Uphold Launches XRP Staking and Crypto Rewards via Flare Network, Expands DeFi Features
Uphold is poised to enhance the XRP ecosystem by introducing XRP staking via the Flare Network, opening new yield opportunities for XRP holders. The company is currently testing this feature and will release more details soon. This update, following Uphold’s partnership with Flare, brings staking—a popular DeFi tool among altcoins—to XRP, potentially increasing its utility and appeal for crypto traders. Flare Network, known for its EVM compatibility and cross-chain capabilities, has seen a significant boost in total value locked after launching cross-chain USDT, reflecting growing demand for on-chain assets and yield strategies. Additionally, Uphold is expanding its product suite: it recently rolled out a self-custody wallet supporting XRP, reinstated staking rewards across 19 assets including major cryptocurrencies like XRP, ETH, and SOL for US users, and plans to relaunch a crypto-backed card in the US and Latin America. New Direct Payment features will let US customers earn up to 4% cashback in XRP and 5% in RLUSD, Ripple’s stablecoin. Collectively, these developments mark stronger DeFi integration for XRP and reinforce Uphold’s efforts to bridge digital assets with mainstream financial services. For traders, the enhanced staking rewards and new payment features are significant, as they could increase XRP’s market utility and liquidity, potentially impacting its price dynamics.
Bullish
The introduction of XRP staking on the Flare Network and the expansion of rewards-related features, including staking and cashback in both XRP and RLUSD, are likely to make XRP more attractive to investors seeking passive income and DeFi functionality. This strengthens XRP’s utility beyond traditional trading, potentially boosting market demand and liquidity. Historical market responses to similar DeFi integrations and improved staking options for other altcoins have generally resulted in short- to mid-term price appreciation and increased trading activity. Therefore, these integrated developments by Uphold are expected to have a bullish impact on XRP’s price in both the short and long term, as enhanced features attract both existing holders and new market participants.