Visa Survey Shows Strong Stablecoin Interest but Low Adoption in Asia Pacific

Visa's latest Consumer 360 study reveals a significant gap between interest and actual use of stablecoins across the Asia Pacific region. The survey, conducted between June and July 2026 with 14,250 respondents aged 18 to 65, found that 46% of consumers are likely to use stablecoins within the next five years, compared to just 16% who used them in the past year. This disparity highlights the growing curiosity about stablecoins, even as adoption remains limited.

The research also uncovered a substantial knowledge gap. Only 6% of respondents demonstrated an accurate understanding of how stablecoins work, while 41% incorrectly believed that stablecoins always increase in value. The survey identified Vietnam and India as the markets with the highest future-use intent at 67%, while Hong Kong led in awareness at 84%.

Stablecoins are seen as a potential method for online purchases, travel, overseas shopping, and cross-border transfers. Visa Head of Digital Currencies for Asia Pacific, Nischint Sanghavi, noted that consumers are starting to consider stablecoins for these uses, which align with existing payment behaviors. However, concerns about fraud and lack of understanding remain significant barriers, with 38% of aware but non-using respondents citing fraud or scam concerns, and 36% pointing to a lack of understanding.

Visa is actively expanding its stablecoin infrastructure. In July 2026, the company launched the Visa Stablecoin Platform, allowing banks, fintech companies, and crypto businesses to mint, hold, transfer, and redeem stablecoins. The platform began with Open USD and entered beta testing with selected clients. Visa's existing stablecoin-linked card business has also seen significant growth, with over 160 programs operating globally and a payment volume increase of nearly 200% from the previous year.