28-4-2025 – The cryptocurrency XRP is poised to redefine the nation’s banking sector, with nearly four in five banks set to integrate it by 2025. This seismic shift underscores XRP’s burgeoning influence, as it surges past Ethereum to claim the mantle of Japan’s second most-traded digital asset, trailing only Bitcoin. According to a recent report from SBI Group, a titan in Japan’s cryptocurrency exchange arena, XRP’s trading volume last month eclipsed that of its rivals, cementing its status as a darling among Japanese investors.
The allure of XRP in Japan is no fleeting trend but the fruit of years of strategic groundwork by Ripple, the fintech innovator tethered to the cryptocurrency. Ripple’s relentless efforts to forge alliances with Japanese financial institutions have fostered a deep-seated trust in XRP, setting it apart in a crowded market. This trust has translated into robust trading activity, particularly on SBI VC Trade, where XRP’s transactions against the yen outstripped Ethereum’s, a notable upset given Ethereum’s usual dominance. Solana and Dogecoin, while popular, trailed further behind, securing fourth and fifth places respectively.
The momentum behind XRP extends beyond seasoned traders. Its recent debut on Mercoin, a leading Japanese marketplace platform, marks a pivotal step towards mainstream adoption. Mercoin’s vast user base, many of whom are novices in the crypto sphere, now have seamless access to XRP, broadening its reach and embedding it further into everyday financial activity. Emi Yoshikawa, a former Ripple executive, underscored the significance of this move, noting that Mercoin’s influx of first-time crypto buyers could propel XRP’s market presence to new heights.
At the heart of XRP’s ascent is its practical utility, particularly in cross-border payments. Yoshitaka Kitao, the visionary CEO of SBI Group, has championed XRP’s role in revolutionising international remittances via RippleNet, praising its real-world applicability. In a pointed critique, he contrasted XRP’s tangible value with Bitcoin’s perceived lack of intrinsic worth, framing XRP as a cornerstone of future financial systems.