Circle launched Arc, a Layer-1 blockchain, on September 16, 2026. The network is designed for payments, tokenized assets, lending, and trading. It features sub-second deterministic finality and is compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine, allowing developers to port existing applications.
USDC serves as the native gas token for the network, with transaction fees targeted at approximately $0.01. The platform supports USDC in two formats: an 18-decimal version for on-chain transfers and a 6-decimal ERC-20 version. It also supports other stablecoins like EURC and connects to over 20 other blockchains.
The network launched with over 100 institutional validators and ecosystem builders, including BlackRock, Visa, HSBC, and DTCC. The testnet recorded over 700 million transactions prior to the mainnet launch. Direct USDC transfers via Coinbase are not yet available but are on the roadmap.
Circle has minted an initial supply of 10 billion ARC tokens, which will serve as the governance and staking asset. While a public trading timeline for ARC remains unconfirmed, the company is exploring a Proof-of-Stake mechanism for 2027 to allow token holders to participate in network security.
