$USDC Stablecoins are a type of cryptocurrency designed to maintain a stable value by being pegged to another asset, such as a fiat currency (like the US dollar) or a commodity (like gold). This stability aims to address the high volatility often associated with other cryptocurrencies. Here's a breakdown of key aspects:
Key Characteristics:
* Price Stability:
* The primary goal is to minimize price fluctuations.
* This makes them more suitable for everyday transactions and as a store of value compared to volatile cryptocurrencies.
* Pegging Mechanism:
* Stablecoins achieve stability through various mechanisms, including:
* Fiat-collateralized: Backed by reserves of fiat currencies.
* Crypto-collateralized: Backed by other cryptocurrencies.
* Commodity-collateralized: Backed by commodities like gold.
* Algorithmic: Rely on algorithms to maintain their peg.