Stablecoins
Cryptocurrencies pegged to real-world assets like the U.S. dollar, designed to maintain stable value while enabling fast, borderless payments.
What is Stablecoins?
Stablecoins are cryptocurrencies pegged to real-world assets like the U.S. dollar, designed to maintain a stable value. They combine blockchain's speed and global reach with the reliability of fiat currencies - revolutionizing international payroll and cross-border payments.
How it works
- Stablecoins fall into three main types:
- Fiat-backed - Pegged 1:1 to currencies like USD (e.g. USDC, USDT), held in reserve
- Crypto-backed - Secured by collateralized crypto assets (e.g. DAI)
- Algorithmic - Maintains price through supply control, but considered riskier
- They enable instant, peer-to-peer transactions across borders - without banks, FX fees, or delays.
Why it matters
- For international teams and startups, stablecoins deliver:
- Cost savings - Skip FX and wire fees
- Speed - Instant transfers, even across continents
- Financial access - Works in underbanked regions like LATAM or Africa
- Earnings protection - Hedge against local currency depreciation
- Scalability - Expand into new countries without needing local banks
- They're ideal for remote teams, freelancers, and platforms operating globally.
Example
A Brazilian developer earns $2,000 in USDC via Sigma: Funds arrive instantly - no SWIFT or intermediary delays. No 3% FX markup - they receive the full amount. They can hold USDC or convert to Reais when rates are favorable.
