Visa Expands New Payment Solutions with USDC in the U.S.

Visa's New Collaboration with Circle

Visa has launched a new service that allows banks and fintech companies in the US to conduct transactions via the USDC stablecoin issued by Circle Internet Group. This innovation aims to integrate blockchain and stablecoin technologies into the traditional financial system.

Initial Steps and Future Plans

The new service initially launched in collaboration with Cross River Bank and Lead Bank on the Solana blockchain. Visa aims to expand this service to a wider audience across the US by 2026. This development suggests a softening of regulations regarding crypto assets in the US.

Layer-1 Blockchain and Arc Partnership

Visa is also involved in the design of the new generation Layer-1 blockchain Arc developed by Circle. This entails Visa using the Arc network for settlement transactions made via USDC and plans to operate a validation node linked to the network's launch.

Visa's Financial Growth Targets

Visa's stablecoin-based settlement volume is rapidly increasing; by November 30, 2025, the annual transaction volume is projected to reach $3.5 billion. However, this figure still represents a small percentage compared to the company's total payment volume of $7.26 trillion.

New Consulting Services

Visa Consulting & Analytics has also launched a consulting service named "Stablecoins Advisory Practice" in addition to the new USDC settlement service. This service aims to provide banks, fintechs, and retailers with information about the stablecoin market.

Competition and Innovation

Visa's competitor, Mastercard, continues to explore the role of stablecoins in payment systems. Last September, the company initiated new pilot programs to enable pre-funding with stablecoins for cross-border payments. Additionally, Mastercard took steps towards stablecoin settlement trials in collaboration with Ripple last November.

Visa's new partnership with Circle is considered a significant step in the cryptocurrency ecosystem. As the role and impact of cryptocurrencies in the financial system expands rapidly, it is crucial for companies to adapt to this transformation.