Visa is taking a giant leap in crypto adoption by integrating three new stablecoins—PayPal USD (PYUSD), USDG, and EURC—alongside two blockchain networks, Stellar and Avalanche. This bold move strengthens Visa’s position as a leader in global stablecoin-based transactions, offering faster, cheaper, and more efficient cross-border payments.
Why Visa’s Stablecoin Expansion Matters
Visa’s latest integration brings its supported stablecoins to four, including USDC, and expands its blockchain infrastructure beyond Ethereum and Solana. Here’s why this is a game-changer:
- Global reach: Supports both USD and EUR transactions, crucial for international commerce
- Enhanced efficiency: Reduces settlement times from days to minutes
- Cost savings: Cuts intermediary fees in cross-border payments
- Market accessibility: Opens doors for emerging markets with limited banking infrastructure
The New Stablecoins: PayPal USD, USDG, and EURC
Visa’s selection of these three stablecoins isn’t random. Each serves a specific purpose in the payment giant’s strategy:
| Stablecoin | Peg | Issuer | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| PYUSD | USD | PayPal | Mass adoption potential |
| USDG | USD | Paxos | Regulatory compliance |
| EURC | EUR | Circle | European market access |
Stellar and Avalanche: The New Blockchain Partners
Visa’s choice of Stellar and Avalanche as additional settlement networks brings distinct advantages:
- Stellar: Known for fast, low-cost transactions ideal for remittances
- Avalanche: Offers high throughput and sub-second finality for commercial payments
What This Means for Global Payments
Visa’s stablecoin settlement expansion could transform international money movement by:
- Enabling 24/7 settlement without banking hours restrictions
- Reducing currency conversion costs for businesses
- Providing financial access to unbanked populations
- Creating new opportunities for fintech developers
FAQs About Visa’s Stablecoin Expansion
1. Which stablecoins does Visa now support?
Visa supports four stablecoins: USDC (previously integrated), PayPal USD (PYUSD), USDG, and EURC.
2. On which blockchains can Visa process stablecoin settlements?
Visa now processes stablecoin settlements on Ethereum, Solana, Stellar, and Avalanche networks.
3. How does this benefit European businesses?
The addition of EURC allows European businesses to settle transactions in euros, avoiding USD conversion fees.
4. When will these new settlement options be available?
Visa has already begun rolling out these services, with initial focus on Central/Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa.
5. Can individuals use Visa’s stablecoin settlement?
Currently, these services are primarily for institutional clients and partners, though consumer applications may follow.
