#CryptoStocks

After the success of Circle on the New York Stock Exchange, other companies such as Walmart, Amazon, and Expedia are analyzing the possibility of issuing their own stablecoins pegged to the US dollar. For companies serving millions of customers weekly, the opportunity to introduce commission-free payments or even significantly lower fees could mean billions of dollars in savings annually. Additionally, by processing transactions using blockchain, sellers could receive funds from customers (and pay suppliers) almost in real-time, significantly reducing interchange and settlement fees that amount to billions of dollars per year, and eliminating 1–3 day delays in settling transfers. Early discussions include, among others, a token intended solely for use by one entity or a broader consortium of retailers supporting a single common stablecoin.

However, the realization of this strategy depends on the adoption of the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation in U.S. Stablecoins (GENIUS) Act, also referred to as the Stablecoin Act. The bill has just passed a key procedural vote in the Senate and is heading toward full consideration by both chambers. Representatives from the retail industry, represented by the Merchants Payments Coalition, are intensively lobbying for the adoption of the bill, arguing that clear rules will allow retailers to implement cheaper and instant settlements.