Stablecoins

Citi plans to launch a cryptocurrency custody service in 2026, driven by regulatory clarity and client demand, according to a senior executive. This service aims to provide institutional clients with secure management of digital assets. Citi is also exploring stablecoins for use in regions with less developed banking infrastructure and has invested in stablecoin infrastructure firm BVNK. Other Wall Street firms, like JPMorgan and Bank of America, are also evaluating stablecoins, though approaches to crypto custody vary.

Citigroup has made a strategic investment in BVNK, a fintech startup specializing in stablecoin infrastructure, signaling growing institutional adoption of digital assets. BVNK provides payment infrastructure for global stablecoin transactions, facilitating seamless capital movement between fiat and cryptocurrencies. BVNK’s valuation exceeds $750 million. The investment, channeled through Citi Ventures, highlights Citi’s commitment to fintech innovation. BVNK is experiencing growth in the U.S., driven by a supportive regulatory environment. Other banks are also exploring stablecoins and blockchain, indicating Wall Street’s increasing embrace of crypto.

Stablecoins are gaining mainstream traction, driven by regulatory advancements like the GENIUS Act and Circle’s IPO, offering potential to reduce payment processing fees for SMBs. Businesses face significant overhead from traditional payment systems, with merchant fees reaching $187.2 billion in 2024. Companies like Prevail Coffee are piloting stablecoin payments to bypass intermediaries and achieve faster, cheaper transactions. While challenges like consumer adoption and security remain, stablecoins promise a more efficient and transparent payment landscape by leveraging blockchain technology, ultimately reshaping commerce.

Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong addressed Capitol Hill amid a regulatory clash between crypto and banking sectors. The debate centers on crypto exchanges offering rewards, viewed as similar to bank interest. Banking groups lobby to restrict this, fearing deposit outflows to stablecoins. Armstrong argues for a level playing field, dismissing bank concerns as protecting revenue. The GENIUS Act’s interpretation on exchange-offered rewards is disputed. Banks warn of diminished lending capacity, citing a potential $6.6 trillion deposit shift. Crypto advocates claim restrictions favor traditional institutions. The outcome of market structure legislation will shape the future of digital assets and finance.

Circle (CRCL), a stablecoin issuer, debuted on the NYSE in June 2025 and surged 622% post-IPO, reaching a near $50 billion market cap. Stablecoins, likened to ADRs, face increasing regulatory scrutiny, exemplified by the “Clarity for Payment Stablecoins Act.” Circle’s USDC, positioned as a compliant alternative to USDT, saw fluctuating issuance and redemptions. Challenges include reliance on Coinbase, potential interest rate cuts impacting revenue, and competition from Big Tech and government initiatives. The US’s complex stance on stablecoins stems from SWIFT disruption and US debt demand dynamics.

The U.S. and Hong Kong are racing to regulate stablecoins, signaling a global monetary shift. The “GENIUS Act” aims to link stablecoins to U.S. debt, potentially boosting demand, while Hong Kong offers a more flexible approach, attracting innovative financial institutions. This regulatory competition is a battle for influence in the digital economy, mirroring the struggle for traditional currency dominance. Stablecoins are positioned to be key players in future cross-border payments and financial ecosystems.