Top 15 Stablecoins

Intermediate9/22/2024, 2:01:27 PM
The stablecoin landscape is evolving rapidly, driven by innovation, regulatory changes, and market demand. Each of the top 15 stablecoins analyzed offers unique features, pegging mechanisms, and reserve reports. From Tether's increasing market dominance to the decentralized governance of DAI and the hybrid model of FRAX.

Introduction

Unlike the traditional financial markets where price movements are generally more stable, the crypto market is often characterized by significant volatility and rapid price fluctuations. This volatility has led to the creation of stablecoins, a type of cryptocurrency designed to mitigate the adverse effects of the volatile and unregulated cryptocurrency market.

Stablecoins are typically pegged to a more stable currency, such as the U.S. dollar, or commodities like gold, to provide more stability. Different stablecoins in the crypto market are suitable for everyday transactions and provide a haven for investors seeking refuge from the wild price swings of the crypto market.

This article explores notable stablecoins often used by traders and investors, highlighting their unique features and advantages, from established players like Tether (USDT), USD Coin (USDC), and DAI to innovative newcomers like USDe and FRAX. This analysis also provides a comprehensive overview of the diverse stablecoin landscape and its integration with artificial intelligence.

Understanding Stablecoins

Stablecoins offer a haven for investors seeking to participate in the cryptocurrency market without risks associated with the rapid price fluctuations, typical of leading cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), etc. While experienced traders can exploit these volatilities to make profits, it remains risky for many. Stablecoins counter market instability, as demonstrated during the 2020 Bitcoin crash when they helped mitigate panic and offered investors a safe harbor.

Aside from price stability, stablecoins offer other benefits, such as bridging the gap between traditional finance and the cryptocurrency ecosystem, facilitating fast and low-risk money transfers, and providing an alternative to conventional banking with enhanced privacy, speed, security, affordability, and borderless transactions making them a valuable option for investors.

Types of Stablecoins


Source: fidelity.com

Stablecoins can be organized into four main types:

Fiat-Backed Stablecoins

Fiat-backed stablecoins are digital assets pegged to the value of a traditional fiat currency, such as the US dollar, Euro, or offshore Chinese Yuan. These stablecoins are typically issued by centralized entities that hold equivalent amounts of the corresponding fiat currency in reserve. Examples of popular fiat-backed stablecoins include Tether (USDT), USD Coin (USDC), First Digital USD (FDUSD), etc.

A key feature of these stablecoins is their redeemability for the underlying fiat currency at a fixed exchange rate. This stability makes them attractive to investors seeking to reduce volatility in their cryptocurrency portfolios. Additionally, price discrepancies between the stablecoin and its pegged fiat currency can create arbitrage opportunities for skilled traders.

Commodity-Backed Stablecoins

Commodity-backed stablecoins are digital assets pegged to the value of physical commodities like gold or silver. Unlike fiat-backed stablecoins linked to traditional currencies, these coins offer a hedge against inflation and currency fluctuations. Because they are backed by tangible assets with intrinsic value, commodity-backed stablecoins provide a more stable store of value. Examples of popular commodity-backed stablecoins include Tether Gold (XAUT) and Pax Gold (PAXG).

Crypto-Collateralized Stablecoins

These stablecoins are digital currencies pegged to a specific value (often a fiat currency like the US dollar) but backed by other cryptocurrencies instead of fiat or commodities. To maintain stability, these stablecoins operate on smart contracts which control their supply, ensuring consistent value.

A key characteristic of these stablecoins is over-collateralization. This means that the value of the cryptocurrency held in reserve is significantly higher than the value of the stablecoins issued. This excess collateral acts as a buffer against fluctuations in the price of the underlying cryptocurrencies, enhancing the stability and security of the stablecoins. Synthetix USD (sUSD) and DAI are prominent examples of crypto-collateralized stablecoins.

Algorithmic Stablecoins

Algorithmic stablecoins are cryptocurrencies designed to maintain a stable price using algorithms and smart contracts to control their supply. Unlike traditional stablecoins backed by assets, these operate more like the Central Banks adjusting fiat currency supply based on demand. When the coin’s value rises above its target, the algorithm typically mints new coins to increase supply and lower the price. Conversely, coins might be burned when the value drops to reduce supply and increase price.

Despite their innovative approach, algorithmic stablecoins have proven highly experimental and faced challenges in maintaining stability. A notable example is TerraUSD (UST), which attempted to maintain its peg to the US dollar through a combination of algorithmic mechanisms and incentives. Examples of notable Algorithmic stablecoins include USDD and Ampleforth.

Comparative Analysis of the Top 15 Stablecoins

Rating Criteria

With hundreds of stablecoins in circulation, selecting the top performers requires a robust evaluation framework. We have established the following key criteria to rank these stablecoins:

  • Peg/Price Stability: Consistent maintenance of the coin’s pegged value over an extended period is paramount.
  • Market Capitalization: A substantial and growing market cap indicates strong market demand and user confidence.
  • Asset Backing: A solid and transparent asset backing provides a robust foundation and support for the stablecoin’s value.
  • Adoption: Widespread usage, and integration into exchanges, ecosystems, and DeFi platforms signify broad acceptance and utility.
  • Transparency and Audit Report: Regular and detailed reserve reports increase user confidence and trust.

While these factors serve as the cornerstone of our rankings, it’s essential to note that the stablecoin landscape is dynamic. Factors such as blockchain interoperability, market capitalization fluctuations, fully diluted valuation (FDV), level of decentralization, user growth, and overall trust can influence a stablecoin’s position over time.

Tether


Source: stormgain

Tether is the pioneer stablecoin, dating back to its inception in 2014. Founded by Craig Sellars, Brock Pierce, and Reeve Collins, the token was formerly known as Realcoin and originally issued on Bitcoin Omni Layer. Tether is operated by the Hong Kong-based company, iFinex Inc, as Tether Limited. This blockchain-enabled platform provides an alternative to conventional banking and offers a buffer to the inherent volatility and complexity typically associated with digital tokens.

Over the years, Tether’s USDT has solidified its position as a dominant force in the crypto market and supports multiple blockchains, such as Gate Chain, Ethereum, Tron, Solana, Polkadot, Ton, etc. Thus, with the rapid increase in demand, ranking third after Bitcoin and Ethereum with a staggering market capitalization exceeding $100 billion and a daily trading volume surpassing $54.51 billion, (as of March 2024), USD₮ has become a cornerstone for many cryptocurrency traders and investors.

Key Aspects of USDT Pegging Mechanism

USDT offers the stability and simplicity of fiat currencies, pegged to real-world currencies on a 1:1 basis and backed 100% by Tether’s reserves. Essentially, for each token issued, there is a corresponding equivalent currency held in reserve. This is the core of its pegging mechanism. Tether is backed by the US dollar (USD), Euro (EUR), Mexican Peso (MXN), and offshore Chinese Yuan (CNH). It is tradable on exchanges as USD₮, EUR₮, MXN₮, CNH₮ respectively.

