In a groundbreaking move, Visa has expanded its stablecoin settlement capabilities to include Avalanche and Stellar, alongside Ethereum and Solana. This strategic expansion supports PYUSD, EURC, and USDG, marking a significant step toward mainstream crypto adoption. Here’s what you need to know.
Why Visa’s Stablecoin Expansion Matters for Ethereum and Beyond
Visa’s decision to integrate Avalanche and Stellar into its stablecoin settlement network underscores the growing importance of blockchain interoperability. Key benefits include:
- Enhanced cross-border payment efficiency
- Greater flexibility for institutional clients
- Support for multiple stablecoins (PYUSD, EURC, USDG)
How Avalanche and Stellar Fit Into Visa’s Crypto Strategy
Avalanche (AVAX) and Stellar (XLM) have emerged as strong contenders in the blockchain space. Visa’s inclusion of these networks highlights their scalability and low-cost transaction capabilities. Current market data shows AVAX at $22.59 and XLM at $0.40, reflecting steady adoption.
The Regulatory Landscape: GENIUS Act and Stablecoin Future
This expansion aligns with the U.S. GENIUS Act, which establishes a federal framework for stablecoins. The act mandates:
| Requirement | Impact |
|---|---|
| Reserve audits | Increased transparency |
| Usage standards | Mainstream financial integration |
Stablecoins: From Trading to Real-World Payments
Once limited to crypto trading, stablecoins like PYUSD and EURC are now being used for remittances and e-commerce. Visa’s global head of growth products emphasized their potential to revolutionize money movement when trusted and scalable.
What’s Next for Visa and Crypto Payments?
Visa’s partnerships, including one with Stripe’s Bridge unit for stablecoin-linked debit cards, signal a broader shift toward digital-first finance. Supporting multiple blockchains positions Visa as a leader in this evolving landscape.
FAQs
Q: Which stablecoins does Visa now support?
A: Visa supports PYUSD, EURC, and USDG on Avalanche, Stellar, Ethereum, and Solana.
Q: How does this impact Ethereum?
A: Ethereum remains a core part of Visa’s strategy, but the expansion diversifies options for users.
Q: What is the GENIUS Act?
A: It’s the first U.S. federal regulatory framework for stablecoins, ensuring transparency and reliability.
Q: Why include Avalanche and Stellar?
A: Both networks offer scalability and low fees, making them ideal for payments.
