$USDC

**USDC (USD Coin)** is a stablecoin pegged 1:1 to the US dollar, launched in 2018 by Circle and Coinbase through the Centre Consortium. As an ERC-20 token on Ethereum, it also operates on other blockchains like Solana and Algorand. Backed by cash and short-term US Treasuries, USDC ensures transparency through monthly audits, making it a trusted stablecoin for crypto transactions.

USDC enables fast, low-cost transfers globally, serving as a bridge between fiat and cryptocurrencies. It’s widely used in DeFi for lending, trading, and liquidity provision due to its stability. Unlike algorithmic stablecoins, USDC maintains its peg through reserved assets, reducing volatility risks.

Regulated and compliant, USDC is favored by institutions and retail users alike. However, its centralized issuance has raised concerns about censorship risks, as Circle can freeze funds if required. Despite this, USDC remains a cornerstone of the crypto economy, combining reliability with blockchain efficiency.

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