Furthermore, Tether publishes quarterly reserve reports for transparency, detailing the tokens in circulation, supported blockchains, and combined assets and liabilities. Additionally, BDO Italia, a globally renowned independent third-party auditing firm, prepares and publishes Audit Reports based on the Reserve reports published by Tether management.

Tether stated that by September 1, 2025, it would cancel support for the following blockchains: Omni layer, Bitcoin Cash SLP, EOS, Algorand, and Kusama due to lack of adoption, and would freeze all remaining USD₮ or EUR₮. Users are advised to convert tokens on this chain to supported blockchain networks.

USD Coin


Source: newsroom

USDC, also known as USD Coin, is a popular stablecoin that supports swift global payments. It uses blockchain technology to facilitate faster and cheaper financial transactions across applications and platforms around the globe. Unlike other cryptocurrencies, which can experience significant price swings, USDC is designed to maintain a 1:1 value with the U.S. dollar, meaning one USDC token is intended to be worth exactly one U.S. dollar. In other words, USDC is pegged 1:1 to the US dollar, and EURC is pegged 1:1 to the Euros.

Launched in September 2018 by Circle, a blockchain-based payment company, in collaboration with Coinbase Global. Together, they formed the CENTRE Consortium, which initially governed the issuance and development of USDC. While Coinbase was a key player in the early stages, Circle eventually assumed sole ownership of USDC after the closure of the CENTRE Consortium.

USDC plays a significant role in the DeFi ecosystem. Users can lend, borrow, and trade USDC on various crypto exchanges and DeFi platforms, often earning interest or participating in yield farming opportunities. Additionally, Circle launched a Euro-backed stablecoin, Euro Coin (EUROC). Like USDC, EUROC is a regulated fiat-backed stablecoin, and each EUROC in circulation has an equivalent reserve in fiat currency.

How Does USDC Work?

Issuance and Redemption

When a user or business wants to acquire USDC, they deposit U.S. dollars into their Circle Mint Account. Circle then generates (or “mints”) an equivalent amount of USDC tokens, and issues the same to the user or business. These tokens are issued on a blockchain supported by Circle. This issuance process is called “minting,” where a new USDC is introduced.

Conversely, when a user or business wants to convert their USDC back to U.S. dollars, they send USDC into their Circle Mint Account and request the corresponding USD amount. Circle then “burns” (destroys) the tokens and sends U.S. dollars to the user’s bank account. This conversion process, known as “burning,” removes USDC from circulation.

Note: This mechanism is also applicable to Euro Coin (EURC).

Reserves

For every USDC or EUROC in circulation, there is an equivalent amount of U.S. dollars or Euros held in reserve. These reserves are held in cash, cash-equivalent assets, and short-duration U.S. Treasuries, ensuring that the stablecoin is fully backed. Third-party accounting firms regularly audit these reserves to ensure transparency and maintain trust in the stablecoin’s peg to the fiat currencies.

Blockchain Compatibility

USDC was initially launched on the Ethereum blockchain as an ERC-20 token. However, it has since expanded to other blockchains, including Algorand, Avalanche, Base, Polkadot, Polygon PoS, Solana, Stellar, and many more, making it a multi-chain asset. This multi-chain approach allows USDC to be used in various decentralized finance (DeFi) applications, exchanges, and digital wallets across different blockchain ecosystems.

Overall, USDC has attracted interest from institutional investors, who view it as a stable and reliable digital asset. This interest has been further fueled by the increasing integration of USDC into major financial platforms and services. For instance, in 2021, VISA, a global payment giant, began accepting USDC transactions on its network, propelling the stablecoin into widespread use. Circle also announced plans to become a full-reserve national commercial bank, aiming to increase transparency and regulatory compliance for USDC and similar digital assets.

DAI Stable Coin (DAI)


Source: academy.swissborg

DAI is a decentralized stablecoin pegged to the US dollar. Unlike many other stablecoins that rely on fiat reserves or other cryptocurrencies for their stability, DAI is algorithmically stabilized through a system of smart contracts on the Ethereum blockchain. This mechanism is known as the Multi-Collateral Dai (MCD) system.

Launched in 2015 and formalized in 2017 by its founder Rune Christensen. DAI is the third-largest stablecoin by market capitalization with a valuation of $5.17 billion as of August 2024. Its supply fluctuates based on the amount of cryptocurrency used as collateral by DAI borrowers.

DAI’s unique selling point is its decentralization. This gives holders complete control over their assets and positions it as one of the world’s first unbiased currencies. However, it’s essential to note that while DAI aims to maintain a stable $1 value, its price can fluctuate due to market conditions and the overall state of the cryptocurrency market.

As a stablecoin, DAI can be used to purchase goods and services from merchants that accept it, offering consumers an alternative to traditional fiat currencies. Additionally, in DeFi, DAI can be used for lending, borrowing, and trading.

How DAI Works?

The core of DAI’s stability lies in the Maker Protocol. This protocol governs the minting (creation) and burning (destruction) of DAI through a system of collateralized debt positions (CDPs). To create DAI, users lock up cryptocurrency as collateral in a CDP. The amount of DAI that can be generated is determined by the value of the collateral and a stability fee.

  • Collateral: A variety of cryptocurrencies can be used as collateral, including ETH, WBTC, and other supported assets.
  • Stability Fee: This is a dynamic interest rate charged on CDPs to incentivize debt repayment and maintain DAI’s peg to the US dollar.

If the value of the collateral falls below a certain threshold, the CDP is liquidated, and the collateral is sold to repay the DAI debt. This mechanism helps to maintain DAI’s price stability.

Check Audit Report by the Ether Authority.

First Digital USD (FDUSD)


Source: news.bitcoin

First Digital USD (FDUSD) is a stablecoin launched in June 2023 by Hong Kong-based First Digital Labs. Built on the Ethereum and BNB Chain networks, with plans to expand to other blockchains, FDUSD prioritizes cost-efficiency, stability, speed, and security.

How FDUSD Works?

FDUSD is backed by cash and cash equivalents, held in accounts by third-party Asian-regulated financial institutions. Each FDUSD token is designed to maintain a 1:1 value with the US dollar. The reserve is composed of cash and a basket of highly liquid US treasury bills of very short-dated maturity.

First Digital Labs issues FDUSD directly to businesses and investors who meet laid down criteria, that is by passing Know Your Customer, Anti-money Laundering, Counter Terrorism Financing requirements, while retail investors can purchase from secondary markets like Gate.io.

