Ultimate guide to stablecoins

This guide provides a high-level overview of stablecoins, digital assets pegged to underlying assets like fiat currencies, commodities, or other cryptocurrencies.

Key Takeaways

• Stablecoins are digital assets pegged to stable underlying assets like fiat currencies, commodities, or cryptocurrencies, offering stability amidst cryptocurrency volatility.
• This type of cryptocurrency is vital for facilitating transactions and powering DeFi applications.
• Types include fiat-backed, commodity-backed, cryptocurrency-backed, and algorithmic stablecoins, each with unique mechanisms for maintaining stability.
• Advantages include stability, speed, lower costs, accessibility, transparency, global reach, and 24/7 availability.
• Cross-border payments powered by stablecoins are growing in popularity.

What Are Stablecoins?

Stablecoins are a type of cryptocurrency designed to maintain a stable value by being price-pegged to an underlying asset. The goal of stablecoins is to address one of the most significant challenges in the cryptocurrency space: price volatility. Unlike traditional cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin or Ethereum, whose values can fluctuate dramatically within short periods, stablecoins are designed to maintain a steady value by pegging their worth to a stable reserve asset. These assets can range from fiat currencies like the US dollar or euro to commodities like gold or even a basket of diversified assets.

The defining feature of stablecoins is their ability to combine the technological advantages of blockchain—such as transparency, security, and programmability—with the reliability and predictability of traditional financial instruments. This stability positions stablecoins as a powerful tool for various financial operations, particularly in the realm of cross-border payments, where consistency in value is critical for efficient transaction settlements and cost management.

A Brief History of Stablecoins

Stablecoins emerged in 2014, just five years after Bitcoin, as a solution to cryptocurrency’s volatility. The first stablecoin, BitUSD, launched that year on the BitShares blockchain. Though innovative, it didn’t gain significant traction.

Later in 2014, Tether (USDT) introduced a fiat-backed model. For every USDT issued, Tether Limited claimed to hold one US dollar in reserve, keeping its value stable at $1. Tether’s growth was slow at first but exploded during the 2017 Bitcoin bull run, with its market cap eventually surpassing $82 billion.

Other stablecoins, like USD Coin (USDC), followed, achieving rapid growth and cementing stablecoins as essential for trading, payments, and decentralized finance.

In just eight years, stablecoins have become a global financial force, with a market cap in the hundreds of billions, reshaping how money moves across borders.

Types of Stablecoins

Fiat-backed stablecoins:

These stablecoins are pegged to the value of traditional fiat currencies like the US Dollar or the Euro. They are typically issued by centralized entities and are backed by reserves of the corresponding fiat currency held in bank accounts. Fiat-backed stablecoins aim to maintain a stable value by ensuring that each stablecoin in circulation is backed by an equivalent amount of fiat currency.

Example: USDC, issued by Circle, is fully backed and redeemable 1:1 for USD. Daily attestations of the reserve are publicly available. Typically, USDC is minted when USD is deposited into a Circle Account, and it is burned when the USDC is redeemed for USD.

Commodity-backed stablecoins:

Instead of being pegged to fiat currencies, these stablecoins are pegged to the value of commodities such as gold or silver. They are backed by reserves of the underlying commodity held in storage. Commodity-backed stablecoins offer users exposure to the price of the underlying commodity while providing the stability of a digital asset.

Example: PAX Gold is a commodity-backed stablecoin launched by Paxos in 2019. Each PAXG token is backed by one troy ounce of gold stored in secure vaults. This stablecoin allows users to own and trade fractionalized gold without needing physical possession. Its success lies in its transparency, regulatory compliance, and ability to provide users with exposure to gold prices while benefiting from the liquidity and efficiency of blockchain.

Cryptocurrency-backed stablecoins:

These stablecoins are backed by reserves of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum. They are typically overcollateralized, meaning that the value of the collateral exceeds the value of the stablecoins in circulation. Cryptocurrency-backed stablecoins aim to maintain stability by ensuring that the value of the collateral remains sufficient to cover the value of the stablecoins.

Example: DAI, issued by MakerDAO, is one of the most recognized cryptocurrency-backed stablecoins. It is overcollateralized, meaning users must lock up cryptocurrencies like Ethereum in smart contracts to mint DAI. DAI’s stability is maintained through decentralized governance and a system of incentives. Its widespread use in decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms demonstrates the effectiveness of this model.

Algorithmic stablecoins:

Unlike other types of stablecoins, algorithmic stablecoins do not rely on reserves of underlying assets to maintain stability. Instead, they use algorithmic mechanisms to adjust the supply of stablecoins in response to changes in demand. Algorithmic stablecoins aim to maintain stability by dynamically adjusting the supply of stablecoins in circulation based on market conditions.

Example: TerraUSD, launched by Terraform Labs, was an algorithmic stablecoin pegged to the US dollar and backed by its sister token, Luna. UST maintained its peg by minting or burning Luna to balance supply and demand. However, in May 2022, a collapse in Luna’s value caused UST to lose its peg, leading to a catastrophic failure and wiping out billions in market value. The event highlighted the risks and vulnerabilities of algorithmic stablecoins in maintaining stability under extreme market stress.

