Stablecoin Examples Other Currency: A Comprehensive Guide

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Stablecoins are a type of cryptocurrency that's pegged to a stable asset like the US dollar, making them less volatile than other cryptocurrencies.

One example of a stablecoin is USDC, which is issued by a joint venture between Circle and Coinbase.

USDC is pegged to the value of the US dollar and is widely used for cross-border transactions.

Tether (USDT) is another popular stablecoin that's pegged to the value of the US dollar.

It's worth noting that the USDT has faced some controversy in the past due to concerns over its backing.

The Dai stablecoin, on the other hand, is pegged to the value of the US dollar and is collateralized by Ether.

MakerDAO, the company behind Dai, uses a smart contract to manage the stablecoin's collateral.

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What Are They?

Stablecoins are a type of cryptocurrency that attempts to maintain a steady value by being pegged to an external asset, such as the US dollar.

They're designed to offer a safe harbor in the often-volatile crypto market, combining the stability of traditional currencies with the advantages of cryptocurrencies.

Credit: youtube.com, 3 MAIN Types of Stablecoins Explained

Stablecoins are asset-backed, which enables them to maintain their prices and avoid excess volatility.

By linking their market value to an external reference, such as a fiat currency or a commodity like gold, stablecoins can achieve price stability.

Stablecoins can be collateralized with real, fiat, or virtual assets to maintain their prices and avoid volatility.

Some stablecoins use algorithms to balance supply and demand to maintain a stable price, rather than being collateralized.

Consider reading: 2 Types of Stablecoins

Types of Stablecoins

Stablecoins come in different types, each with its own mechanism for maintaining value. The main types of stablecoins are algorithmic stablecoins, crypto-backed stablecoins, and fiat-backed stablecoins.

Fiat-backed stablecoins, like Tether and USD Coin, are backed by fiat currencies like the US dollar. They're often used as a store of value and a medium of exchange. For example, TrueUSD (TUSD) and USD Tether (USDT) are both pegged to the US dollar.

Algorithmic stablecoins use algorithms and smart contracts to control supply and demand, attempting to maintain a stable value without relying on collateral. Examples of algorithmic stablecoins include TerraUSD (UST) and Tron's USDD.

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Credit: youtube.com, Crypto: Types of stablecoins and how they work

Here's a breakdown of the different types of stablecoins:

Crypto-backed stablecoins, like Liquity USD (LUSD), are collateralized by other cryptocurrencies. They're often used by crypto natives who prioritize censorship resistance and stability.

Types

Stablecoins come in four main types, each with its own unique mechanism for maintaining value.

Algorithmic stablecoins use complex algorithms to control the supply of stablecoins, adjusting it based on market demand to keep the price stable.

Fiat-backed stablecoins, on the other hand, are backed by a reserve of fiat currency, which helps maintain their value.

Crypto-backed stablecoins use a reserve of other cryptocurrencies to back their value, rather than fiat currency.

These different types of stablecoins are suited for different purposes, and understanding their unique features can help you choose the right one for your needs.

Expand your knowledge: Stablecoin Use Cases

Fiat-Backed

Fiat-backed stablecoins are a type of stablecoin that's backed by a fiat currency, like the US dollar, euro, or Swiss franc. This means that for every stablecoin issued, there's an equal amount of fiat currency held in reserve by the issuing entity.

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Credit: youtube.com, What Are Fiat-Backed Stablecoins? StableClaire Explains: Episode #4

The value of fiat-backed stablecoins is pegged to one or more currencies in a fixed ratio, and the value connection is realized off-chain through banks or other types of regulated financial institutions. For example, TrueUSD (TUSD) and USD Tether (USDT) are both pegged to the US dollar.

Fiat-backed stablecoins are the most common type of stablecoin and were the first to hit the market. They're widely used and trusted by users coming from traditional finance. In fact, the most popular stablecoin, Tether, is a fiat-backed stablecoin.

Examples of fiat-backed stablecoins include Tether (USDT), USD Coin (USDC), and TrueUSD (TUSD). These stablecoins are backed by a fiat currency and can be traded on exchanges and redeemed from the issuer.

Here are some key characteristics of fiat-backed stablecoins:

  • Their value is pegged to one or more currencies in a fixed ratio
  • The value connection is realized off-chain through banks or other types of regulated financial institutions
  • The amount of the currency used to back the stablecoin should reflect the circulating supply of the stablecoin

Fiat-backed stablecoins offer a high degree of stability due to their fiat backing. They're also easily understandable and trusted by users coming from traditional finance. However, it's worth noting that the trust in the custodian of the backing asset is crucial for the stability of the stablecoin's price.