USDD


Source: news.bitcoin

USDD is an algorithmic stablecoin, launched in May 2022 by TRON DAO Reserve, a group closely associated with TRON founder Justin Sun, it is secured by the over-collateralization of multiple mainstream digital assets (e.g. TRX, USDT). The total value of collateralized assets is significantly higher than that of USDD in circulation. USDD is available across multiple blockchains, including popular options like BNB Chain, TRON, Ethereum, and Avalanche. Additionally, it’s integrated with BitStore.com, a prominent platform in the Web3 card space. This integration allows users worldwide to easily top up their accounts and spend USDD seamlessly.

How USDD Works

USDD is an algorithmic stablecoin that uses a mint-and-burn mechanism to maintain its 1:1 peg with the US dollar. When the price of USDD drops below $1, users can exchange 1 USDD for $1 worth of TRX, and when the price is above $1, they can do the reverse. USDD uses a Peg Stability Module (PSM) that allows users to swap their tokens with other stablecoins at a 1:1 rate, minimizing slippage. Check the Audit report for the Peg Stability Module of USDD stablecoin.

To oversee the issuance of USDD and the action of the PSM, the smart contract is controlled and managed by a multi-signature of 5/7 institutional members of the TRON DAO Reserve.

PayPal USD (PYUSD)


Source: news.bitcoin

PayPal USD (PYUSD) is a stablecoin issued by PayPal and backed by Paxos Trust Company. Designed to bridge the gap between traditional finance and the cryptocurrency ecosystem, PYUSD offers a stable alternative to the volatile crypto market. PYUSD gained significant traction following PayPal’s announcement to operate on the Solana blockchain, a popular network known for its speed and efficiency. This move expanded PYUSD’s reach and user base, further boosted by its integration with Venmo and Coinbase.

How Does PYUSD Work?

PYUSD is pegged to the US dollar, at a 1:1 ratio, backed by fiat currency and US Treasuries, with all financial records open to public scrutiny. Check reserve reports here. However, like most fiat-backed stablecoins, their smart contracts give them the ability to freeze and destroy tokens, questioning their purpose of decentralization.

Tether Gold (XAUt)


Source: iq.wiki

Tether Gold (XAUt) is a unique digital asset that differs from traditional or common stablecoins. Instead of being pegged to a fiat currency, it represents ownership of physical gold. This innovative approach allows investors to hold gold in a tokenized form, offering the benefits of digital assets while maintaining the inherent value of gold. Tether Gold is an ERC-20 token, enabling seamless transactions and integration with the broader cryptocurrency ecosystem.

How Tether Gold XAUt Works

Each XAUt token is equivalent to one troy ounce of gold, backed by physical gold stored in secure Swiss vaults. Users can Purchase directly from the Tether Gold platform or through exchanges like Gate.

Tether just charges a one-time 25 basis point fee when you purchase or redeem XAUt.

Check XAUt reserve reports here.

TrueUSD (TUSD)


Source: cryptopolitan

TrueUSD (TUSD) is a popular ERC-20 stablecoin launched in 2018 on the Ethereum blockchain by TrustTokens. It has steadily gained traction, ranking among the top 15 stablecoins by market capitalization in 2024. It prides itself in delivering daily reserve reports as compared to other fiat-backed stablecoins that release monthly reports.

How Does it Work?

TUSD operates on a smart contract-based system that enables the creation of tokenized US dollars. This means that when users purchase TUSD with fiat currency, an equivalent amount of the stablecoin is minted and added to the circulating supply. When redeeming TUSD for USD, a smart contract automatically burns the tokens being redeemed or removes them permanently from the TUSD circulating supply.

Simultaneously, the platform credits the user with a USD amount equal to the amount of TUSD redeemed. TrustToken doesn’t charge purchase or redemption fees on TUSD transactions but earns revenue by collecting interest on U.S. dollars held in its accounts.

Pax Gold (PAXG)


Source: helalabs

Pax Gold is a gold-backed stablecoin introduced by Paxos in September 2019, built on the Ethereum blockchain. Since its launch, Pax Gold has gained significant traction, supported by over 50 vaults, exchanges, and lending platforms. Like other Paxos-issued stablecoins, it is regulated by the New York State Department of Financial Services (NYDFS).

How it Works

Each PAXG token represents one fine troy ounce of physical gold stored in secure vaults, Users can purchase PAXG with USD or Gold through Paxos, or its accredited third-party exchange service. Users can redeem their Pax Gold tokens for physical gold or USD. Purchase and sale of PAXG on the Paxos platform is subject to creation and destruction fees.

Check Reserve Reports here.

USDe


Source: cryptotimes

Ethena Labs’ stablecoin (USDe) is rapidly gaining traction in the cryptocurrency market. Founded in February 2023 by industry veteran Guy Young, Ethena aims to redefine the stablecoin landscape by addressing key industry challenges and creating a fully on-chain, scalable, and censorship-resistant form of money.

How USDe Works

Preferably referred to as synthetic dollar by its creators, users can access (mint) USDe, by exchanging other stablecoins or staked Ethereum (stETH). USDe is backed by delta-hedged positions of the deposited assets held in perpetual and futures markets. It also compliments the backing through a reserve fund, created from revenue generated by Ethena Labs. The reserve fund, composed of ETH, stablecoins, and other assets is controlled by 4/8 multisig of Ethena Labs contributors. Ethena also offers Staked USDe (sUSDe) as a reward to users for staking their USDe. Check audit reports here.

Unlike traditional fiat-backed or commodity-backed stablecoins, Ethena employs a sophisticated algorithmic approach combined with collateral adjustments to maintain its 1:1 peg to the US dollar. This innovative model eliminates the need for traditional currency reserves, setting it apart from competitors.

FRAX


Source: vietnaminsider

FRAX is a dollar-pegged stablecoin that pioneered a unique approach by combining elements of both collateralized and algorithmic stablecoin models. Initially known as Decentral Bank, founded in 2020 by Sam Kazemian, Travis Moore, and Jason Huan.

How FRAX Works

Frax maintains its peg through Algorithmic Market Operation (AMO) smart contracts and is partially backed by fiat-related assets such as;

  • Short-dated United States treasury bills
  • Federal Reserve Overnight Repurchase Agreements
  • USD deposited at Federal Reserve Bank master accounts
  • Select shares of money market mutual funds

Check Audit Reports here.

​USDB


Source: medium

USDB is an algorithmic stablecoin introduced in January 2023 by the Blast network, an EVM chain that provides a yield for stablecoins where users bridge their stablecoins to receive USDB.

How USDB Works

USDB maintains its peg to the US dollar through an auto-rebasing mechanism. The yield for USDB comes from MakerDAO’s on-chain Treasury bill protocol that’s MakerDAO DAI Savings Rate (DSR). USDB can be redeemed for DAI when bridging back to Ethereum.

