Circle and Polymarket Join Forces to Enhance Onchain Financial Markets
Circle Internet Group, Inc. has partnered with Polymarket to strengthen on-chain financial markets. This collaboration aims to enhance the settlement infrastructure for Polymarket users. The move to native USDC, issued by Circle’s regulated affiliates, will provide a robust dollar-denominated settlement standard.
Partnership Overview
Announced on February 5, 2026, this partnership marks a significant transition for Polymarket. Currently, the platform utilizes Bridged USDC (USDC.e) on the Polygon network as collateral for trading activities. The shift to native USDC is expected in the coming months, enhancing capital efficiency and scalability.
Benefits of Native USDC
Native USDC provides several advantages:
- Redeemable 1:1 for US dollars.
- Increased capital efficiency for trading activities.
- Aligns with institutional standards.
Jeremy Allaire, CEO of Circle, emphasized that their platforms enable capital to function at internet speed. His comments highlighted Polymarket’s role in merging information speed with market dynamics.
Statement from Polymarket
Shayne Coplan, Founder and CEO of Polymarket, spoke about the importance of this collaboration, stating that it fortifies prediction markets. The integration of USDC aims to offer a reliable and consistent settlement standard, thus improving market integrity.
Strategic Growth
The partnership with Circle aligns with Polymarket’s goals to expand as a leading prediction market infrastructure. Other established financial entities, such as Intercontinental Exchange, already collaborate with Polymarket, reinforcing its commitment to a transparent marketplace.
Impact on Digital Asset Ecosystem
This alliance highlights a growing trend in the digital asset sector. The integration of payment stablecoins into on-chain financial systems is crucial for delivering traditional financial standards in internet-native environments. The collaboration aims to enhance transparency and settlement efficiency across prediction markets.
About Circle
Circle (NYSE: CRCL) is a pioneer in internet financial platforms focused on digital assets and payment applications. Its USDC stablecoin is a cornerstone of its services. Circle’s technologies facilitate global financial innovations for enterprises and developers alike.
About Polymarket
Polymarket is recognized as the world’s largest prediction market. It enables traders to forecast future events, providing real-time insights into market probabilities. With significant engagement in various sectors—including politics and pop culture—millions of dollars in predictions have been made, showcasing the platform’s dynamic nature.
