Ripple revealed plans on August 7 to purchase stablecoin payments provider Rail for $200 million, marking its second major acquisition this year. The deal, scheduled to close in Q4 2025, positions Ripple to dominate the institutional stablecoin payments market currently valued at $36 billion globally.
The acquisition enables Ripple to combine Rail's payment network with its RLUSD stablecoin and XRP ecosystem. ——This creates the first enterprise-grade solution supporting both cryptocurrency and fiat payments through a single API——. Notably, the platform will eliminate crypto custody requirements for corporate users while offering:
• Multi-currency treasury management
• 24/7 cross-border settlements
• Built-in compliance screening tools
• Access to Rail's banking partner network
Rail currently processes 【10%】 of global stablecoin payments, according to Artemis Analytics. The merger follows Ripple's $1.25 billion purchase of prime broker Hidden Road in April, bringing total acquisition spending to $3 billion since 2024. Interestingly, the move coincides with Ripple's applications for regulatory approval in both the EU (MiCA) and Dubai's DIFC free zone.
Ripple's RLUSD stablecoin, launched in late 2024 with an institutional focus, has seen unexpected retail adoption. July 2025 data shows growing self-custody usage through wallets like Xaman and developer platform Transak. The company previously partnered with seven major exchanges including Bitstamp and Uphold for RLUSD distribution.
Industry observers note the acquisition comes as stablecoin payment volume is projected to grow 240% year-over-year. ——This strategic play could reshape corporate digital asset adoption—— particularly in emerging markets where Ripple maintains strong regulatory relationships.
The deal advances Ripple's global compliance strategy, building on recent approvals from Dubai's financial regulator. Meanwhile, the company continues navigating ongoing SEC litigation while expanding its European operations through MiCA licensing efforts. Analysts suggest these parallel developments demonstrate Ripple's unique positioning between traditional finance and crypto ecosystems.