Stasis Euro (EURS)


Source: coin-turk.com

Stasis Euro is a stablecoin pegged to the Euro and built on the Ethereum blockchain. Founded by Gregory Klumov in 2018 and launched by STASIS. It was developed to serve as a bridge between traditional and digital finance (cryptocurrency). Essentially, it offers users and investors a convenient way to hold and transact with Euros in a digital format.

How EURS Works

EURS is pegged to the Euro, at a ratio of 1:1, with Euro reserves held in European central banks. Users can buy EURS via the web app or on secondary markets like exchanges and on-ramp services. A 0.1% fee is applied to every purchase and sale of EURS.

Check Audit Reports here.

Pax Dollar (USDP)


Source: cryptotimes

Pax Dollar (USDP) is a stablecoin issued by Paxos Trust Company. Launched in September 2018, it was initially known as Paxos Standard before rebranding in 2021. Paxos, the company behind USDP, is led by founder Charles Cascarilla and is made up of industry veterans from Wall Street and Silicon Valley. USDP has formed strategic partnerships. Notably, its collaboration with MercadoPago—an online payment platform—has increased USDP’s adoption in Latin America, particularly Mexico, as a secure payment option. Additionally, the integration with Chainlink has enhanced USDP’s utility within the DeFi ecosystem, providing users with greater accessibility and security.

How USDP Works

USDP is accessible to users directly on Paxos by depositing USD or cryptocurrencies to mint the equivalent amount in USDP. It maintains a 1:1 peg to the United States Dollar by holding 1 USD in reserve for each 1 USDP token issued. USDP is backed by bankruptcy-remote reserves and regulated by the New York Department of Financial Services.

Check reserve reports here.

Alchemix USD (alUSD)


Source: iq.wiki-alusd

Alchemix USD is a fully collateralized and credit-based stablecoin designed to automate loan repayments. It is issued by the crypto-lending protocol, Alchemix, as a synthetic version of USD backed by underlying assets deposited in Alchemix vaults as collateral.

How alUSD Works

Users deposit other stablecoins (like DAI, USDC, or USDT) to mint 50% worth of their collateral in alUSD. Alchemix uses the deposited collateral to generate yield through various strategies, such as lending or staking which is automatically used to reduce the user’s debt. alUSD algorithmically maintains its peg to the US dollar using its transmuter and the Elixir Automated Market Operator. Check the available Audit reports here.

Differences Between the Stablecoins

The Stablecoin Trilemma

A stablecoin is best described as any cryptocurrency designed to have a relatively stable price, through being pegged to a currency or commodity or having its supply regulated by an algorithm. For this to happen, three factors must be in place:

Decentralization

The stablecoin should not rely on a centralized party to either issue and/or manage the stablecoin’s underlying collateral.

Stability

The stablecoin should maintain its peg, even in the harshest market conditions. This is mostly decided by the backing asset (USD, Gold, Cryptocurrency) and its pegging mechanism.

Capital efficiency

This refers to the amount of capital required to generate $1 worth of the stablecoin.

However, Stablecoins are faced with a trilemma, where Issuers have to trade off one of these factors to function effectively. Decentralization is often a challenge for stablecoins like USDT and FDUSD, where the collateral is held by centralized entities (e.g., banks, government treasury bills), and holders lack governance roles.

Price stability is a challenge for algorithmic Stablecoins, although capital efficient and decentralized, as there is no actual collateral backing the stablecoin, the algorithm is vulnerable to unforeseen market conditions that could trigger a de-pegging event.

Capital efficiency is a challenge for fiat and crypto-collateralized stablecoins where users have to deposit a significant amount of capital to mint or purchase the stablecoin. So far, no stablecoin is completely decentralized, stable, and capital efficient. However, newer models like FRAX have adopted hybrid methods combining algorithmic and asset-backed methods to maintain its peg.

Flatcoins: Anti-inflationary Stablecoins

Flatcoins are a type of stablecoin designed to address inflation by maintaining purchasing power rather than being pegged to a specific fiat currency. Unlike traditional stablecoins, which are typically pegged to a currency like the U.S. dollar, flatcoins aim to preserve value over time by adjusting their peg or algorithm in response to inflationary pressures. Notable Flatcoins already gaining traction are NUON by Laguna Labs, and SPOT by Ampleworth.

SPOT - The First Durable Decentralized Flatcoin


Source: SPOT

SPOT, developed by Ampleforth, describes itself as a low-volatility derivative of Ampleforth’s AMPL, an algorithmic stablecoin. The SPOT protocol operates by splitting AMPL’s volatility into two perpetual derivative assets;

  • SPOT: A low-volatile, debt-like instrument that can be used as a durable, inflation-tracking, stable asset
  • stAMPL: High-volatile staked AMPL

NUON


Source: Nuon

Nuon is a flatcoin developed by Nuon Finance, relying on the inflation index predictor Truflation. It integrates Truflation’s truConsumer Price Index, which tracks the increase in the cost of living and is supported by encrypted and verifiable population census data.

Dive deeper into what Flatcoin is in this detailed article on Gate Learn.

Future of Stable Coins: The A.I. Invasion

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) has ushered in a new era of possibilities across industries, and the stablecoin sector is no exception. By leveraging AI, stablecoin platforms are experiencing significant enhancements in performance, reliability, and security.

Key examples of AI’s strategic application in stablecoins include:

  • Tether’s AI Integration: Tether’s exploration of AI-powered solutions indicates a broader industry trend toward optimizing operations, thus paving the way for further innovation within the crypto space.
  • AI-based Trading Bots: These bots are revolutionizing the crypto market dynamics by executing trades based on real-time data, thereby improving market liquidity and stabilizing stablecoin values.
  • Risk Management: Platforms such as MakerDAO and FRAX have incorporated AI to efficiently manage collateral and reserves, ensuring the stability and reliability of their stablecoins.

Essentially, AI has the potential to revolutionize the functionality, security, and stability of stablecoins. As AI adoption in this sector expands and regulations evolve, we can expect to see remarkable advancements and innovations in the coming years.

Conclusion

The stablecoin landscape is evolving rapidly, driven by innovation, regulatory changes, and market demand. Each of the top 15 stablecoins analyzed offers unique features and advantages, from Tether’s increasing market dominance to the decentralized governance of DAI and the hybrid model of FRAX.

The introduction of AI technologies is poised to further enhance the stability, efficiency, and security of these digital assets. As stablecoins continue to gain traction in both traditional and decentralized finance, their role in the global economy is set to expand. Investors and users alike should stay informed about these developments to capitalize on the growing opportunities within the stablecoin sector.

Auteur: Paul
Vertaler: Piper
Revisor(s): Matheus、Piccolo
Translation Reviewer(s): Ashely
* The information is not intended to be and does not constitute financial advice or any other recommendation of any sort offered or endorsed by Gate.io.
* This article may not be reproduced, transmitted or copied without referencing Gate.io. Contravention is an infringement of Copyright Act and may be subject to legal action.

