Google Cloud's Universal Ledger: L1 Blockchain Details Emerge
Google Cloud Reveals Details on Universal Ledger Blockchain
Google Cloud is making strides in the blockchain space with its in-development layer-1 blockchain, the Google Cloud Universal Ledger (GCUL). Rich Widmann, Google Cloud’s head of Web3 strategy, shared new details about the project in a recent LinkedIn post.
Widmann described GCUL as the result of “years of R&D at Google,” emphasizing its design for credible neutrality and compatibility with Python-based smart contracts. He envisions it as an open infrastructure layer for financial institutions.
"Tether won’t use Circle’s blockchain — and Adyen probably won’t use Stripe’s blockchain," Widmann stated, suggesting Google’s network’s reported neutrality could foster broader adoption among competing financial entities. This is particularly relevant as Stripe and Circle also explore layer-1 solutions with projects like Tempo and Arc, respectively.
According to Widmann, the Google Universal Ledger aims for “planet-scale” reach with billions of users and bank-grade functionality. Google Cloud anticipates releasing more technical specifications in the coming months.
Google's Blockchain Expansion
Google Cloud's involvement in blockchain technology dates back to 2018, starting with the integration of Bitcoin data into its Big Query warehouse and subsequently extending support to Ethereum and other networks.
This initiative gained momentum in 2022 with the creation of a dedicated Web3 division, leading to collaborations with companies such as Coinbase, Polygon, and Solana.
CME Group Testing Universal Ledger
The Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) Group is actively collaborating with Google Cloud to pilot the Universal Ledger for tokenization and payments, as announced in March. This pilot aims to evaluate tokenized asset settlement and wholesale payment systems. Full market participant trials are scheduled for 2026.
CME chairman and CEO Terry Duffy highlighted the potential of the Universal Ledger to “deliver significant efficiencies for collateral, margin, settlement and fee payments as the world moves toward 24/7 trading.”
By partnering with CME, which reported record revenue of $1.7 billion in Q2 2025, Google is positioning itself to impact the foundational infrastructure of global finance. This type of fundamental infrastructural advancement is paramount to institutional adoption of blockchain technologies, and platforms like Codeum play an important role in securing new Web3 developments and token launches.
Google's L1 update arrives as other tech and fintech companies are developing their own blockchains. For example, Plasma, backed by Tether-linked investors, is building a layer-1 for USDt settlements, and Robinhood launched tokenized US stocks and ETFs for European customers with plans to migrate them to its native layer-2 blockchain.