Stablecoin Transfers Surge Past $400M Per Hour Amid Growing US Banking Adoption

In the third quarter of 2026, adjusted stablecoin transfer volumes exceeded $400 million per hour, with quarterly activity totaling $891 billion. This represents more than a fourfold increase compared to early 2023, according to a recent report commissioned by Coinbase.
The report reveals that 73% of verified stablecoin transfers occur outside standard US banking hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Seven of the ten largest US banks have trialed stablecoins or tokenized deposits for payments, while 30% of mid-sized companies engaged in cross-border trade are either using or testing stablecoins—up from 10% in 2024. Additionally, business-to-business payment volume increased by 36% year over year.
Research by The Block identified 293 million blockchain addresses holding stablecoins, surpassing the combined number of American Express and Discover cards. However, the study cautions that addresses may not correspond one-to-one with individual users.
The report estimates that shifting 80% of international transactions to stablecoin networks could boost global GDP by $155 billion annually and release approximately $3 trillion in liquidity now held by banks to support cross-border payments.
These estimates are hypothetical projections rather than actual economic outcomes. Researchers also note that widespread stablecoin adoption might reduce bank lending, potentially offsetting some advantages from faster, cheaper payments.
A separate survey by the National Cryptocurrency Association found that 42% of US adults—about 112 million people—are more inclined to open accounts or increase usage with banks offering crypto services.
The survey also reveals that 18% of US adults are interested in buying or utilizing stablecoins through their primary banking institution. Meanwhile, 64% reported that their bank, credit union, or financial advisor has never discussed cryptocurrency, and 43% are unaware if their bank offers crypto services.
Despite rising transaction volumes, the stablecoin market capitalization stood at $301.42 billion recently, down slightly by 0.6% from $303.14 billion in October 2025, according to DefiLlama.
Last week, Standard Chartered delayed its stablecoin market forecast peak from 2028 to 2030, citing slower supply growth. Conversely, Citi projects the stablecoin market to reach $1.9 trillion by 2030 under its baseline scenario, with an optimistic estimate up to $4 trillion.
why
This comprehensive report highlights the rapid expansion and growing integration of stablecoins within US banking and business sectors, illustrating significant shifts in payment systems that could reshape global financial infrastructure while posing new economic considerations.
why content only about significance, no extra, no summary.
This indicates a pivotal development in financial technology adoption and international liquidity management.
The data underlines emerging trends that may influence monetary policy and banking operations moving forward.
Why it matters
The data illustrates a pivotal shift in financial technology and international liquidity management, highlighting the advancing integration of stablecoins in banking and global trade that could transform payment systems and economic activity.
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