Charles Hoskinson Talks ICP, Stablecoins, and Bitcoin

In a two-and-a-half-hour AMA on February 2, 2025, Cardano (ADA) founder Charles Hoskinson addressed key developments in stablecoins, cross-chain partnerships, and Bitcoin interoperability, while hinting at global adoption efforts.

ICP Partnership: A Possible Collaboration?

When asked about Cardano partnering with the Internet Computer Protocol (ICP), Hoskinson acknowledged potential synergy:

“It’s potentially possible. ICP was very unhappy about being excluded […] There are great scientists in that ecosystem too.”

Although no formal agreement is in place, Hoskinson’s multi-chain vision suggests that Cardano and ICP could eventually bridge their technologies.

Cardano’s Stablecoin Strategy & Ripple Talks

Stablecoins were a central theme of the AMA, with Hoskinson discussing multiple projects, including:

• Real USD (RLUSD)
• Cardano-native stablecoin integration
• A potential Cardano-Ripple collaboration

Hoskinson confirmed ongoing talks with Ripple’s David Schwartz and Brad Garlinghouse about integrating RLUSD onto the Cardano network:

“Ripple told us to wait till March as they just finished NYDFS. We’ll see if there’s a roadmap.”

Additionally, he proposed allocating part of Cardano’s treasury to stablecoins, arguing it could boost TVL (Total Value Locked) and Cardano’s DeFi ecosystem.

Bitcoin Interoperability & Lightning-Hydra Plans

Hoskinson reiterated his long-standing commitment to making Cardano interoperable with Bitcoin, revealing plans for:
⚡ Bitcoin-based DeFi projects
⚡ A demo at the Bitcoin 2025 conference
⚡ A Lightning Network & Hydra integration

“We’re exploring how to merge Hydra with Lightning to strengthen that Bitcoin relationship.”

This could create a “Lightning-Hydra synergy,” improving cross-chain liquidity and scalability between Bitcoin and Cardano.

Cardano’s Global Expansion: From Ethiopia to Mongolia

Hoskinson addressed Cardano’s evolving global strategy, shifting away from direct government contracts to private-sector blockchain applications.

📍 Ethiopia’s Blockchain Project Failure

• Hoskinson admitted Cardano’s ambitious Ethiopia project collapsed due to government instability:

“We tried really hard to build something for the kids, but the government ghosted us.”

📍 Kenya’s RealFi Microfinance

• Instead, Kenya’s RealFi project is using Cardano’s infrastructure for lending and real-world assets.

📍 Mongolia’s Gold-Backed Stablecoin?

• Hoskinson hinted at potential partnerships in Mongolia, particularly for a Wyoming-backed gold stablecoin.

“It would be really cool to do that with Mongolia as an international partner.”

Final Thoughts

Hoskinson’s AMA signals Cardano’s continued push for cross-chain compatibility, stablecoin adoption, and Bitcoin DeFi integration.

With talks progressing with Ripple, ICP, and Bitcoin developers, Cardano could be positioning itself as a key player in the multi-chain future.