Ripple is executing a significant strategic pivot this week, realigning the XRP Ledger (XRPL) with a series of comprehensive updates. The network’s focus is shifting from open decentralized finance (DeFi) applications toward serving regulated financial institutions. While the XRP price continues to search for clear directional momentum, the underlying technological advancements are laying the groundwork for the traditional banking sector’s direct entry.
A New Layer for Compliant Trading
Central to this evolution is the implementation of update XLS-81, which introduces a “Permissioned DEX” layer. This new framework allows for the creation of trading venues with strict access controls, a departure from classic decentralized exchanges where anyone can trade anonymously. Participants on this layer are required to undergo identification checks (KYC) and adhere to anti-money laundering (AML) regulations.
The development is squarely aimed at banks and institutional investors. It provides them with a dedicated lane on the blockchain, enabling these entities to leverage the ledger’s speed for trading tokenized assets without compromising regulatory compliance requirements.
Whales Accumulate as Technology Expands
These foundational changes appear to be influencing major holders. On-chain data indicates that approximately 200 million XRP were withdrawn from the Binance exchange over the past ten days. Market observers frequently interpret such large-scale movements off exchanges as a signal of a long-term accumulation strategy.
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The technological scope of the XRPL is also broadening. The newly introduced x402 protocol enables AI agents to autonomously process payments using XRP or the RLUSD stablecoin, eliminating their dependency on traditional bank accounts.
Live Asset Tokenization in Dubai
Alongside the technical upgrades, Ripple is demonstrating a concrete use case. Reece Merrick, Ripple’s Managing Director for the Middle East, confirmed the commencement of the second phase of a real estate project with the Dubai Land Department. Investors can now trade shares in tokenized properties directly on the XRPL. This initiative is considered one of the first live examples of state-sanctioned trading of real-world assets (RWA) on a public blockchain.
Price Action and Analyst Outlook
Despite these structural advancements, the XRP price remains in the region of $1.40 following a recent correction. Reacting to broader market weakness, Bank Standard Chartered has adjusted its year-end 2026 price target, lowering it from more aggressive estimates to $2.80. The bank, however, maintains its view on the long-term importance of asset tokenization as a key value driver for the asset.
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