Stablecoin Regulation Takes Center Stage

**Circle Alliance Program** expands in Asia as Korbit exchange launches **USDC access** for South Korean users. The digital asset platform aims to: - Accelerate stablecoin adoption across the region - Unlock onchain finance opportunities in Asia - Provide seamless USDC trading infrastructure This follows Circle's broader Alliance Program strategy, which includes partnerships with platforms like Mercuryo for global crypto on-ramps and Utila for institutional digital asset operations. [Learn more about Circle Alliance Program](https://www.circle.com/alliance-program)

**Circle has officially joined the Global Travel Rule (GTR) Network**, led by Binance, to strengthen compliance with international financial regulations. **Key developments:** - Expands Circle's support for FATF-aligned digital asset transfers - Adopts multi-network approach to travel rule compliance - Reinforces commitment to compliance-first infrastructure for regulated institutions The **travel rule** requires financial institutions to share customer information for transactions above certain thresholds, helping prevent money laundering and terrorist financing. This move positions Circle alongside other major crypto players working to bridge traditional financial regulations with digital assets. The GTR Network aims to create **interoperable compliance solutions** across the crypto ecosystem. For regulated institutions, this development means **enhanced security and seamless compliance** when conducting cross-border digital asset transfers through Circle's infrastructure. [Read Circle's full announcement](http://www.circle.com/blog/circle-joins-global-travel-rule-network-to-expand-worldwide-compliance-coverage)

Circle leadership hosted an executive insights session analyzing the **GENIUS Act**, the first federal framework for payment stablecoins now signed into law. Key discussion points included: - How the new legislation will shape digital finance's future - Impact on payment stablecoin innovation and regulation - Implications for US global leadership in crypto The session featured Circle's @ddisparte and other executives unpacking what this regulatory milestone means for the industry. **Why it matters:** The GENIUS Act represents a significant step toward clear federal oversight of stablecoins, potentially boosting institutional adoption and regulatory clarity. [Watch the full discussion](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J4G6K71vdpU) to understand how this legislation could impact your digital finance strategy.

**Circle Gateway** has officially launched on mainnet, introducing a new primitive that enables unified USDC balances across multiple blockchains. **Key Features:** - Instant crosschain access to USDC in under 500ms - No bridging delays or infrastructure needed - Available on 7 major chains: Arbitrum, Avalanche, Base, Ethereum, Optimism, Polygon, and Unichain **Benefits for Different Users:** - **Onramps & PSPs**: Serve more users without idle capital - **Exchanges**: Scale USDC withdrawals with no delays - **Custodians**: Offer seamless crosschain access - **Wallets**: Simplify UX with unified balances **Launch Partners** include Aori, Blockradar, Cray, Daimo, DFNS, Eco, Enclave, Fireblocks, Particle Network, Rath Finance, Rhinestone, Rockaway X, and Superform. More blockchains are expected to join, with Arc already confirmed for future integration. [Learn more about Gateway](https://www.circle.com/blog/circle-gateway-redefining-crosschain-ux) | [Start building](http://developers.circle.com/gateway)