Crypto giants launch global dollar network with new 'stablecoin'

Cryptocurrency firms including Robinhood, Kraken, and Paxos launch USDG, a stablecoin pegged to the US dollar

Representations of cryptocurrency Bitcoin are seen in this illustration picture taken in Paris, France, March 9, 2024. PHOTO: REUTERS

A group of leading fintech and cryptocurrency firms, including Robinhood, Kraken, and Paxos, has launched the Global Dollar Network, a new initiative aimed at accelerating global adoption of stablecoins.

At the core of the network is USDG, a stablecoin pegged to the US dollar, designed to provide faster and more cost-effective cross-border transactions while offering rewards to participants who contribute to its adoption.

The Global Dollar Network, which also involves companies like Anchorage Digital, Galaxy Digital, Bullish, Nuvei, and DBS Bank, seeks to address key challenges in the stablecoin market, including high transaction fees and limited consumer protections.

USDG will be governed by a committee representing its partners and is designed to comply with Singapore's forthcoming stablecoin regulatory framework.

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Key features of USDG

USDG aims to differentiate itself from other stablecoins by offering yield on reserve assets to its participants, creating an incentive structure to drive adoption.

This yield-sharing model is expected to attract both institutional players and mainstream businesses looking to integrate stablecoins into their financial systems.

“USDG changes the dynamics in the regulated stablecoin market by creating a more equitable and inclusive model,” said Arjun Sethi, Co-CEO of Kraken.

“This will help drive broader participation from institutional investors and mainstream users.”

Strategic Partnerships and global expansion

The network will rely on partnerships with major financial institutions and crypto firms to promote stablecoin usage.

Southeast Asia’s largest bank, DBS Bank, will play a crucial role in managing USDG’s reserves and providing custody services.

The token is initially available on platforms including Kraken, Paxos, Galaxy Digital, and Anchorage Digital, with plans for further expansion in the coming months.

"USDG is designed to empower enterprises to seamlessly integrate stablecoins into their business models and facilitate global payments," said Charles Cascarilla, CEO of Paxos.

"By creating a more open, inclusive financial ecosystem, the Global Dollar Network is replatforming the global financial system."

Competing in dominant stabelcoin market

The stablecoin market is currently dominated by two major players: Tether (USDT) and USD Coin (USDC), which together account for nearly 90% of the market capitalization.

USDG faces the challenge of entering this concentrated market, but its unique yield-sharing model and strong backing by industry leaders position it as a potential competitor.

With interest in cryptocurrencies growing, particularly as traditional financial markets evolve, the launch of USDG reflects the increasing focus on stablecoins as a key element of the broader crypto ecosystem.

Stablecoins like USDG are often used to facilitate trading between cryptocurrencies and traditional currencies, offering stability amidst the volatility of other digital assets.

Step towards stabelcoin global adoption

The Global Dollar Network is positioning itself as a key player in the future of digital finance. By offering low-cost, fast cross-border payments, and the ability to earn rewards on stablecoin holdings, the network aims to make stablecoins a more attractive solution for both consumers and institutions.

As governments and regulators increasingly explore digital asset frameworks, initiatives like the Global Dollar Network may help pave the way for wider stablecoin adoption.

Paxos, which is behind the USDG stablecoin, has emphasized that the initiative is designed to foster societal-wide adoption of stablecoin technology, aligning with broader trends of digital asset acceptance worldwide.

With the backing of major crypto and fintech firms, the Global Dollar Network aims to become a dominant player in the stablecoin market, accelerating the use of digital currencies in real-world applications.

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