X Scraps Revenue Sharing for Original Content Rewards with Stablecoin Option
X is exploring stablecoin payments for creators as part of its revamped compensation structure. The company is replacing its Revenue Sharing program, which paid creators based on ad impressions from verified users, with a new system called Original Content Rewards Program.
The new system rewards creators who produce original ideas, expertise, reporting, creative content, and commentary. To qualify for the program, accounts must have an active X Premium subscription, at least 500 verified followers, and 500,000 verified impressions from paying subscribers within the past 90 days.
X is also considering using stablecoins like USDC (US Dollar Coin) for creator payments. This would eliminate banking delays and reduce fees associated with cross-border micropayments. The company has already been testing X Money, a service built around instant money transfers, bill payments, early direct deposit access, and a Visa-linked debit card.
The adoption of stablecoins by social platforms is gaining momentum. Meta began paying select creators in USDC in April 2026, starting in Colombia and the Philippines with plans to expand to over 160 countries. SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet service also uses stablecoins to collect payments from customers in emerging markets.
The use of stablecoins for creator payouts is a significant development for the industry. It has the potential to reduce fees, increase efficiency, and provide creators with more control over their earnings. However, it also raises questions about the burden of currency conversion on recipients and the need for more streamlined solutions.