Key Insights:
- Citigroup is working with Coinbase to test stablecoin payments for corporate clients globally.
- The trial focuses on using stablecoins for fast, round-the-clock cross-border business payments.
- Coinbase will provide blockchain infrastructure for Citi’s planned stablecoin-based payment system.
- Citi may launch the service soon if client demand and system tests meet expected performance.
Citigroup is working with Coinbase to test stablecoin-based cross-border payments for corporate clients, according to a Bloomberg report. The plan focuses on faster settlements and easier crypto-fiat transfers using blockchain technology.
Citigroup Begins Stablecoin Payment Trial with Coinbase
Citigroup has partnered with Coinbase to explore the use of blockchain technology for cross-border payments involving stablecoins. The bank is exploring how digital assets can be utilized to streamline the transfer process and provide faster transaction speeds for business clients.
According to Bloomberg, Citigroup has partnered with Coinbase to explore stablecoin-based cross-border payments for corporate clients. The initiative aims to simplify crypto-fiat conversions and enable faster settlements. Citi is considering launching on-chain stablecoin payments…
— Wu Blockchain (@WuBlockchain) October 27, 2025
This move is part of Citi’s wider approach to blockchain adoption. The bank aims to create a 24/7 transaction system for corporate use. By testing stablecoin transfers, Citi plans to reduce processing time and ease currency conversion steps in international payments.
Project Focused on Speed and Programmable Transactions
The system under review will utilize stablecoins to facilitate payments that can be processed at any time. This could support programmable finance features, such as scheduled or conditional payments. Stablecoins, due to their stable value, are seen as more reliable for business transactions.
Citi is expected to roll out its on-chain payment service in the coming months, provided testing meets its goals. However, the timeline for a full-scale launch has not been confirmed.
Coinbase to Support the Infrastructure for Stablecoin Settlements
Coinbase will provide the infrastructure and blockchain tools for Citi’s stablecoin testing. The exchange brings experience in asset custody, wallet security, and transaction tracking. These features are key in handling large volumes of corporate-level payments.
This collaboration enables Citi to enter the blockchain-based payments market without having to build the whole infrastructure from scratch. While Coinbase has partnered with other institutions before, this marks one of the larger projects involving a global bank.
Demand for 24/7 Payments Drives Institutional Interest
Citi’s move comes as more businesses ask for faster and round-the-clock payment options. Traditional banking systems often encounter delays, particularly when transactions cross borders. Blockchain and stablecoins may reduce such lags.
There is growing interest in programmable payments from our institutional clients. The service may attract more users if it can lower costs and improve transaction speed, though results will depend on testing.
