Foreign media report that global payments company Thunes has expanded its real-time payment infrastructure to the U.S. by establishing a direct connection with a Tier-1 financial institution, gaining access to a more core banking network. The article suggests that this move not only broadens Thunes’ coverage within U.S. domestic payment channels but also draws increased attention to its partnership with Ripple.
Connect to the primary banking network
The report states that Tier-1 banks occupy a central position in the global correspondent banking system. Thunes’ direct integration with these institutions means its payment and settlement processes are now closer to the mainstream banking system, rather than relying primarily on peripheral intermediaries.
The article suggests that such connections typically imply higher compliance requirements and more mature liquidity management capabilities, and also help shorten the settlement chain for cross-border transfers.
Covers U.S. and cross-border payment scenarios
According to reports, Thunes' collaboration with Ripple has been ongoing, focusing on connecting blockchain liquidity systems with regulated financial infrastructure. The two companies currently operate in over 140 countries and support 90 currencies, with access to a large number of mobile wallet accounts.
The article states that Thunes holds relevant licenses in all 50 U.S. states, and Ripple operates within a compliant framework. This licensing structure enables them to more easily participate directly in U.S. payment networks and reduces reliance on intermediary banks.
- Coverage in over 140 countries
- Supports settlement in 90 currencies
- Can connect to a large number of mobile wallet accounts
Stablecoin settlement has been included in the discussion.
Foreign media believe that Thunes' expansion reflects how traditional cross-border payments continue to streamline intermediary steps. Transfers that previously required multiple layers of correspondent banks are gradually shifting toward more direct, programmable, and near-real-time value transfer models.
The report also noted that Mastercard has begun integrating stablecoin settlement capabilities into its network, indicating that traditional payment rails and on-chain liquidity tools are converging in parallel. In this context, Ripple’s RLUSD is viewed by the article as a potential institutional settlement tool, particularly suited for scenarios requiring USD-denominated transactions and clear compliance.
The article argues that the connection between real-time payment networks, regulated stablecoins, and blockchain settlement layers is deepening. Thunes’ entry into the U.S. market and its integration with Tier-1 banks is seen as another example of this trend in the institutional payments space.