Ripple launches RLUSD stablecoin in Japan with SBI - CFOtech Asia — 2026-06-26

## Short Segments Ripple's RLUSD stablecoin launches in Japan, marking a significant regulatory milestone. Coming up, the Bank of Thailand prepares to unveil new rules for a Thai Baht stablecoin, the U.S. GENIUS Act sets a framework for stablecoin regulation, BitGo refocuses on AI and stablecoins after staff cuts, and Base delays its Beryl hard fork due to registry issues. The Bank of Thailand is set to unveil new rules for a Thai Baht stablecoin. The central bank is preparing regulatory guidelines expected to be announced between 2026 and early 2027. This stablecoin aims to enhance payment and settlement efficiency within Thailand's financial infrastructure, rather than serving as a speculative investment. One potential application being explored is its use in carbon credit markets, supporting Thailand's transition to a low-carbon economy. The Finance Ministry also plans to introduce a 10 billion baht stablecoin backed by government bonds by 2025, aiming to broaden public access to digital investments. These developments highlight Thailand's strategic move towards integrating stablecoins into its financial ecosystem, potentially setting a precedent for other nations in the region. The GENIUS Act establishes a regulatory framework for U.S. stablecoins. Signed into law on July 18, 2025, this landmark legislation sets rules for issuing dollar-backed stablecoins, including requirements for backing, redemption, and regulatory oversight. The act is the first major crypto legislation in the U.S., creating licensing and regulatory requirements for domestic payment stablecoin issuers. By providing a clear legal framework, the GENIUS Act aims to foster innovation while ensuring consumer protection and financial stability. This move could pave the way for increased adoption of stablecoins in the U.S. financial system, offering a model for other countries to follow. BitGo cuts 15% of its staff to refocus on AI infrastructure and stablecoins. The crypto infrastructure firm announced the layoffs as a one-time action, with no further reductions anticipated. CEO Mike Belshe stated that the company will now concentrate on key areas such as security, trading, stablecoins, settlement, and AI-powered infrastructure. This strategic shift aims to streamline operations and maintain competitiveness in the rapidly evolving crypto landscape. By reallocating resources, BitGo seeks to enhance its core offerings and capitalize on emerging opportunities in the digital asset space. Base delays its Beryl hard fork due to a B20 registry timing issue. The Ethereum layer-two network backed by Coinbase postponed the mainnet upgrade to June 26 to allow the B20 Activation Registry to become fully operational. The Beryl upgrade introduces a new native token standard and reduces the single-proof withdrawal window from 7 days to 5 days. This delay underscores the complexities involved in coordinating blockchain upgrades and the importance of ensuring all components are ready for a smooth transition. Base's next upgrade, Cobalt, is planned for September 2026, featuring account abstraction. ## Feature Story Ripple's RLUSD stablecoin launches in Japan with SBI, marking a significant regulatory milestone. Japan's Financial Services Agency has approved Ripple's dollar-pegged stablecoin RLUSD as a "Type 4" Electronic Payment Instrument under the country's updated Payment Services Act. This approval allows RLUSD to be offered to both institutional and retail users through SBI VC Trade's VCTRADE platform. The launch of RLUSD in Japan represents a major step for Ripple, as it navigates one of Asia's most tightly regulated digital asset markets. Japan's recent reshaping of its stablecoin rules, effective June 1, has opened the door for qualifying foreign stablecoins to operate as regulated payment instruments. This regulatory clarity is crucial for Ripple, as it seeks to expand its stablecoin offerings in a market known for its stringent compliance standards. However, the launch has not been without controversy. Some reports suggest that the announcement of RLUSD going live in Japan lacks public confirmation from Ripple, SBI VC Trade, or Japan's Financial Services Agency. This uncertainty highlights the challenges of navigating regulatory landscapes and the importance of clear communication from involved parties. For issuers and custodians, the approval of RLUSD in Japan could signal a growing acceptance of stablecoins as legitimate payment instruments, potentially influencing other markets to follow suit. For developers and enterprises, this development underscores the need to align with regulatory frameworks to ensure compliance and foster trust among users. As the stablecoin market continues to evolve, the successful integration of RLUSD in Japan could serve as a blueprint for future cross-border stablecoin initiatives. Looking ahead, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how RLUSD performs in Japan and whether it can gain traction among both institutional and retail users. The outcome could have significant implications for the broader adoption of stablecoins in regulated markets worldwide.