Top 15 Stablecoins

Intermediate9/22/2024, 2:01:27 PM
The stablecoin landscape is evolving rapidly, driven by innovation, regulatory changes, and market demand. Each of the top 15 stablecoins analyzed offers unique features, pegging mechanisms, and reserve reports. From Tether's increasing market dominance to the decentralized governance of DAI and the hybrid model of FRAX.

Introduction

Unlike the traditional financial markets where price movements are generally more stable, the crypto market is often characterized by significant volatility and rapid price fluctuations. This volatility has led to the creation of stablecoins, a type of cryptocurrency designed to mitigate the adverse effects of the volatile and unregulated cryptocurrency market.

Stablecoins are typically pegged to a more stable currency, such as the U.S. dollar, or commodities like gold, to provide more stability. Different stablecoins in the crypto market are suitable for everyday transactions and provide a haven for investors seeking refuge from the wild price swings of the crypto market.

This article explores notable stablecoins often used by traders and investors, highlighting their unique features and advantages, from established players like Tether (USDT), USD Coin (USDC), and DAI to innovative newcomers like USDe and FRAX. This analysis also provides a comprehensive overview of the diverse stablecoin landscape and its integration with artificial intelligence.

Understanding Stablecoins

Stablecoins offer a haven for investors seeking to participate in the cryptocurrency market without risks associated with the rapid price fluctuations, typical of leading cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), etc. While experienced traders can exploit these volatilities to make profits, it remains risky for many. Stablecoins counter market instability, as demonstrated during the 2020 Bitcoin crash when they helped mitigate panic and offered investors a safe harbor.

Aside from price stability, stablecoins offer other benefits, such as bridging the gap between traditional finance and the cryptocurrency ecosystem, facilitating fast and low-risk money transfers, and providing an alternative to conventional banking with enhanced privacy, speed, security, affordability, and borderless transactions making them a valuable option for investors.

Types of Stablecoins


Source: fidelity.com

Stablecoins can be organized into four main types:

Fiat-Backed Stablecoins

Fiat-backed stablecoins are digital assets pegged to the value of a traditional fiat currency, such as the US dollar, Euro, or offshore Chinese Yuan. These stablecoins are typically issued by centralized entities that hold equivalent amounts of the corresponding fiat currency in reserve. Examples of popular fiat-backed stablecoins include Tether (USDT), USD Coin (USDC), First Digital USD (FDUSD), etc.

A key feature of these stablecoins is their redeemability for the underlying fiat currency at a fixed exchange rate. This stability makes them attractive to investors seeking to reduce volatility in their cryptocurrency portfolios. Additionally, price discrepancies between the stablecoin and its pegged fiat currency can create arbitrage opportunities for skilled traders.

Commodity-Backed Stablecoins

Commodity-backed stablecoins are digital assets pegged to the value of physical commodities like gold or silver. Unlike fiat-backed stablecoins linked to traditional currencies, these coins offer a hedge against inflation and currency fluctuations. Because they are backed by tangible assets with intrinsic value, commodity-backed stablecoins provide a more stable store of value. Examples of popular commodity-backed stablecoins include Tether Gold (XAUT) and Pax Gold (PAXG).

Crypto-Collateralized Stablecoins

These stablecoins are digital currencies pegged to a specific value (often a fiat currency like the US dollar) but backed by other cryptocurrencies instead of fiat or commodities. To maintain stability, these stablecoins operate on smart contracts which control their supply, ensuring consistent value.

A key characteristic of these stablecoins is over-collateralization. This means that the value of the cryptocurrency held in reserve is significantly higher than the value of the stablecoins issued. This excess collateral acts as a buffer against fluctuations in the price of the underlying cryptocurrencies, enhancing the stability and security of the stablecoins. Synthetix USD (sUSD) and DAI are prominent examples of crypto-collateralized stablecoins.

Algorithmic Stablecoins

Algorithmic stablecoins are cryptocurrencies designed to maintain a stable price using algorithms and smart contracts to control their supply. Unlike traditional stablecoins backed by assets, these operate more like the Central Banks adjusting fiat currency supply based on demand. When the coin’s value rises above its target, the algorithm typically mints new coins to increase supply and lower the price. Conversely, coins might be burned when the value drops to reduce supply and increase price.

Despite their innovative approach, algorithmic stablecoins have proven highly experimental and faced challenges in maintaining stability. A notable example is TerraUSD (UST), which attempted to maintain its peg to the US dollar through a combination of algorithmic mechanisms and incentives. Examples of notable Algorithmic stablecoins include USDD and Ampleforth.

Comparative Analysis of the Top 15 Stablecoins

Rating Criteria

With hundreds of stablecoins in circulation, selecting the top performers requires a robust evaluation framework. We have established the following key criteria to rank these stablecoins:

  • Peg/Price Stability: Consistent maintenance of the coin’s pegged value over an extended period is paramount.
  • Market Capitalization: A substantial and growing market cap indicates strong market demand and user confidence.
  • Asset Backing: A solid and transparent asset backing provides a robust foundation and support for the stablecoin’s value.
  • Adoption: Widespread usage, and integration into exchanges, ecosystems, and DeFi platforms signify broad acceptance and utility.
  • Transparency and Audit Report: Regular and detailed reserve reports increase user confidence and trust.

While these factors serve as the cornerstone of our rankings, it’s essential to note that the stablecoin landscape is dynamic. Factors such as blockchain interoperability, market capitalization fluctuations, fully diluted valuation (FDV), level of decentralization, user growth, and overall trust can influence a stablecoin’s position over time.

Tether


Source: stormgain

Tether is the pioneer stablecoin, dating back to its inception in 2014. Founded by Craig Sellars, Brock Pierce, and Reeve Collins, the token was formerly known as Realcoin and originally issued on Bitcoin Omni Layer. Tether is operated by the Hong Kong-based company, iFinex Inc, as Tether Limited. This blockchain-enabled platform provides an alternative to conventional banking and offers a buffer to the inherent volatility and complexity typically associated with digital tokens.

Over the years, Tether’s USDT has solidified its position as a dominant force in the crypto market and supports multiple blockchains, such as Gate Chain, Ethereum, Tron, Solana, Polkadot, Ton, etc. Thus, with the rapid increase in demand, ranking third after Bitcoin and Ethereum with a staggering market capitalization exceeding $100 billion and a daily trading volume surpassing $54.51 billion, (as of March 2024), USD₮ has become a cornerstone for many cryptocurrency traders and investors.

Key Aspects of USDT Pegging Mechanism

USDT offers the stability and simplicity of fiat currencies, pegged to real-world currencies on a 1:1 basis and backed 100% by Tether’s reserves. Essentially, for each token issued, there is a corresponding equivalent currency held in reserve. This is the core of its pegging mechanism. Tether is backed by the US dollar (USD), Euro (EUR), Mexican Peso (MXN), and offshore Chinese Yuan (CNH). It is tradable on exchanges as USD₮, EUR₮, MXN₮, CNH₮ respectively.

