Summary
In 2025, stablecoins, which are cryptocurrencies linked to stable assets like the U.S. dollar, saw significant growth in global transactions. However, they were not widely used in everyday shopping. By 2026, stablecoin payment methods are expected to become common in retail due to the rise of stablecoin payroll, where employees are paid in stablecoins.
Key Facts
- Stablecoins are a type of cryptocurrency that maintains a stable value, often linked to the U.S. dollar.
- In 2025, over $33 trillion in stablecoin transactions were recorded globally.
- This transaction volume surpassed that of many global payment networks.
- Despite this, stablecoins were rarely used in everyday commerce like grocery shopping.
- By 2026, stablecoin payment options are expected to become standard in major retail and service outlets.
- The growth in stablecoin payroll systems is driving this change, allowing employees to receive salaries in stablecoins.
- Stablecoin payrolls offer faster global payments, lower fees, and reduced administrative work for companies.
- When employees are paid in stablecoins, they'll use them more often, influencing where they choose to shop.