USDC
USDC is a regulated digital stablecoin issued by Circle Internet Financial in partnership with Coinbase under the Centre Consortium, designed to maintain a 1:1 peg with the U.S. dollar. It is best known for broad adoption across crypto exchanges and decentralized finance, supported by regular reserve attestations and a large market capitalization. It remains central in current news due to regulatory scrutiny of stablecoins, its role in on- and off-ramp stability, and debates over financial system risk and digital payments.
Activity

Drift Protocol Secures $148-150M Funding from Tether to Recover Assets and Relaunch on Solana
Drift Protocol received nearly $150 million from Tether and partners to recover assets lost in a $280 million exploit. The project plans a relaunch as a USDT-based decentralized exchange on Solana, aiming to strengthen its market position.

Circle's Stellar Year: Surging USDC and Stock Rise Highlight Stablecoin Demand
Circle's stock soared over 25% after outperforming earnings estimates, driven by a 72% increase in USDC supply. The company's success underscores growing investor confidence and increasing demand for stablecoins.

Polymarket Launches New Stablecoin and Complete Platform Overhaul for US Market
Polymarket introduces Polymarket USD, a stablecoin backed 1:1 by USDC, along with a major system overhaul, as it prepares for U.S. market expansion. This move aims to boost trading speed, liquidity, and operational control, marking a pivotal step in its growth strategy.

Fannie Mae to Accept Cryptocurrency as Mortgage Collateral Through Coinbase and Better Home
Fannie Mae has announced that it will now accept cryptocurrencies as collateral for mortgage down payments, in partnership with Coinbase and Better Home & Finance. This initiative aims to make home ownership more accessible to crypto enthusiasts and digital asset holders.

Circle's USDC Narrows Gap, Surpasses Tether's USDT in Key Volume Metrics
Circle's USDC stablecoin has surpassed Tether's USDT in adjusted year-to-date volume, reflecting a shift in market dynamics. This development highlights growing confidence in USDC for payments and settlements, potentially altering stablecoin dominance.

Aon Pilots Stablecoin Payments for Insurance Premiums with Paxos and Coinbase
Aon is testing stablecoin payments for insurance premiums in collaboration with Paxos and Coinbase. This pilot aims to explore new digital payment avenues in the insurance industry.

Circle's Q4 Revenue Surges 77% as USDC Supply Nears $75 Billion Amid Broader Crypto Rally
Circle's Q4 revenue soared 77%, and USDC supply approached $75 billion, marking significant growth amid a crypto rally. Goldman Sachs analysts caution about potential hidden costs underlying Circle's strong financial performance.

Morph to Integrate USDC and CCTP for Enhanced Cross-Chain Payment Settlement
Morph is integrating USDC and Circle's CCTP to improve cross-chain settlement for payments. This initiative aims to boost transaction efficiency and security across multiple blockchains.