Although cross-border payments have traditionally been hindered by slow processing times and high costs, the expanded partnership between Ripple and Thunes aims to transform this landscape by combining blockchain technology with a robust payment infrastructure spanning over 130 countries. This collaboration focuses on improving the efficiency and accessibility of international money transfers by integrating Ripple’s blockchain-based solutions with Thunes’ extensive Direct Global Network, which connects banks, digital wallets, and payment providers. The partnership seeks to reduce delays, lower transaction fees, and enhance transparency, particularly benefiting underserved regions that lack traditional banking infrastructure. This integration builds on their initial partnership established in 2020, expanding global financial connectivity through 130+ countries and 80 currencies.
Ripple contributes enterprise blockchain and liquidity solutions designed to enable real-time settlement and reduce costs, while Thunes provides seamless last-mile delivery through its well-established payment network. The integration of these platforms allows for instant cross-system transactions, which is essential for emerging markets dependent on mobile money services. Both companies incorporate automated anti-money laundering (AML) and know your customer (KYC) compliance tools, which help meet institutional regulatory standards and mitigate risks related to fraud and illicit activities. The blockchain infrastructure also increases transaction security and transparency, addressing common concerns in international payments. Recent market activity, including significant whale accumulation of XRP, underscores growing confidence in the long-term potential of these blockchain-based payment solutions.
Combining blockchain with extensive payment networks enables instant, secure, and compliant cross-border transactions for emerging markets.
One of the key advantages of this partnership is the dramatic improvement in speed and cost efficiency. Ripple’s On-Demand Liquidity (ODL) service, which utilizes the digital asset XRP, can reduce settlement times from several days to mere seconds, while cutting transaction fees by up to 80% compared to conventional methods reliant on correspondent banking. This accelerated access to funds is especially advantageous for migrant workers sending remittances to rural and underbanked populations, enabling faster and more affordable transfers. The resulting cost savings and increased speed facilitate smoother cross-border commerce for both businesses and individuals.
The collaboration also addresses financial inclusion by targeting the estimated 1.4 billion unbanked adults in emerging markets. By integrating with popular mobile money platforms such as M-Pesa in Kenya and GCash in the Philippines, the partnership expands access to financial services for those typically excluded from the formal banking system. Cross-border transactions supporting underbanked populations have already surpassed $2 billion and are expected to grow, empowering digital asset firms to provide compliant, scalable international payment solutions. While this progress is notable, stakeholders remain cautious about regulatory variability across jurisdictions, which could impact the pace of adoption.
