USDCx | Crypto

The integration underscores how privacy-first networks are adapting to a stablecoin-dominated crypto economy. Circle has introduced a privacy-focused version of its USDC stablecoin on Aleo, highlighting a broader push by privacy-oriented blockchains to gain access to regulated, dollar-backed assets as demand for onchain privacy tools grows. Circle and Aleo announced Tuesday that USDCx on Aleo is now available via Circle’s xReserve, a reserve-backed issuance model that allows USDC (USDC) to be represented on additional blockchains without relying on third-party bridges.  USDCx on Aleo is fully backed by USDC held in xReserve and is interoperable with USDC across other supported networks, including Ethereum and several major layer-1 and layer-2 blockchains where USDC is natively issued. Read more

A new Circle–Aleo stablecoin project highlights the growing demand for privacy features as firms weigh blockchain use against the risks of transparency. Stablecoin issuer Circle is developing a privacy-enhanced version of its US dollar-pegged USDC token, aiming to spur institutional adoption by offering greater confidentiality than traditional public blockchains allow. The new stablecoin, called USDCx and targeting banking and enterprise users, is being built in partnership with the privacy-focused blockchain company Aleo, Fortune reported on Tuesday, citing Aleo co-founder Howard Wu. Unlike most existing stablecoins, which have wallet addresses and transaction details fully visible onchain, USDCx is designed to provide “banking-level privacy.” Circle would still be able to provide a compliance record if law enforcement or regulators request information on specific transactions, according to the report. Read more