Stablecoin USDC issuer Circle's Layer-1 blockchain Arc has announced its integration with global custody platform Fireblocks. Fireblocks stated that they are ready to provide custody and compliance support, enabling clients to trade on the Arc network upon its launch and offer settlement services for institutional markets worldwide.
Paving the Way for Institutional Channels
Fireblocks serves over 2,400 banks, asset management companies, and fintech firms; it promises to provide custody, compliance, and risk control from the first day of Arc's launch, directly shortening the decision-making process for financial giants in blockchain adoption.
As understood, Arc uses USDC as its native Gas, combining high TPS and fast transaction finality, making fees, speed, and regulatory aspects predictable, aligning with corporate standards for cost and privacy. The public testnet is expected to launch in autumn 2025, with the mainnet planned for release in 2026.
The "iPhone Moment" for Stablecoins
Circle CEO Jeremy Allaire compared the large-scale adoption of stablecoins to the tipping point of smartphone proliferation.
"Stablecoins are experiencing an 'iPhone moment' similar to the widespread adoption of smartphones."
From technical routes to regulatory pace, the alliance between Arc and Fireblocks demonstrates Circle's overall strategy for entering the institutional market: first clarify compliance, custody, and fees, then attract large capital with a blockchain optimized for stablecoins.
Although USDT currently dominates, Arc is poised to bring a new growth engine for USDC and pave the way for stablecoins to play a more critical role in the global financial system. Whether stablecoins truly enter a smartphone-like explosive phase will soon be answered by the market.
