Circle and LianLian Global explore stablecoin cross-border payment infrastructure, USDC accelerates global settlement upgrade

On December 17, 2025, Circle Internet Group and LianLian Global signed a Memorandum of Understanding, announcing an exploration of stablecoin-based cross-border payment infrastructure with the goal of providing faster, lower-cost, and more reliable international payment solutions for global merchants and digital platforms. The two parties will focus on evaluating the application potential of USD stablecoin USDC in high-frequency, large-scale cross-border payments and promoting the modernization of fund management and settlement processes.

This collaboration combines Circle’s technological advantages in stablecoins and blockchain with LianLian Global’s experience in cross-border payment compliance and network coverage. Circle is the issuer of USDC, with a circulation of approximately $73.7 billion; LianLian Global, headquartered in Hangzhou, serves about 7.9 million customers and holds over 65 regulatory licenses worldwide. The two sides will also explore payment application scenarios based on Circle Arc blockchain, a Layer-1 network designed specifically for stablecoins and financial services, which went live on the testnet in October 2025.

The partnership directly addresses the pain points of traditional cross-border payments. Data from the World Bank shows that cross-border transfers typically take more than one business day and incur fees exceeding 6%, which is especially impactful in emerging markets. Stablecoins, with near real-time settlement and significantly reduced costs, are becoming an important alternative for cross-border payments. Both parties will assess the feasibility of stablecoin payment channels in enhancing transparency, shortening settlement times, and expanding coverage in emerging markets.

This cooperation also aligns with Circle’s expansion strategy for the Circle Payment Network (CPN). CPN connects banks, payment institutions, and digital wallets through regulated stablecoins, enabling 24/7 cross-border settlement, currently covering multiple countries and experiencing rapid growth. Meanwhile, LianLian Global continues to advance its stablecoin strategy, collaborating with institutions such as BVNK and UnionPay International, significantly shortening cross-border settlement cycles.

Against the backdrop of gradually clarifying global stablecoin regulations and the continuous increase in USDC market share, this collaboration is seen as an important step for integrating stablecoins into mainstream cross-border payment systems and is expected to lay the foundation for upgrading global digital payment infrastructure.