Stablecoin Use Cases

Stablecoins are transforming how payments are conducted globally by enabling faster, cost-effective, and transparent transactions. They leverage blockchain technology to create innovative solutions across multiple financial use cases:

Facilitating Payments

• Remittances: Stablecoins provide overseas workers with a reliable way to send money home. By reducing reliance on traditional banking systems, they cut costs and transaction times, making them an attractive option for families in emerging markets.
• Internal Transfers and Liquidity Management: Businesses use stablecoins to manage funds across subsidiaries and regions. They eliminate delays caused by traditional banking hours or cross-border banking restrictions, ensuring organizations maintain liquidity when and where it’s needed.
• Payroll: For globally distributed workforces, stablecoins simplify payroll processes by eliminating exchange rate uncertainties and reducing fees. Employees can receive payments in stablecoins instantly, regardless of location.
• Escrow Services: By leveraging programmable smart contracts, stablecoins automate escrow processes. This eliminates the need for third-party intermediaries, reduces costs, and ensures transactions are executed based on predefined conditions.

DeFi (Decentralized Finance)

Stablecoins are the backbone of the DeFi ecosystem, fueling innovation across a wide range of financial services. Their stability makes them indispensable in areas such as:

• Market Making: Stablecoins provide liquidity to decentralized exchanges (DEXs), enabling seamless trading between volatile cryptocurrencies and stable assets.
• Collateralized Lending: DeFi platforms allow users to deposit stablecoins as collateral to access loans in other digital assets. Borrowers benefit from low-interest rates and flexible repayment terms.
• Derivatives and Asset Management: Stablecoins are used to create synthetic assets and hedging instruments, providing financial tools that were previously limited to traditional markets.
• Lending Opportunities: Users can lend stablecoins on DeFi platforms to earn competitive yields, creating passive income opportunities while strengthening the ecosystem.

Supporting Digitally Native Markets

• Trading Digital Assets: By providing a stable value, stablecoins allow users to trade cryptocurrencies without exposure to extreme volatility. They serve as a safe harbor during market downturns.
• Bridging Fiat and Blockchain Assets: Stablecoins act as intermediaries between fiat currencies and blockchain-recorded assets, enabling smoother transactions in tokenized markets. This stability fosters greater trust in digital financial systems.
• E-commerce and Online Services: Digitally native businesses integrate stablecoins to facilitate seamless payments, reaching global customers without the friction of currency conversion.
• Hedging Inflationary Currency: Emerging markets with volatile fiat currencies have a high adoption of USD-backed stablecoins, allowing businesses and individuals to hold their wealth in a more stable currency, redeeming it for local fiat when needed.

International Regulatory Landscape for Stablecoins

Stablecoins are reshaping the global financial ecosystem, offering efficiency and stability in ways that traditional payment systems and volatile cryptocurrencies cannot. However, their rapid growth has sparked widespread regulatory interest as governments and institutions attempt to balance innovation with financial stability, consumer protection, and compliance. The challenge lies in creating frameworks that support stablecoin adoption while mitigating risks related to transparency, reserves, and cross-border usage.

The regulatory approach to stablecoins is shaped by diverse priorities across regions. In developed markets like the United States and the European Union, the focus is on robust oversight, reserve transparency, and accountability to protect financial systems and ensure trust in stablecoin issuers. Meanwhile, emerging markets, such as those in Latin America or Africa, see stablecoins as a tool for financial inclusion and remittances, though the lack of direct regulations creates both opportunities and uncertainties.

Key factors influencing the regulatory landscape include transparency requirements for reserves, protection against misuse (such as money laundering or sanctions evasion), and the integration of stablecoins into traditional financial systems. Some jurisdictions are even exploring how privately issued stablecoins interact with or compete against government-backed digital currencies, such as Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs).

Regulatory clarity in some regions fosters innovation, while stricter frameworks may impose compliance costs. In other areas, the lack of specific guidance creates flexibility but demands careful navigation of broader cryptocurrency laws.

Regulation in Key Markets

United States

• Stablecoin Transparency Act: This proposed bill aims to establish specific transparency rules for fiat-backed stablecoins, requiring regular independent audits and full reserves. This impacts fintechs looking to operate or partner with U.S.-issued stablecoins, as it ensures greater security and reliability.
• Financial Consumer Protection in Digital Assets Act: Requires stablecoins to meet certain reserve and accountability standards, granting oversight to the SEC and CFTC. For fintechs seeking stable and sustainable payment strategies, this framework provides clearer guidelines but may require new reporting adaptations.
• OFAC Compliance: Fintechs sending money internationally must ensure that stablecoins comply with the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctions, which filter transactions to avoid prohibited ones. This is critical for international operations, as violations can result in significant penalties.

