$USDC

BigTechStablecoin explores major tech companies, such as Apple, Google, Airbnb, and X (formerly known as Twitter), stablecoins to simplify payment systems, reduce transaction costs, and improve cross-border payments. Here’s what’s happening¹²:

- *Involved Companies*:

- Apple: Negotiating with Circle, the issuer of the USDC stablecoin, to integrate it into its payment systems.

- Google: Already facilitating stablecoin payments for two clients using the PayPal stablecoin PYUSD, and exploring further integrations.

- Airbnb: Discussing the integration of stablecoins with Worldpay, and considering bypassing traditional payment processors like Visa and Mastercard.

- X: Developing a payment app, X Money, and exploring stablecoin integration, possibly with Stripe.

- *Benefits*:

- *Lower Transaction Fees*: Stablecoins can reduce fees associated with traditional payment processing.

- *Faster Cross-Border Payments*: Stablecoins enable near-instant settlements, eliminating intermediaries.

- *Increased Efficiency*: Blockchain technology can update financial infrastructures and reduce reliance on traditional banking systems.

- *Regulatory Landscape*:

- *GENIUS Act*: Proposed legislation in the U.S. Senate aimed at providing a regulatory framework for stablecoins, with discussions around potential involvement of major tech companies.