Ripple and Singapore-based payments infrastructure provider Thunes announced on September 2 an expanded partnership aimed at transforming global cross-border payments through blockchain technology. The collaboration, first established in 2020, now responds to rising demand for digital financial services by improving payout efficiency, widening currency availability, and simplifying money movement across borders.
Collaboration Details
Thunes disclosed that the integration of Ripple’s blockchain-powered payments platform with its Direct Global Network will enhance withdrawal capabilities for Ripple’s institutional clients in additional markets. Thunes continues to prioritize reliable last-mile delivery in regions with limited banking infrastructure. According to Thunes, “the partnership will enhance the reach and efficiency of its network, providing businesses and end users with fast, secure, and accessible financial services. Thunes is also utilizing Ripple Payments to enhance its Smartx Treasury System.”
Technology Integration and Benefits
The Smartx Treasury System is Thunes’ liquidity and treasury management platform designed to streamline cross-border payments. It offers real-time or locked FX rates, AI-driven liquidity forecasting, automated currency conversions, and 24/7 access to funds including stablecoins, enabling faster, transparent, and cost-effective global settlements. The system operates on Thunes’ Direct Global Network, which supports real-time payments in over 130 countries and more than 80 currencies, directly connecting to over 7 billion mobile wallets and bank accounts worldwide, along with 15 billion cards through more than 320 payment methods, including Gcash, M-Pesa, Airtel, MTN, Orange, Jazzcash, Easypaisa, Alipay, and WeChat Pay.
Industry Impact and Outlook
Ripple reported that its global payments infrastructure now spans over 90 markets, representing more than 90% of daily foreign exchange flows and processing over $70 billion in volume. Thunes emphasized that the expanded reach helps businesses and financial institutions address demand for faster, more transparent, and secure money movement. While some observers remain cautious about blockchain scalability and regulatory scrutiny, proponents argue that collaborations like this demonstrate the technology’s ability to reduce costs, accelerate settlements, and expand financial access in underserved regions.