Furthermore, Tether publishes quarterly reserve reports for transparency, detailing the tokens in circulation, supported blockchains, and combined assets and liabilities. Additionally, BDO Italia, a globally renowned independent third-party auditing firm, prepares and publishes Audit Reports based on the Reserve reports published by Tether management.

Tether stated that by September 1, 2025, it would cancel support for the following blockchains: Omni layer, Bitcoin Cash SLP, EOS, Algorand, and Kusama due to lack of adoption, and would freeze all remaining USD₮ or EUR₮. Users are advised to convert tokens on this chain to supported blockchain networks.

USD Coin


Source: newsroom

USDC, also known as USD Coin, is a popular stablecoin that supports swift global payments. It uses blockchain technology to facilitate faster and cheaper financial transactions across applications and platforms around the globe. Unlike other cryptocurrencies, which can experience significant price swings, USDC is designed to maintain a 1:1 value with the U.S. dollar, meaning one USDC token is intended to be worth exactly one U.S. dollar. In other words, USDC is pegged 1:1 to the US dollar, and EURC is pegged 1:1 to the Euros.

Launched in September 2018 by Circle, a blockchain-based payment company, in collaboration with Coinbase Global. Together, they formed the CENTRE Consortium, which initially governed the issuance and development of USDC. While Coinbase was a key player in the early stages, Circle eventually assumed sole ownership of USDC after the closure of the CENTRE Consortium.

USDC plays a significant role in the DeFi ecosystem. Users can lend, borrow, and trade USDC on various crypto exchanges and DeFi platforms, often earning interest or participating in yield farming opportunities. Additionally, Circle launched a Euro-backed stablecoin, Euro Coin (EUROC). Like USDC, EUROC is a regulated fiat-backed stablecoin, and each EUROC in circulation has an equivalent reserve in fiat currency.

How Does USDC Work?

Issuance and Redemption

When a user or business wants to acquire USDC, they deposit U.S. dollars into their Circle Mint Account. Circle then generates (or “mints”) an equivalent amount of USDC tokens, and issues the same to the user or business. These tokens are issued on a blockchain supported by Circle. This issuance process is called “minting,” where a new USDC is introduced.

Conversely, when a user or business wants to convert their USDC back to U.S. dollars, they send USDC into their Circle Mint Account and request the corresponding USD amount. Circle then “burns” (destroys) the tokens and sends U.S. dollars to the user’s bank account. This conversion process, known as “burning,” removes USDC from circulation.

Note: This mechanism is also applicable to Euro Coin (EURC).

Reserves

For every USDC or EUROC in circulation, there is an equivalent amount of U.S. dollars or Euros held in reserve. These reserves are held in cash, cash-equivalent assets, and short-duration U.S. Treasuries, ensuring that the stablecoin is fully backed. Third-party accounting firms regularly audit these reserves to ensure transparency and maintain trust in the stablecoin’s peg to the fiat currencies.

Blockchain Compatibility

USDC was initially launched on the Ethereum blockchain as an ERC-20 token. However, it has since expanded to other blockchains, including Algorand, Avalanche, Base, Polkadot, Polygon PoS, Solana, Stellar, and many more, making it a multi-chain asset. This multi-chain approach allows USDC to be used in various decentralized finance (DeFi) applications, exchanges, and digital wallets across different blockchain ecosystems.

Overall, USDC has attracted interest from institutional investors, who view it as a stable and reliable digital asset. This interest has been further fueled by the increasing integration of USDC into major financial platforms and services. For instance, in 2021, VISA, a global payment giant, began accepting USDC transactions on its network, propelling the stablecoin into widespread use. Circle also announced plans to become a full-reserve national commercial bank, aiming to increase transparency and regulatory compliance for USDC and similar digital assets.

DAI Stable Coin (DAI)


Source: academy.swissborg

DAI is a decentralized stablecoin pegged to the US dollar. Unlike many other stablecoins that rely on fiat reserves or other cryptocurrencies for their stability, DAI is algorithmically stabilized through a system of smart contracts on the Ethereum blockchain. This mechanism is known as the Multi-Collateral Dai (MCD) system.

Launched in 2015 and formalized in 2017 by its founder Rune Christensen. DAI is the third-largest stablecoin by market capitalization with a valuation of $5.17 billion as of August 2024. Its supply fluctuates based on the amount of cryptocurrency used as collateral by DAI borrowers.

DAI’s unique selling point is its decentralization. This gives holders complete control over their assets and positions it as one of the world’s first unbiased currencies. However, it’s essential to note that while DAI aims to maintain a stable $1 value, its price can fluctuate due to market conditions and the overall state of the cryptocurrency market.

As a stablecoin, DAI can be used to purchase goods and services from merchants that accept it, offering consumers an alternative to traditional fiat currencies. Additionally, in DeFi, DAI can be used for lending, borrowing, and trading.

How DAI Works?

The core of DAI’s stability lies in the Maker Protocol. This protocol governs the minting (creation) and burning (destruction) of DAI through a system of collateralized debt positions (CDPs). To create DAI, users lock up cryptocurrency as collateral in a CDP. The amount of DAI that can be generated is determined by the value of the collateral and a stability fee.

  • Collateral: A variety of cryptocurrencies can be used as collateral, including ETH, WBTC, and other supported assets.
  • Stability Fee: This is a dynamic interest rate charged on CDPs to incentivize debt repayment and maintain DAI’s peg to the US dollar.

If the value of the collateral falls below a certain threshold, the CDP is liquidated, and the collateral is sold to repay the DAI debt. This mechanism helps to maintain DAI’s price stability.

Check Audit Report by the Ether Authority.

First Digital USD (FDUSD)


Source: news.bitcoin

First Digital USD (FDUSD) is a stablecoin launched in June 2023 by Hong Kong-based First Digital Labs. Built on the Ethereum and BNB Chain networks, with plans to expand to other blockchains, FDUSD prioritizes cost-efficiency, stability, speed, and security.

How FDUSD Works?

FDUSD is backed by cash and cash equivalents, held in accounts by third-party Asian-regulated financial institutions. Each FDUSD token is designed to maintain a 1:1 value with the US dollar. The reserve is composed of cash and a basket of highly liquid US treasury bills of very short-dated maturity.

First Digital Labs issues FDUSD directly to businesses and investors who meet laid down criteria, that is by passing Know Your Customer, Anti-money Laundering, Counter Terrorism Financing requirements, while retail investors can purchase from secondary markets like Gate.io.

