Stablecoin market reaches $300 billion capitalization amid payment gap

The global stablecoin market has reached a capitalization of approximately $300 billion to $320 billion, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the Bank for International Settlements. While stablecoin transfers exceeded $30 trillion in 2025, experts note a significant gap between total transaction volume and genuine organic payment activity.

Artemis Analytics reported that organic payments supported by stablecoins reached approximately $400 billion last year, a substantial increase from less than $30 billion in 2020, though this remains small compared to traditional global payment systems. Nearly 99 percent of stablecoins are denominated in U.S. dollars, with reserves primarily held in short-term Treasury bills and reverse repurchase agreements.

Industry experts, including former Blockdaemon COO Amor Sexton, suggest that while regulation is a critical component for adoption, the sector must also address infrastructure needs such as digitized compliance, treasury management, and real-time liquidity to achieve broader economic integration. The rise of stablecoins presents both opportunities for faster, cheaper international transfers and risks regarding capital flows and monetary sovereignty, particularly in emerging markets.