Meta Turns to USDC for Creator Payments in Renewed Crypto Push

Meta Platforms has re-entered the digital asset space, rolling out stablecoin payouts for creators using USD Coin across multiple blockchain networks.

Summary:

Meta launches USDC payouts for creators.
Pilot begins in Colombia and the Philippines.
Stablecoins cut costs and speed up global payments.

The move marks a strategic shift away from building proprietary currencies toward integrating existing regulated infrastructure.

The rollout, announced on April 29, introduces a pilot program targeting small cross-border payments. Initially, the feature is available to select creators in Colombia and the Philippines. Over time, Meta plans to expand the service across Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp.

Stablecoins Target Creator Economy

Meta is focusing on frequent, low-value international transfers, typically around $100. These payments often suffer from high fees and delays when processed through traditional banking systems.

By using stablecoins, the company aims to reduce friction. Transactions on networks such as Solana and Polygon settle quickly and cost significantly less than conventional wire transfers. As a result, creators can receive earnings almost instantly instead of waiting several business days.

At the same time, lower transaction costs improve overall earnings. Traditional payout systems can reduce income by 5% to 15% due to intermediary fees and currency conversions. In contrast, stablecoin transfers operate at near-zero cost.

Infrastructure and Partnerships

To support the rollout, Meta is relying on external infrastructure rather than building its own blockchain. Creators must connect third-party wallets, including MetaMask, Phantom and Binance Wallet, to receive payments.

Meanwhile, Stripe plays a central role in the system. Through its stablecoin platform Bridge, Stripe handles transaction infrastructure and tax reporting requirements. This partnership allows Meta to integrate crypto payments while maintaining compliance with financial regulations.

However, the system does not yet include a built-in fiat conversion feature. Creators must transfer their USDC holdings to external exchanges such as Coinbase or Kraken to convert funds into local currency.

Regulatory Shift Enables Comeback

Meta’s renewed push into digital assets follows a more favorable regulatory environment. The GENIUS Act established clearer guidelines for fully reserved stablecoins, reducing legal uncertainty for large technology firms.

This contrasts with Meta’s earlier attempt to launch its own digital currency, which faced regulatory resistance and was ultimately abandoned. By adopting USDC instead, the company avoids issuing a new asset while still leveraging blockchain-based payments.

Toward Faster Global Payments

The initiative reflects a broader trend. Stablecoins are increasingly used as a practical tool for cross-border payments, especially in regions where traditional financial infrastructure is costly or inefficient.

For Meta, the strategy aligns with its global creator economy. Faster, cheaper payouts can attract more users and improve engagement across its platforms.

If the pilot succeeds, the company could scale stablecoin payments worldwide. That would position Meta as a major distribution layer for blockchain-based finance, embedding digital assets into everyday online activity.

The information presented in this article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as financial, investment, or trading advice. Coinspress.com does not promote or advocate for any particular investment strategy, asset, or cryptocurrency project. Cryptocurrency markets are highly volatile and unpredictable – always perform your own research and seek guidance from a qualified financial professional before making any investment decisions.

Author

Alexander Zdravkov

Reporter at CoinsPress

Alexander Zdravkov is a market analyst and crypto journalist with interests in economics, broader financial markets and digital assets. His journey into crypto began more than four years ago, driven by a fascination with the rapid evolution of blockchain technology and the transformative potential of decentralized finance. He began analyzing market cycles and identifying emerging trends before they reach the mainstream. He holds a degree in International Relations - a background that helped shape his broader perspective on global economics, geopolitics, and the interconnected nature of modern financial markets. Whether covering the latest developments in the crypto sector or exploring broader macroeconomic themes, Alexander focuses on giving readers context rather than simply repeating headlines. During his career, he has authored more than 10,000 articles covering cryptocurrencies, traditional finance, and global market developments. His work spans everything from Bitcoin and altcoins to macroeconomic trends influencing risk assets worldwide.