Deep Dive
1. XRP Ledger EVM Integration (25 July 2025)
Overview: Axelar’s bridge became the default interoperability layer for Ripple’s EVM-compatible sidechain, enabling seamless transfers between XRPL and 80+ chains. Over 6M XRP wallets now access Ethereum dApps via Axelar’s infrastructure.
What this means: Bullish for AXL’s utility, as it positions Axelar as a critical middleware for institutional-grade DeFi. However, competition from Wormhole’s planned integration could pressure adoption. (CoinMarketCap Community)
2. Interoperability Milestone (31 July 2025)
Overview: Axelar’s active addresses surged to 1.2M in July, driven by institutional adoption of cross-chain asset transfers. The protocol now facilitates ~$2.1B in weekly volume, per Kanacoin’s market analysis.
What this means: Growth aligns with the broader interoperability sector’s 62% quarterly TVL increase. Axelar’s focus on EVM/non-EVM compatibility differentiates it, but bridge security remains a key watchpoint after historic exploits. (CoinMarketCap)
3. Token Unlock Alert (27 July 2025)
Overview: 19.2M AXL ($6.4M at $0.33) unlocks on July 27, part of a staggered vesting schedule. This follows June’s Upbit-listing rally, where AXL gained 80% before retracing 45%.
What this means: Bearish short-term pressure likely, given Axelar’s 0.047 turnover ratio (low liquidity depth). However, staking APYs rose to 1.5% post-unlock, potentially incentivizing holding. (CoinMarketCap Community)
Conclusion
Axelar’s strategic partnerships and surging cross-chain usage underscore its role in the multi-chain narrative, but near-term unlocks and thin liquidity pose risks. Will developer momentum (2x monthly code commits) offset sell pressure from vesting schedules?