Foreign media reports that global payments company Thunes has expanded its real-time payments infrastructure to the United States, gaining access to a more core banking network by directly connecting to a Tier 1 financial institution. The article argues that this move not only expands its coverage within the US payment system but also brings greater attention to its partnership with Ripple.
Access to Tier 1 bank network
The report notes that Tier 1 banks occupy a central position in the global correspondent banking system. Thunes' direct access to these institutions means that its payment and clearing processes are closer to the mainstream banking system, rather than relying primarily on peripheral intermediaries.
The article argues that such connections typically imply higher compliance requirements and more sophisticated liquidity management capabilities, and also help shorten the settlement chain for cross-border transfers.
Covering US and cross-border payment scenarios
According to reports, Thunes and Ripple have been collaborating for some time, focusing on connecting blockchain liquidity systems with regulated financial infrastructure. The two companies currently cover more than 140 countries and 90 currencies, and have access to a large number of mobile wallet accounts.
The article states that Thunes already holds relevant licenses in all 50 US states, and Ripple also operates within a compliant framework. This licensing arrangement makes it easier for them to directly participate in the US domestic payment network and reduce their reliance on intermediary banks.
- Coverage in more than 140 countries
- Supports settlement in 90 currencies
- It can connect a large number of mobile wallet accounts.
Stablecoin settlement was included in the discussion.
Foreign media believe that Thunes' expansion reflects the continued reduction of intermediaries in traditional cross-border payments. Transfers that previously required multiple layers of correspondent banks are gradually shifting towards a more direct, programmable, and near-real-time value transfer model.
The report also mentioned that Mastercard has begun integrating stablecoin settlement capabilities into its network, demonstrating the parallel integration of traditional payment methods and on-chain liquidity tools. Against this backdrop, Ripple's RLUSD is seen in the article as a potential institutional settlement tool, particularly suitable for scenarios requiring USD denomination and compliance clarity.
The article argues that the connections between real-time payment networks, regulated stablecoins, and blockchain settlement layers are deepening. Thunes' entry into the US market and its integration with Tier 1 banks is seen as another example of this trend in the institutional payments sector.
