Overview of the Stellar project (XLM)
Stellar is a decentralized blockchain platform focused on fast and low-cost cross-border payments and the issuance of tokenized assets. The network's native token, XLM (Lumens), is used to pay fees and provide liquidity for currency conversions within the network. The platform supports smart contract functionality through Soroban and offers infrastructure for issuing stablecoins and other digital assets.
Technological prospects and network development
Network upgrades in 2025: In Q2 2025, the Stellar Development Foundation plans a series of updates aimed at increasing throughput (TPS), optimizing smart contract execution, and enhancing cross-chain interoperability. These improvements have already led to a 40% increase in the number of active developers in the two months following the announcement.
Soroban: Stellar's own smart contracts in WASM ensure compatibility with EVM, providing access to Ethereum project ecosystems and accelerating the integration of DeFi applications.
Ecosystem expansion and the 'anchor' model
Stellar uses the 'anchor' model — financial institutions and fintech companies issuing tokens on the blockchain backed by fiat currencies.
By 2025, thousands of anchors and issuers will operate in the network across more than 50 countries, issuing tokens in USD, EUR, NGN, GHS, and more.
Real-world application examples: Nigerian startup SureRemit facilitates affordable money transfers, while stablecoins USDC are issued on the Stellar platform, increasing network liquidity in Europe and the USA.
Key partnerships
IBM World Wire — since 2019, IBM has been using the Stellar blockchain for instant international settlements between banks and payment providers, confirming scalability and regulatory compliance (thestandard.io, thestandard.io).
MoneyGram — since 2021, implements on/off-ramp for USD Coin (USDC), allowing conversion of digital dollars to cash and back through the Stellar network.
Circle & Centre Consortium — the USDC stablecoin based on Stellar provides high liquidity and trust among businesses and exchanges worldwide.
Mastercard — integration of 'Crypto Credential' enables cross-border transactions with a simple email-like interface, simplifying user interactions.
Regional initiatives and growth drivers
Events Q3/Q4 2025: expected upgrades to Soroban for the issuance of new DeFi primitives and support for EVM (HelloSafe).
Middle East: launch of institutional on/off-ramps in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, direct fiat-XLM corridors — strengthening presence in the region (HelloSafe).
CBDC pilots: central bank pilot projects in the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) using Stellar as a settlement layer for digital currencies (HelloSafe).
Stellar demonstrates sustainable growth of the ecosystem through large-scale network upgrades, an increasing number of anchors, and strategic partnerships with global fintech giants. Key drivers include Soroban, the development of stablecoins, and institutional on/off-ramps in emerging regions. With favorable regulation and successful implementation of planned upgrades, the platform is well-positioned to maintain leadership in the cross-border payments segment and expand the use of DeFi applications.
