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RealFi launches USDr: turning idle stablecoins into real-world returns.

Thursday, April 09, 2026 — 15:22:35 (UTC)

RealFi Launches USDr: Turning Idle Stablecoins into Real-World Returns.

New crypto-native platform targeting up to 9%* APY, putting hundreds of billions in dormant stablecoins to work through real-world market investments

London, 09 April, 2026 - RealFi today announced the launch of its platform alongside the introduction of USDr, a decentralised, yield-bearing stablecoin pegged to the US dollar. USDr serves as the entry point into the RealFi ecosystem, enabling investors to put their dormant stablecoins to work, earning real returns.

RealFi is a crypto-native financial platform targeting one of the most underleveraged assets in digital markets: stablecoins. With hundreds of billions in circulation globally across high-growth markets including Nigeria, Vietnam, Kenya, Indonesia, Turkey, Brazil and Argentina - stablecoins have become DeFi's most successful digital asset. Yet for most holders, they remain idle - preserving value but failing to work as an investment tool.

USDr changes that. Through exposure to real-world market investments rather than traditional banking infrastructure or passive fiat reserves, USDr enables investors to earn yields of up to 9%* APY with no lockup - delivering meaningful returns in a market increasingly focused on capital efficiency.

RealFi is currently entering a testnet phase alongside an initial institutional onboarding process, with broader availability anticipated later this year. The platform is supported by Input Output Global and follows the integration of USD Coin on the Cardano network in March, and will boost DeFi capabilities across the network before going on to other ecosystems. The platform is designed for accessibility. Users can purchase USDC directly in their Lace wallet, convert it seamlessly into USDr, and stake to begin earning yield immediately - lowering the barrier to entry for retail users while remaining attractive to crypto treasuries and sophisticated DeFi participants.

"Stablecoins are the most underleveraged asset class in crypto - hundreds of billions sit idle when they could be generating real returns for their holders,” explained John O'Connor, CEO and Founder of RealFi. “USDr changes that equation entirely. We've built a platform that is transparent, accessible and designed to deliver genuine value. Real returns, real transparency, real finance, away from the volatility of crypto. Whether you're an investor seeking higher returns or a web3 treasury looking for alternative upside, RealFi opens a whole new world of investment to you without off-ramping."

USDr's yield is backed by real world economies: a diversified reserve of Money Market Funds and Corporate Floating Rate Bonds - meaning every dollar in USDr supports real businesses and real infrastructure, rather than relying on risky crypto-native leverage. RealFi is targeting $1 billion in TVL as it scales across Cardano, Ethereum and Bitcoin networks, following USDC’s arrival on Cardano.

Early participants on the RealFi platform will have the opportunity to earn R-Points through active engagement and platform participation. R-Points recognize and reward community contribution during the platform's early growth phase and distribution across chains. Further details regarding R-Points, including any future utility or conversion mechanics, will be communicated to participants in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements and platform terms.

“We’re bringing investors and borrowers closer to the company, and closer to the rewards, whereas a traditional banking sector keeps them at arms length, in many cases depriving them of any kind of financial autonomy”, continued O’Connor.

Investors can register their interest now at realfi.co, as well as sign up for the testnet waitlist.

Disclaimer: RealFi products are not available to users in the United States (US), European Union (EU), United Kingdom (UK), Hong Kong (HK), or other restricted or sanctioned jurisdictions. It is the responsibility of each user to ensure compliance with the laws and regulations applicable in their jurisdiction prior to accessing the RealFi platform or any of its products.

This press release contains forward-looking statements, including statements regarding anticipated product launch timelines, platform development milestones, and projected TVL targets. These statements reflect current expectations and targets only, and are subject to risks, uncertainties, and changes in circumstances that could cause actual outcomes to differ materially. RealFi undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement following publication of this release.

USDr is a digital asset that provides exposure to a portfolio of real-world financial instruments. It is not a bank deposit, is not insured, and carries risk, including potential loss of principal. Returns are variable, based on market conditions, and are not guaranteed.

Redemptions may be subject to timing delays, liquidity constraints, and market conditions. The value of underlying assets may fluctuate, and there is no assurance that USDr will maintain a constant value relative to the US dollar at all times.

Access to the platform is subject to onboarding procedures, including identity verification and compliance with applicable anti-money laundering and sanctions regulations.

*APY is indicative, based on current rates, and subject to change. Not a guaranteed return. Capital at risk. +++END+++

About RealFi RealFi is a crypto-native stablecoin platform that bridges decentralised finance with real-world market investments. Through its flagship product USDr - a yield-bearing stablecoin pegged to the US dollar - RealFi enables stablecoin holders to earn sustainable returns. Built on the Cardano blockchain and integrated with the Lace wallet, RealFi is designed to make DeFi yields simple, transparent and accessible to users worldwide.

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Source: Company press release.

Categories: Announcement