XRP Ledger, Smart Contracts to Expand DeFi and User Acquisition Efforts by 2026

Source: TokenPost Original Title: XRP Ledger to Focus on DeFi and User Acquisition Expansion by 2026 Following Smart Contracts Original Link:

XRP Ledger’s Development Strategy for 2026

As XRP Ledger(XRPL) concludes 2025 with solid achievements in smart contracts, interoperability, and asset tokenization, there is a growing call for 2026 to focus on user-friendliness, decentralized finance(DeFi) liquidity, and support for scalable apps.

2025 Technological Progress

Vet, a major validator of XRPL, described 2025 as “an incredible year in many aspects.” Notably, development progress in smart contracts was evident. The launch of the alpha testnet created an environment where developers could deploy and test in real-world conditions, and community awareness increased significantly. This indicates that the technology has moved from concept to actual deployment.

DeFi Ecosystem Status

Decentralized finance(DeFi) has cooled off since the meme coin boom last year. XRP-based DeFi, which had a strong start during the meme coin frenzy at the end of 2024, saw activity decline over time. Nevertheless, activity on DEXs remains higher than before, maintaining a solid foundation. 2026 presents an opportunity to expand this into a more sustainable form.

Interoperability Improvements

In interoperability, Wormhole and Axelar bridges began actual operation last year. They connected assets with revenue-generating features to XRPL. Zero-knowledge proof(ZKP) opens possibilities for “trust-minimized bridges,” providing direction for future technological development.

Application Layer

Existing projects and wallets have been significantly improved in terms of functionality and UI. However, no new apps have yet captured the community’s attention. Improving user experience(UX) is effective for retaining existing users, but for large-scale expansion, a killer app that creates “gravity” is essential.

Tokenization Achievements and Challenges

XRPL’s tokenization achievements have been particularly strong around RLUSD. Various stablecoins and tokenized funds have emerged, but their circulation channels are still lacking. Merely issuing tokens is insufficient; liquidity and accessibility depend on integration with DeFi and real-use apps.

Key Tasks for 2026

Panos Mekras, co-founder of Anodos Finance, identified infrastructure improvements and incentive expansion as key tasks for 2026. Batch transaction(Batch transaction) and sponsorship fee features need to be implemented as soon as possible. These are crucial for reducing user friction and attracting mainstream users to XRPL.

Additionally, expanding the inflow of “real-world assets(RWA)” such as profit-generating stablecoins, stocks, and commodities is required. Most importantly, the XRPL Foundation should allocate substantial budgets to strengthen developer tools and foster consumer-oriented killer apps.

DeFi liquidity has also become a core focus. Low liquidity on automated market maker(AMM) based decentralized exchanges(DEX) hampers growth. A shift from a technology-focused development culture to one emphasizing profitability is necessary.

Currently, XRP(Ripple) is trading at $1.86(approximately 2,679 KRW).