We are thrilled to announce that USDC is now available natively on the Arbitrum blockchain. This development allows both developers and end-users to access the stablecoin directly on the network, eliminating the need for any bridging mechanisms. Through Circle Account and Circle APIs, businesses can now leverage USDC on Arbitrum to benefit from faster transaction settlements and significantly lower gas fees.
What Is Arbitrum?
Arbitrum is a leading Layer 2 scaling solution built for Ethereum. It utilizes Optimistic Rollup technology to enhance the throughput of decentralized applications while preserving the security guarantees of the Ethereum mainnet.
As of recent data, Arbitrum has secured over $2.2 billion in Total Value Locked, establishing itself as one of the most liquid and widely adopted scaling networks. This deep liquidity and expanding ecosystem provide an ideal environment for financial applications, trading platforms, and innovative blockchain projects.
By integrating native USDC, businesses can now tap into a broader user base, access crypto-native capital markets, and operate with greater efficiency and reduced costs.
Native USDC vs. Bridged USDC
Circle issues USDC natively on various blockchain networks to ensure stability, trust, and redeemability at a 1:1 ratio for U.S. dollars. Each native USDC deployment is fully backed and audited.
Prior to this release, a bridged version of USDC (often referred to as USDC.e) was available on Arbitrum. This asset was bridged from Ethereum and is not issued or managed by Circle.
Here’s how to distinguish between the two:
Native USDC on Arbitrum:
- Token Name: USD Coin
- Token Symbol: USDC
- Contract Address: 0xaf88d065e77c8cC2239327C5EDb3A432268e5831
Bridged USDC (USDC.e) on Arbitrum:
- Token Name: Bridged USDC
- Token Symbol: USDC.e
- Contract Address: 0xFF970A61A04b1cA14834A43f5dE4533eBDDB5CC8
The Arbitrum team is collaborating with ecosystem applications to facilitate a smooth migration of liquidity from bridged USDC to the new native version over time.
👉 Explore multi-chain USDC integration options
Expanding Use Cases with USDC on Arbitrum
The availability of native USDC unlocks numerous possibilities across various sectors:
- Global Payouts: Businesses can execute cross-border payments and payroll in seconds with minimal fees.
- DeFi Participation: Users can trade, lend, borrow, and provide liquidity on leading decentralized exchanges.
- E-Commerce and NFTs: Platforms can integrate stablecoin payments for digital assets, in-game purchases, and online retail.
Circle’s infrastructure supports native USDC across multiple blockchains, allowing users to move funds seamlessly between networks without relying on third-party bridges.
Getting Started with USDC on Arbitrum
Businesses interested in using USDC on Arbitrum can get started by creating a Circle Account. This provides access to robust on-and-off-ramp services, APIs for automation, and multi-chain interoperability.
👉 Learn how to optimize digital treasury management
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between native USDC and USDC.e?
Native USDC is issued by Circle on the Arbitrum blockchain and is fully redeemable for U.S. dollars. USDC.e is a bridged version from Ethereum and is not issued or managed by Circle.
Do I need to bridge USDC to use it on Arbitrum?
No. With the introduction of native USDC, you can mint, redeem, and transact directly on Arbitrum without using a bridge.
Is native USDC on Arbitrum redeemable 1:1 for USD?
Yes. Like all Circle-issued USDC, the native Arbitrum version is fully backed and redeemable at 1:1 for U.S. dollars.
Which wallets and exchanges support native USDC on Arbitrum?
Major platforms, including several global exchanges and self-custody wallets, are integrating support. Always confirm with your service provider for compatibility.
Can I transfer native USDC between different blockchains?
Yes. Circle’s APIs and accounts allow for cross-chain transfers of USDC between all supported networks natively.
What are the benefits of using USDC on a Layer 2 like Arbitrum?
Users benefit from Ethereum-level security combined with faster transaction speeds and dramatically lower fees, making it ideal for both retail and institutional use.