivity.
Popularity Among Retail Users
Despite its initial business focus, RLUSD has gained popularity among retail users. Currently, over 91% of the 34,160 RLUSD users are utilizing it through the XRP Ledger, showcasing its growing appeal. As Robert Kiuru, COO of Xaman, noted, "if RLUSD is being used by retail as well, that's a big win."
In conclusion, Ripple USD is showing dynamic growth, indicating interest from both enterprises and retail. This raises questions about whether RLUSD will remain a business-oriented product or expand among a wider audience.
