Circle Launches Arc Mainnet Using USDC for Transaction Fees

Key Facts

1Circle launched the Arc public mainnet on Sept. 16, a Layer 1 blockchain powered by USDC.

2The network features institutional validators and over 20 fiat stablecoins and tokenized funds at launch.

In a move reflecting the growing trend of integrating traditional assets with decentralized technology, Circle launched the Arc public mainnet on September 16, 2026. This Layer 1 blockchain is specifically designed to use the USDC stablecoin as the primary mechanism for paying gas fees, removing the requirement for users to hold volatile assets to process transactions. The network aims to provide a dedicated infrastructure for digital financial markets through native stablecoin integration.

At launch, the network features institutional validators and supports over 20 fiat-linked stablecoins alongside tokenized investment funds. According to reports, the asset list includes major financial products such as BlackRock’s BUIDL and funds from Janus Henderson. Data indicates that Circle completed the genesis mint of 10 billion ARC tokens as the network's planned initial supply, following a period of increasing activity on the testnet prior to the official launch.

Based on available market data, there are currently no live public price levels for the network's native instruments. Traders are monitoring how this launch will impact USDC liquidity and institutional adoption rates. Regarding the economic calendar, there are no upcoming catalysts directly linked to Circle; however, global monetary policy developments remain a key factor for the broader stablecoin sector.