XRP Ledger Connects to Axelar Network, Expanding Cross-Chain Reach

The XRP Ledger has expanded its reach across blockchain networks thanks to a new integration with Axelar's interoperability network. The partnership enables seamless cross-chain transfers of supported assets, including XRP, between more than 80 blockchains. This development marks the culmination of a collaboration that began in at least 2024.

Axelar operates as a decentralized network connecting disparate blockchains and handles token wrapping and unwrapping mechanics through its Interchain Token Service. Users can send XRP from the XRP Ledger, which is then made available on chains such as Ethereum, Avalanche, Polygon, or other supported networks. Squid provides the user interface layer for moving assets, abstracting away complexity.

The integration addresses a historical limitation of the XRP Ledger's isolation from the broader DeFi ecosystem, with most DeFi protocols running on EVM-compatible chains. The XRPL EVM Sidechain solves this by providing an Ethereum-compatible environment that runs alongside the main ledger. Ripple CTO David Schwartz has emphasized the importance of EVM compatibility for expanding XRP's reach into institutional use cases.

The immediate implication of this integration is increased utility for XRP, as an asset able to move across 80-plus chains has more potential use cases than one confined to a single ledger. However, investors should monitor adoption metrics in the coming months, including the volume of wrapped XRP flowing through Axelar and which destination chains attract the most volume.