USDD


Source: news.bitcoin

USDD is an algorithmic stablecoin, launched in May 2022 by TRON DAO Reserve, a group closely associated with TRON founder Justin Sun, it is secured by the over-collateralization of multiple mainstream digital assets (e.g. TRX, USDT). The total value of collateralized assets is significantly higher than that of USDD in circulation. USDD is available across multiple blockchains, including popular options like BNB Chain, TRON, Ethereum, and Avalanche. Additionally, it’s integrated with BitStore.com, a prominent platform in the Web3 card space. This integration allows users worldwide to easily top up their accounts and spend USDD seamlessly.

How USDD Works

USDD is an algorithmic stablecoin that uses a mint-and-burn mechanism to maintain its 1:1 peg with the US dollar. When the price of USDD drops below $1, users can exchange 1 USDD for $1 worth of TRX, and when the price is above $1, they can do the reverse. USDD uses a Peg Stability Module (PSM) that allows users to swap their tokens with other stablecoins at a 1:1 rate, minimizing slippage. Check the Audit report for the Peg Stability Module of USDD stablecoin.

To oversee the issuance of USDD and the action of the PSM, the smart contract is controlled and managed by a multi-signature of 5/7 institutional members of the TRON DAO Reserve.

PayPal USD (PYUSD)


Source: news.bitcoin

PayPal USD (PYUSD) is a stablecoin issued by PayPal and backed by Paxos Trust Company. Designed to bridge the gap between traditional finance and the cryptocurrency ecosystem, PYUSD offers a stable alternative to the volatile crypto market. PYUSD gained significant traction following PayPal’s announcement to operate on the Solana blockchain, a popular network known for its speed and efficiency. This move expanded PYUSD’s reach and user base, further boosted by its integration with Venmo and Coinbase.

How Does PYUSD Work?

PYUSD is pegged to the US dollar, at a 1:1 ratio, backed by fiat currency and US Treasuries, with all financial records open to public scrutiny. Check reserve reports here. However, like most fiat-backed stablecoins, their smart contracts give them the ability to freeze and destroy tokens, questioning their purpose of decentralization.

Tether Gold (XAUt)


Source: iq.wiki

Tether Gold (XAUt) is a unique digital asset that differs from traditional or common stablecoins. Instead of being pegged to a fiat currency, it represents ownership of physical gold. This innovative approach allows investors to hold gold in a tokenized form, offering the benefits of digital assets while maintaining the inherent value of gold. Tether Gold is an ERC-20 token, enabling seamless transactions and integration with the broader cryptocurrency ecosystem.

How Tether Gold XAUt Works

Each XAUt token is equivalent to one troy ounce of gold, backed by physical gold stored in secure Swiss vaults. Users can Purchase directly from the Tether Gold platform or through exchanges like Gate.

Tether just charges a one-time 25 basis point fee when you purchase or redeem XAUt.

Check XAUt reserve reports here.

TrueUSD (TUSD)


Source: cryptopolitan

TrueUSD (TUSD) is a popular ERC-20 stablecoin launched in 2018 on the Ethereum blockchain by TrustTokens. It has steadily gained traction, ranking among the top 15 stablecoins by market capitalization in 2024. It prides itself in delivering daily reserve reports as compared to other fiat-backed stablecoins that release monthly reports.

How Does it Work?

TUSD operates on a smart contract-based system that enables the creation of tokenized US dollars. This means that when users purchase TUSD with fiat currency, an equivalent amount of the stablecoin is minted and added to the circulating supply. When redeeming TUSD for USD, a smart contract automatically burns the tokens being redeemed or removes them permanently from the TUSD circulating supply.

Simultaneously, the platform credits the user with a USD amount equal to the amount of TUSD redeemed. TrustToken doesn’t charge purchase or redemption fees on TUSD transactions but earns revenue by collecting interest on U.S. dollars held in its accounts.

Pax Gold (PAXG)


Source: helalabs

Pax Gold is a gold-backed stablecoin introduced by Paxos in September 2019, built on the Ethereum blockchain. Since its launch, Pax Gold has gained significant traction, supported by over 50 vaults, exchanges, and lending platforms. Like other Paxos-issued stablecoins, it is regulated by the New York State Department of Financial Services (NYDFS).

How it Works

Each PAXG token represents one fine troy ounce of physical gold stored in secure vaults, Users can purchase PAXG with USD or Gold through Paxos, or its accredited third-party exchange service. Users can redeem their Pax Gold tokens for physical gold or USD. Purchase and sale of PAXG on the Paxos platform is subject to creation and destruction fees.

Check Reserve Reports here.

USDe


Source: cryptotimes

Ethena Labs’ stablecoin (USDe) is rapidly gaining traction in the cryptocurrency market. Founded in February 2023 by industry veteran Guy Young, Ethena aims to redefine the stablecoin landscape by addressing key industry challenges and creating a fully on-chain, scalable, and censorship-resistant form of money.

How USDe Works

Preferably referred to as synthetic dollar by its creators, users can access (mint) USDe, by exchanging other stablecoins or staked Ethereum (stETH). USDe is backed by delta-hedged positions of the deposited assets held in perpetual and futures markets. It also compliments the backing through a reserve fund, created from revenue generated by Ethena Labs. The reserve fund, composed of ETH, stablecoins, and other assets is controlled by 4/8 multisig of Ethena Labs contributors. Ethena also offers Staked USDe (sUSDe) as a reward to users for staking their USDe. Check audit reports here.

Unlike traditional fiat-backed or commodity-backed stablecoins, Ethena employs a sophisticated algorithmic approach combined with collateral adjustments to maintain its 1:1 peg to the US dollar. This innovative model eliminates the need for traditional currency reserves, setting it apart from competitors.

FRAX


Source: vietnaminsider

FRAX is a dollar-pegged stablecoin that pioneered a unique approach by combining elements of both collateralized and algorithmic stablecoin models. Initially known as Decentral Bank, founded in 2020 by Sam Kazemian, Travis Moore, and Jason Huan.

How FRAX Works

Frax maintains its peg through Algorithmic Market Operation (AMO) smart contracts and is partially backed by fiat-related assets such as;

  • Short-dated United States treasury bills
  • Federal Reserve Overnight Repurchase Agreements
  • USD deposited at Federal Reserve Bank master accounts
  • Select shares of money market mutual funds

Check Audit Reports here.

​USDB


Source: medium

USDB is an algorithmic stablecoin introduced in January 2023 by the Blast network, an EVM chain that provides a yield for stablecoins where users bridge their stablecoins to receive USDB.

How USDB Works

USDB maintains its peg to the US dollar through an auto-rebasing mechanism. The yield for USDB comes from MakerDAO’s on-chain Treasury bill protocol that’s MakerDAO DAI Savings Rate (DSR). USDB can be redeemed for DAI when bridging back to Ethereum.

