Circle Internet Group, Inc. (NYSE: CRCL) is planning to expand into nearly 40 emerging and developing markets worldwide as demand for stablecoins continues to grow. CEO and Chairman Jeremy Allaire shared this news with Reuters during the International Monetary Fund and World Bank meetings in Bangkok. He noted that regions like Southeast Asia, Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East are seeing strong organic demand for digital currencies as individuals and businesses seek to participate in an internet-based economic system.
Allaire highlighted several catalysts driving stablecoin adoption, including the transition from early adopter phases to mainstream scaling. Regulatory frameworks, such as the U.S. Genius Act expected to take effect in January 2027, are also supporting this growth. Additionally, competition is increasing as banking coalitions in the U.S. and Europe rapidly develop their own stablecoins and digital asset solutions. Major financial institutions and payment firms are embedding stablecoins for cross-border settlements and asset transfers.
Circle operates as a leading regulated stablecoin issuer, holding nearly 25% of the stablecoin market, compared to Tether’s USDT, which holds nearly 60%. The company’s U.S. dollar-backed stablecoin, USDC, saw a 19% year-over-year rise in circulation to $73.3 billion in the second quarter of 2026. Circle is accelerating its global expansion, backed by a $400 million acquisition of Tazapay in September, which added over 60 banking and fintech partners and 100+ payout markets. In July, Circle became one of the first stablecoin issuers to hold a federal bank charter.
Allaire also pointed to the growing use of USDC by artificial intelligence agents for small payments related to web research and online information services. However, he cautioned about heightened cybersecurity risks due to rapid AI adoption, including threats from sophisticated attackers and automated AI agents. Circle is scheduled to report quarterly earnings on November 4, with analysts expecting earnings of 36 cents per share and revenue of $780.98 million. The stock carries a Hold rating with an average price target of $91.54.