Recent claims of Ripple’s bid for Circle ranging from $5 billion to $20 billion have significantly rattled the cryptocurrency scene. While Circle has filed for an initial public offering at the New York Stock Exchange, there is speculation that it has not entirely closed off negotiations with substantial entities like Ripple $2 and Coinbase . The USDC’s ecosystem, valued at around $60 billion, coupled with Tether ‘s dominance and Ripple’s RLUSD, forms the backdrop of this intense power struggle. Though official statements claim “the company is not for sale,” ongoing rumors suggest a potential realignment of payment infrastructures.
How Ripple’s Power Could Expand with Circle’s Acquisition
Reports suggest that Ripple, initially offering $5 billion, could potentially increase the bid to $20 billion after Circle rejected the first proposal. According to insiders, Circle seeks a valuation aligned with USDC’s scale, deeming $20 billion insufficient. Ripple aims to transcend merely expanding its stablecoin portfolio by integrating USDC’s infrastructure into the XRP Ledger, positioning XRP as a primary currency for global transactions.
Past strategic moves like acquiring prime-brokerage firm Hidden Road for $1.25 billion illustrate Ripple’s intention to fortify its payment chain. Experts believe that sealing a deal with Circle may considerably augment Ripple’s leverage in regulatory negotiations.
Circle, however, reiterates its dedication to an IPO as a long-term goal. Despite this, the company reportedly remains receptive to new capital to maintain USDC’s market share, close the gap with competitor Tether, and bolster its fluctuating reputation.
Coinbase Potentially Alters the Competitive Landscape
According to Fortune, Circle might entertain a sale to Coinbase prior to its IPO. The two companies, previous allies in founding Centre Consortium, parted ways in 2023, with Circle assuming full authority over USDC. Despite this, Coinbase retains a stake in Circle and maintains robust regulatory connections in the U.S.
For Circle, a Coinbase acquisition could mean smooth integration, as it could rapidly expand retail usage by integrating USDC into the exchange’s existing programs. However, a complete shift of stablecoin issuance under Coinbase could bring additional regulatory challenges, akin to a full banking license.
Despite these potential hurdles, Coinbase views such a move as a crucial investment to enhance the everyday utilization of crypto in the United States. Market analysts project that, should Coinbase proceed, USDC’s transaction volume could double within two years through EMT card integration and expansive payment networks.
The future of USDC remains intertwined with these negotiations, directly impacting the stablecoin sector’s competitiveness and reshaping the global payment landscape.