Stasis Euro (EURS)


Source: coin-turk.com

Stasis Euro is a stablecoin pegged to the Euro and built on the Ethereum blockchain. Founded by Gregory Klumov in 2018 and launched by STASIS. It was developed to serve as a bridge between traditional and digital finance (cryptocurrency). Essentially, it offers users and investors a convenient way to hold and transact with Euros in a digital format.

How EURS Works

EURS is pegged to the Euro, at a ratio of 1:1, with Euro reserves held in European central banks. Users can buy EURS via the web app or on secondary markets like exchanges and on-ramp services. A 0.1% fee is applied to every purchase and sale of EURS.

Check Audit Reports here.

Pax Dollar (USDP)


Source: cryptotimes

Pax Dollar (USDP) is a stablecoin issued by Paxos Trust Company. Launched in September 2018, it was initially known as Paxos Standard before rebranding in 2021. Paxos, the company behind USDP, is led by founder Charles Cascarilla and is made up of industry veterans from Wall Street and Silicon Valley. USDP has formed strategic partnerships. Notably, its collaboration with MercadoPago—an online payment platform—has increased USDP’s adoption in Latin America, particularly Mexico, as a secure payment option. Additionally, the integration with Chainlink has enhanced USDP’s utility within the DeFi ecosystem, providing users with greater accessibility and security.

How USDP Works

USDP is accessible to users directly on Paxos by depositing USD or cryptocurrencies to mint the equivalent amount in USDP. It maintains a 1:1 peg to the United States Dollar by holding 1 USD in reserve for each 1 USDP token issued. USDP is backed by bankruptcy-remote reserves and regulated by the New York Department of Financial Services.

Check reserve reports here.

Alchemix USD (alUSD)


Source: iq.wiki-alusd

Alchemix USD is a fully collateralized and credit-based stablecoin designed to automate loan repayments. It is issued by the crypto-lending protocol, Alchemix, as a synthetic version of USD backed by underlying assets deposited in Alchemix vaults as collateral.

How alUSD Works

Users deposit other stablecoins (like DAI, USDC, or USDT) to mint 50% worth of their collateral in alUSD. Alchemix uses the deposited collateral to generate yield through various strategies, such as lending or staking which is automatically used to reduce the user’s debt. alUSD algorithmically maintains its peg to the US dollar using its transmuter and the Elixir Automated Market Operator. Check the available Audit reports here.

Differences Between the Stablecoins

The Stablecoin Trilemma

A stablecoin is best described as any cryptocurrency designed to have a relatively stable price, through being pegged to a currency or commodity or having its supply regulated by an algorithm. For this to happen, three factors must be in place:

Decentralization

The stablecoin should not rely on a centralized party to either issue and/or manage the stablecoin’s underlying collateral.

Stability

The stablecoin should maintain its peg, even in the harshest market conditions. This is mostly decided by the backing asset (USD, Gold, Cryptocurrency) and its pegging mechanism.

Capital efficiency

This refers to the amount of capital required to generate $1 worth of the stablecoin.

However, Stablecoins are faced with a trilemma, where Issuers have to trade off one of these factors to function effectively. Decentralization is often a challenge for stablecoins like USDT and FDUSD, where the collateral is held by centralized entities (e.g., banks, government treasury bills), and holders lack governance roles.

Price stability is a challenge for algorithmic Stablecoins, although capital efficient and decentralized, as there is no actual collateral backing the stablecoin, the algorithm is vulnerable to unforeseen market conditions that could trigger a de-pegging event.

Capital efficiency is a challenge for fiat and crypto-collateralized stablecoins where users have to deposit a significant amount of capital to mint or purchase the stablecoin. So far, no stablecoin is completely decentralized, stable, and capital efficient. However, newer models like FRAX have adopted hybrid methods combining algorithmic and asset-backed methods to maintain its peg.

Flatcoins: Anti-inflationary Stablecoins

Flatcoins are a type of stablecoin designed to address inflation by maintaining purchasing power rather than being pegged to a specific fiat currency. Unlike traditional stablecoins, which are typically pegged to a currency like the U.S. dollar, flatcoins aim to preserve value over time by adjusting their peg or algorithm in response to inflationary pressures. Notable Flatcoins already gaining traction are NUON by Laguna Labs, and SPOT by Ampleworth.

SPOT - The First Durable Decentralized Flatcoin


Source: SPOT

SPOT, developed by Ampleforth, describes itself as a low-volatility derivative of Ampleforth’s AMPL, an algorithmic stablecoin. The SPOT protocol operates by splitting AMPL’s volatility into two perpetual derivative assets;

  • SPOT: A low-volatile, debt-like instrument that can be used as a durable, inflation-tracking, stable asset
  • stAMPL: High-volatile staked AMPL

NUON


Source: Nuon

Nuon is a flatcoin developed by Nuon Finance, relying on the inflation index predictor Truflation. It integrates Truflation’s truConsumer Price Index, which tracks the increase in the cost of living and is supported by encrypted and verifiable population census data.

Dive deeper into what Flatcoin is in this detailed article on Gate Learn.

Future of Stable Coins: The A.I. Invasion

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) has ushered in a new era of possibilities across industries, and the stablecoin sector is no exception. By leveraging AI, stablecoin platforms are experiencing significant enhancements in performance, reliability, and security.

Key examples of AI’s strategic application in stablecoins include:

  • Tether’s AI Integration: Tether’s exploration of AI-powered solutions indicates a broader industry trend toward optimizing operations, thus paving the way for further innovation within the crypto space.
  • AI-based Trading Bots: These bots are revolutionizing the crypto market dynamics by executing trades based on real-time data, thereby improving market liquidity and stabilizing stablecoin values.
  • Risk Management: Platforms such as MakerDAO and FRAX have incorporated AI to efficiently manage collateral and reserves, ensuring the stability and reliability of their stablecoins.

Essentially, AI has the potential to revolutionize the functionality, security, and stability of stablecoins. As AI adoption in this sector expands and regulations evolve, we can expect to see remarkable advancements and innovations in the coming years.

Conclusion

The stablecoin landscape is evolving rapidly, driven by innovation, regulatory changes, and market demand. Each of the top 15 stablecoins analyzed offers unique features and advantages, from Tether’s increasing market dominance to the decentralized governance of DAI and the hybrid model of FRAX.

The introduction of AI technologies is poised to further enhance the stability, efficiency, and security of these digital assets. As stablecoins continue to gain traction in both traditional and decentralized finance, their role in the global economy is set to expand. Investors and users alike should stay informed about these developments to capitalize on the growing opportunities within the stablecoin sector.

Auteur: Paul
Vertaler: Piper
Revisor(s): Matheus、Piccolo
Translation Reviewer(s): Ashely
* The information is not intended to be and does not constitute financial advice or any other recommendation of any sort offered or endorsed by Gate.io.
* This article may not be reproduced, transmitted or copied without referencing Gate.io. Contravention is an infringement of Copyright Act and may be subject to legal action.
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