XRP Takes a Major Step Forward in Japan
XRP has taken a notable step forward in Japan as Mercoin, a digital asset platform under e-commerce giant Mercari Inc., officially added the crypto asset to its trading service. As of April 25, XRP has become the third-largest cryptocurrency on the platform, following earlier integrations of Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Accessible Trading Options for New Investors
Trading access begins at a minimum of just 1 yen, roughly equivalent to $0.007, which is aimed at allowing new investors to participate with ease. Various payment options, such as Mercari points, bank balances, and earnings from sales on Mercari, provide users with convenient entry points. Mercoin’s decision underscores its goal to increase financial inclusivity and diversify its crypto offerings.
Mercoin’s Journey Since Launch
Since launching in March 2023, Mercoin has pursued a straightforward and secure crypto experience. Bitcoin was its only supported asset during the early months. Ethereum was added 14 months after launch, and now XRP has joined, with timing that coincides with growing user familiarity.
Rising User Base Shows XRP’s Strong Entry
The new addition comes at a time when Mercoin’s user growth is already on a sharp rise. By December 2024, the service surpassed the three million-user mark, reflecting rising interest in crypto through resale platforms. Significantly, nearly 90% of these users are engaging with digital currencies for the first time, showcasing Mercoin’s strong appeal to entry-level traders.
XRP’s Solid Market Support
XRP, the fourth-largest crypto asset globally, enters Mercoin’s platform with solid market support. According to recent figures, its daily global trading volume reaches $4.3 billion, ranking sixth in trading activity worldwide. This popularity provides the currency with strong liquidity and wide recognition.
Platform’s Strategic Move
The company highlighted in its official announcement that the inclusion of XRP aligns with growing demand among its base, especially those who are ready to explore beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum. The platform emphasized that XRP’s addition will support the evolving needs of users who want more trading options without complicated procedures.
Marketplace Power Drives Crypto Adoption
One of the reasons behind this significant expansion is the influence of Mercari Inc., the parent company of Mercoin. Known as Japan’s top resale marketplace, Mercari boasts over 20 million monthly active users. With its huge customer base, the reach of Mercoin’s crypto offering becomes immediately scalable.
Former Ripple executive Emi Yoshikawa said that Mercari is Japan’s biggest marketplace app and the largest resale platform. She explained that now, people who sell things or earn points on Mercari can turn their money into XRP, starting from just 1 yen.
The news that @Mercari, Japan’s go-to marketplace app, now supports XRP is notable for a few reasons:
- Mercari is Japan’s largest resale platform, where millions of users keep a balance from selling unused items (MAU: 20+ mill)
- Users can now convert that balance or Mercari points into XRP
Yoshikawa said that most people buying cryptocurrency through Mercari are new to it. This shows that crypto is starting to reach everyday people, not just those who are already interested in it. At the time of writing, XRP is trading at $2.20, marking a 2.45% gain in the last 24 hours. Analysts eye a $5 target as the token enters the regularity clarity.