TLDR:
- XRPL EVM Sidechain is now live with Ethereum compatibility and XRP as native gas token.
- Developers can deploy Solidity apps using MetaMask, Hardhat, and standard EVM tooling.
- Sidechain processes 1000 TPS with lower fees than Ethereum, optimized for Web3 scale.
- Projects like Strobe, Vertex, and Securd are building DeFi tools on the new sidechain.
The XRPL EVM Sidechain has officially launched on mainnet, enabling developers to deploy Ethereum-compatible smart contracts within the XRP Ledger ecosystem.
The rollout brings a new era of multichain functionality, combining XRPL’s stability with EVM’s programmable flexibility. Developers can now tap into the XRP Ledger’s liquidity while building on familiar Ethereum tools.
This move signals Ripple’s growing effort to enhance interoperability without disrupting the core structure of the XRPL. It also positions XRP for broader adoption across DeFi and other Web3 applications.
XRPL Unlocks EVM Compatibility with New Sidechain
The new sidechain, built in collaboration with Peersyst and Ripple, links to the main XRP Ledger using the Axelar bridge.
This setup gives developers access to a secure and compliant platform while expanding into Ethereum-based DeFi. XRP acts as the native gas token for the sidechain, maintaining alignment with the original ecosystem.
The bridge also enables seamless asset transfers between XRPL and over 80 other chains.
Axelar’s director, Georgios Vlachos, noted the sidechain’s potential to support institutional-grade interoperability. Squid serves as the official user interface for cross-chain transfers, improving user access across platforms.
Unlike Ethereum’s average 14-second block time, the XRPL EVM Sidechain processes faster and at lower cost, optimizing for high-volume applications. Developers can use familiar tools like Solidity, MetaMask, and Hardhat while gaining access to the 6 million XRP wallet user base.
With a Proof of Authority model, the sidechain reaches 1000 transactions per second. This performance standard opens doors for real-time financial applications. Validators include over 25 companies, building a decentralized but trusted network.
Projects Already Building on XRPL EVM Sidechain
Early adopters have started integrating DeFi services directly onto the XRPL EVM Sidechain.
These include protocols like Strobe for lending, Vertex for derivatives, and Securd for leveraged finance. Infrastructure partners like Band Protocol and Pocket Network are also supporting the sidechain with oracles and RPC access.
Tooling support comes from platforms like Blockscout for block exploration and Goldsky for custom data indexing. These services aim to accelerate developer onboarding and support scalable application growth across networks.
By offering EVM compatibility, XRPL removes the tradeoff developers previously faced between smart contract programmability and XRP’s reliability. The mainnet launch reflects a larger shift toward a connected, multi-chain ecosystem where XRP can serve as a key liquidity bridge.
Developers are encouraged to begin building using Grove’s public tools and full documentation available on the XRPL EVM site.
With Ethereum compatibility, direct XRP integration, and active ecosystem partners, the XRPL EVM Sidechain marks a major step in extending the XRP Ledger’s reach in the decentralized economy.
