Ripple’s recent move to integrate USDC on the XRP Ledger has reignited debate in the crypto space—some see it as progress, others as a pivot born from necessity. Behind the headlines, a deeper story is emerging: while Ripple chases stablecoin utility, Stellar appears to be years ahead in real-world deployment and adoption.
Ripple’s native stablecoin, RLUSD, launched with much anticipation—but according to blockchain data, it has fallen flat. With under 50,000 trustlines and limited adoption across wallets or payment rails, RLUSD has failed to attract meaningful usage since its release.
Faced with this, Ripple is now introducing Circle’s USDC to the XRP Ledger. While this may enhance stablecoin availability on the network, many analysts argue it's a fallback rather than a step forward.
In contrast, Stellar integrated USDC all the way back in 2021. Since then, it has established itself as a practical, real-world payments platform. The Stellar network now boasts:
This isn’t theoretical or speculative. On Stellar, USDC is already used for cross-border payments, business transactions, and humanitarian aid distribution, including through partnerships with the United Nations.
While Ripple’s push to bring USDC to XRP may make headlines, it doesn't necessarily increase the utility of the XRP token itself. Critics warn that without a strong native use case, XRP risks being diluted in a multichain stablecoin landscape—especially when networks like Stellar already offer working systems with proven adoption.
As one blockchain expert put it: “You can replicate features, but you can’t replicate years of real-world use.”
Stellar isn’t stopping at USDC. It has also integrated PYUSD, is rolling out smart contracts via the Soroban platform, and continues to collaborate with major institutions like Franklin Templeton and WisdomTree. Its network powers everything from fintech startups to public aid distribution programs—firmly rooting it in both enterprise and grassroots ecosystems.
Ripple’s move to adopt USDC may expand access to stablecoins on its ledger, but it also highlights deeper questions about XRP’s long-term utility and strategy. Meanwhile, Stellar has quietly built a comprehensive infrastructure that’s already solving real-world problems.
In the race for stablecoin relevance, Stellar isn’t just ahead—it may have already crossed the finish line.
June 2025, Cryptoniteuae