Are stablecoins really the cheapest solution for international payments?
Stablecoins are often presented as a revolution for cross-border money transfers. But a recent study suggests that the reality is more nuanced.
📊 Key takeaways :
🔹 The total cost of a transfer ranges from 0.3% to nearly 9%, depending on the country and the service providers used.
🔹 Blockchain fees represent only a small portion of the bill.
💸 The main costs mainly come from :
• Converting local currency ➜ Stablecoin.
• Converting Stablecoin ➜ Local currency.
• Exchange rate spread (FX).
• Fees from exchange platforms and banks.
⏱️ Settlement times can vary from about 20 minutes to 2 business days, depending on the withdrawal method.
🌐 Why do stablecoins remain a major innovation?
✅ Transactions available 24/7.
✅ Fast settlement on the blockchain.
✅ Very low on-chain fees.
✅ An ideal solution for international payments and digital finance.
So the real challenge is no longer on the blockchain, but in the on-ramp and especially the off-ramp to fiat currencies.
🚀 As crypto infrastructures, regulated providers, and instant payment systems continue to develop, costs should keep falling, making stablecoin transfers even more competitive.
💬 Do you think stablecoins will one day replace traditional networks like SWIFT or Western Union for international payments?
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