Ripple’s reported 1 billion XRP escrow release does not mean the full amount entered circulation or reached cryptocurrency exchanges. Standard Chartered has launched RLUSD custody through its
- Ripple’s reported 1 billion XRP escrow release does not mean the full amount entered circulation or reached cryptocurrency exchanges.
- Standard Chartered has launched RLUSD custody through its regulated DIFC branch, giving eligible institutions access to bank-backed asset protection.
- Ripple, Standard Chartered and LMAX are preparing a collateral arrangement for eligible RLUSD holdings across institutional trading services.
RLUSD custody is gaining institutional support as Ripple manages XRP escrow releases and expands stablecoin services. Standard Chartered has launched custody support, while a separate collateral arrangement remains under development.
Ripple’s Monthly XRP Release Draws Attention
ALLINCRYPTO (@RealAllinCrypto) reported that Ripple had unlocked 1 billion XRP from escrow. The account cautioned readers against interpreting the release as an immediate market sale. Ripple routinely returns substantial portions of its monthly releases to escrow.
https://twitter.com/RealAllinCrypto/status/2117013995211080175?a=EeIksakUc1PZGxaUCRc&s=20
The escrow system follows a scheduled release structure established by Ripple. Tokens become available each month under previously created contracts. Ripple can use portions while returning unused amounts to new escrow agreements.
Consequently, the gross release figure does not represent new exchange supply. Some tokens may remain in company-controlled wallets or support business operations. Their subsequent movement determines whether additional supply reaches active markets.
Traders must distinguish escrow releases from completed market transactions. Transfers to exchanges, internal movements and actual sales are separate events. Without verified transaction records, a billion-token sell-off cannot be assumed.
Standard Chartered Launches RLUSD Custody
Standard Chartered announced its RLUSD custody service on October 12, 2026. The service supports Ripple’s dollar-backed stablecoin issued on the XRP Ledger. Eligible institutional clients can access it through the bank’s DIFC branch.
The branch operates under Dubai Financial Services Authority regulation. Clients gain access to Standard Chartered’s digital asset custody infrastructure. This gives institutions another established banking provider for safeguarding RLUSD holdings.
RLUSD and XRP serve different functions within Ripple’s ecosystem. RLUSD is designed to maintain a value linked to the U.S. dollar. There is still no native token of the XRP Ledger, and the coin XRP is used for separate purposes.
XRP was at the time of writing trading near $1.25. That market price does not directly measure demand for RLUSD. Stablecoin custody and XRP trading activity require separate assessment.
Ripple and LMAX Prepare a Collateral Arrangement
The announcement also covered planned cooperation involving Ripple, Standard Chartered and LMAX Group. The companies intend to make eligible RLUSD holdings usable as collateral. The proposed arrangement covers agreed trading and collateral management products.
Under the proposed model, Standard Chartered retains custody of underlying RLUSD. LMAX receives a mirrored value for eligible collateral holdings. Clients would not need to transfer tokens directly to the trading venue.
This might mitigate operational risk transfer-related issues for institutional clients.It can also help reduce counterparty risk and leverage capital usage. The collateral service is not yet available, however.
The companies still must complete documentation and successfully test. Other rules, approvals and readiness of jurisdictions should also be met. Additional information will be provided as implementation takes place.
Standard Chartered provides custody, while LMAX supplies institutional trading infrastructure. Ripple provides RLUSD, connecting the three companies within the proposed arrangement. Each participant handles a different part of the planned service.
For Ripple, this arrangement could extend RLUSD beyond ordinary stablecoin transfers. Institutions may eventually hold assets with a bank while using their value for trading. Actual adoption will depend on implementation and client participation.