European Union

• MiCA Regulation (Markets in Crypto-Assets): Expected to take effect in 2024, MiCA is a pioneering framework in Europe that establishes standards for stablecoin issuers and requires fintechs to comply with clear rules on reserves, reporting, and transparency. MiCA creates two primary categories:
  • E-Money Tokens (EMTs): Stablecoins fully backed by cash or liquid assets, ensuring parity with a fiat currency—a significant factor for fintechs seeking stability.
  • Asset-Referenced Tokens (ARTs): Backed by multiple assets, but with more operational restrictions.
  • MiCA also imposes capital and risk mitigation requirements, impacting fintechs reliant on stablecoins under this framework. MiCA ensures that these coins are solidly backed and subject to audits, helping mitigate risks.

Latin America

• Mexico and Brazil Leading the Way: Both countries have made significant strides in stablecoin regulation. Brazil, for instance, includes stablecoins within its digital assets legal framework under the Central Bank, requiring transparency in reserves and operations. This allows fintechs operating in Brazil access to stablecoins that meet clear regulatory standards, enhancing compliance and reducing risks.
• Opportunity in Emerging Markets: In countries like Argentina and Colombia, there’s no direct stablecoin regulation, but fintechs must operate within the existing foreign exchange and cryptocurrency laws. This absence of specific regulation offers an opportunity for fintechs to provide stable and low-cost solutions while maintaining transparency and adherence to KYC/AML standards.

Africa

• Fragmented Frameworks: Africa's regulatory landscape for stablecoins is largely undefined, with most nations lacking specific guidelines. Stablecoins have gained traction for remittances and financial inclusion, addressing the high costs of cross-border payments in a region with some of the most expensive remittance corridors globally.
• Country-Specific Developments: South Africa leads with the integration of stablecoins like ZARP, pegged to the Rand, under clear reserve transparency requirements. In contrast, Nigeria focuses on its Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), the eNaira, restricting the use of private stablecoins in banking operations. These approaches highlight concerns over monetary sovereignty and financial stability.
• Regional and Global Influence: Regional bodies like the East African Community (EAC) are considering harmonized regulations to support cross-border transactions. Meanwhile, international standards from the Financial Stability Board (FSB) are shaping discussions on risk mitigation and oversight across the continent.
• Opportunities: The absence of unified regulations creates room for fintech innovation, particularly in remittances and financial inclusion. However, adherence to existing KYC/AML standards is crucial, and staying ahead of evolving policies will be key as Africa moves toward a more structured regulatory environment.

Stablecoin Compliance for Fintechs

Best Practices for Compliance

• AML/KYC Requirements: Most jurisdictions mandate fintechs dealing with stablecoins to implement robust anti-money laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) systems. Key requirements include:
  • User Identification and Verification: To minimize fraud risk, implement real-time, multi-layered verification like biometrics and behavioral data analysis.
  • Real-Time Transaction Monitoring: Using pattern detection tools, fintechs can identify suspicious activities or unusual transactions, especially for high-value cross-border transfers.
  • Counterparty Risk Analysis: Evaluating the risk profile of counterparties is crucial, particularly in markets with lighter regulation. Predictive analytics technology is recommended for minimizing risks and complying with global standards.
• Other Compliance Practices:
  • Audit Protocol Implementation: Establish regular internal audits and stress testing on stablecoins used to detect solvency or liquidity issues that may arise in times of market volatility.
  • Compliance Integration via APIs: Using APIs from regulatory service providers that directly integrate into the platform can streamline compliance processes, allowing fintechs to scale operations securely.
  • Transaction Traceability: Ensuring that all stablecoin transactions are fully traceable, even through blockchains, to comply with transparency and security regulations.

Potential Regulatory Changes and Their Impact on Stablecoin Use

• Adoption of CBDCs and Impact on Stablecoins: Many countries are developing their own central bank digital currencies (CBDCs). While CBDCs and stablecoins can coexist, some governments may introduce restrictions on stablecoin usage once CBDCs are operational, particularly for cross-border payments. Fintechs should prepare to adapt and assess the role each asset type will play in their ecosystems.
• Risk Regulation and Continuous Auditing: Regulators are likely to increase ongoing auditing requirements for stablecoins, mandating issuers and users to implement best practices in asset reserves. Fintechs may be required to ensure that their stablecoin providers comply with these standards.
• Focus on Consumer Protection: From 2024 onward, consumer protection and reserve transparency will likely become regulatory priorities for stablecoins, introducing advantages in terms of security and confidence for fintechs opting for regulated stablecoins. This could also impact the competitiveness and availability of unregulated stablecoins.

Access stablecoin-backed money movement on the Conduit payments platform

Discover how Conduit can help your business overcome significant pain points of making and receiving cross-border payments using stablecoins. With Conduit you can:

• Settle into bank accounts around the world. Send USDT/C or local fiat directly into bank accounts in the US, China, Latin America, Africa and beyond.
• Access competitive rates in multiple currencies. Our customized flow of funds are designed to reduce fees and improve speed for local fiat conversions.
• Utilize an easy-to-use web app. Our simple web app makes payment ops faster, easier and cheaper for your team.

To learn more, visit conduitpay.com or contact us directly and find out how we can support your business.