Standard Chartered Leads G-SIBs with Integrated USDC Access

Standard Chartered has become the first Global Systemically Important Bank (G-SIB) to offer integrated access to USDC, a stablecoin issued by Circle Internet Group. The bank launched this capability in partnership with Circle, allowing institutional clients to mint and redeem USDC directly without holding direct accounts with Circle.

This service removes the need for multiple onboarding processes and provides a single experience for eligible clients to access USDC. Standard Chartered aims to connect fiat banking, digital asset infrastructure, and public blockchain networks, enabling faster and more transparent value movements between traditional and digital markets.

The bank's DIFC operations in Dubai are initially offering this capability, supporting the UAE's ambitions as a hub for regulated digital asset activity. This marks the first phase of Standard Chartered's global stablecoin strategy, with plans to expand into further markets pending regulatory approval.

Roberto Hoornweg, CEO of Corporate and Investment Banking at Standard Chartered, stated that the launch reflects growing institutional demand for governance and trust standards found in traditional markets now extended to digital assets. Kash Razzaghi, Chief Commercial Officer at Circle, added that the partnership gives institutions a trusted route into blockchain-enabled finance while maintaining compliance and risk standards.