Circle, the issuer of USDC, launches Arc, a layer-1 blockchain designed for stablecoin-native finance.

DeFi & Yields · 2026-08-06

Circle, issuer of the USDC stablecoin, has launched Arc, a layer-1 blockchain built to support stablecoin-based applications and address infrastructure gaps limiting institutional adoption. Arc uses USDC for transaction fees, offers deterministic settlement finality, and includes a built-in foreign exchange engine alongside optional privacy controls. The network completed a public testnet phase in October 2025 and will open its public mainnet on September 16, 2026, following months of operation in private mode with over 100 ecosystem and institutional participants. An ARC token has been announced alongside the mainnet launch.

Previously on Telem

Bernstein says Circle Q2 results address competition, reserve income concerns 2026-08-06
Coinbase launches 24/5 stock trading for 4,000 US stocks in UK 2026-08-06
Ark Invest buys $17M Circle shares after Q2 earnings 2026-08-06
Circle renews Coinbase partnership on existing USDC terms 2026-08-06
Circle Arc blockchain launches September 16, 2026 with 100+ builders 2026-08-05