In January 2023, National Australia Bank announced that it would create an Australian Dollar fiat-backed stablecoin called the AUDN, for streamlining cross-border banking transactions and trading carbon credits. This is just one example of how fiat-backed stablecoins are being used in real-world applications.

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Examples of Stablecoins

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Stablecoins are a type of cryptocurrency designed to maintain a stable value relative to a fiat currency, such as the US dollar. They're often used for everyday transactions, like paying bills or buying coffee.

There are several types of stablecoins, including fiat-backed, crypto-backed, and hybrid stablecoins. For example, Gemini Dollar (GUSD) is a fiat-backed stablecoin that's fully backed by US dollars held in reserves.

Some popular stablecoins include Dai (DAI), which is a decentralized stablecoin that's backed by a mix of cryptocurrencies, and Pax Dollar (USDP), which is a fiat-collateralized stablecoin that's fully backed by US dollars.

Here's a list of some notable stablecoins:

  • Dai (DAI) - a decentralized stablecoin backed by a mix of cryptocurrencies
  • Pax Dollar (USDP) - a fiat-collateralized stablecoin fully backed by US dollars
  • Gemini Dollar (GUSD) - a fiat-backed stablecoin fully backed by US dollars
  • First Digital USD (FDUSD) - a fiat-backed stablecoin backed by US dollars held in reserves
  • Frax (FRAX) - a hybrid stablecoin that combines partial collateralization with algorithmic mechanisms

Dai

Dai is a decentralized stablecoin that's a cornerstone of the DeFi ecosystem. It's issued by MakerDAO, a decentralized autonomous organization, and is backed by a mix of cryptocurrencies.

Dai's algorithmic system adjusts collateral requirements to maintain its peg to the USD at a 1:1 ratio. This ensures that Dai remains stable and resistant to centralization and censorship.

Credit: youtube.com, DAI Stablecoin Explained (4 Minute Animation)

Here are some key facts about Dai:

  • Type of backing: Crypto-backed
  • Creation date: 2017
  • Market cap: #3 among stablecoins

Dai operates on the Ethereum blockchain as an ERC-20 token, but can also be found on other blockchains through cross-chain bridges. This makes it a versatile and widely-used stablecoin in the DeFi ecosystem.

With a market capitalization of over $5 billion, Dai is one of the largest stablecoins in existence. Its decentralized nature and algorithmic backing make it an attractive option for users looking for a stable and secure store of value.

Ampleforth (Ampl)

Ampleforth (Ampl) is a unique stablecoin that uses an elastic supply mechanism to maintain stable purchasing power. Its supply adjusts daily based on demand.

Ampleforth was created in 2019, and as of now, its market cap is around $35 million. Algorithmic stablecoins like Ampleforth use algorithms and smart contracts to control supply and demand.

These algorithmic stablecoins aim to maintain a stable value without relying on collateral. Instead of being backed by a reserve of assets, they rely on complex algorithms that adjust the coin's supply based on market demand.

Here's a brief summary of Ampleforth's characteristics:

  • Type of backing: Algorithmic
  • Creation date: 2019
  • Market cap: ~$35 million

First Digital

Credit: youtube.com, What are stablecoins, and how do they work?

First Digital is a relatively new stablecoin that's making waves in the market. It's backed by USD held in reserves and audited monthly by an independent accountant.

First Digital USD, or FDUSD, targets businesses and individuals looking for a reliable, blockchain-based alternative for payments, remittances, and savings. It's a fiat-backed stablecoin, which means its value is pegged to the US dollar.

FDUSD was launched in 2023 and has quickly risen to prominence, reaching a market cap of $3.85 billion as of May 2024. It's available on multiple blockchains, including Ethereum, BNB Chain, and Sui.

Here are some key facts about FDUSD:

FDUSD's stability is backed by cash reserves and investments in U.S. Treasuries, although S&P Global Ratings has deemed its ability to maintain a peg to the U.S. Dollar as ‘constrained.’

2021 Top List

The discussion on stablecoins is gaining attention worldwide, but understanding them requires more than just their definition and features.

Credit: youtube.com, Top 10 Stablecoins To Watch 2020 and 2021

There isn't a single "best" stablecoin, so it's essential to consider different types of stablecoins and their purposes.

Stablecoins are suited for different needs, and their security features and approach to decentralization vary.

To find the top stablecoins for 2021, it's crucial to look at their potential for exceptional results.

The list of stablecoins that have the potential for ensuring exceptional results in 2021 is what you should be focusing on.

Curious to learn more? Check out: How Do Stablecoins Work

How They Work

Stablecoins work by pegging their value to a reserve asset, such as fiat currency or commodities, via collateralization or code.

Stablecoins use collateralization or code to link their value to a reserve asset, ensuring their value remains stable.

Their value is tied to a reserve asset, which provides a safety net and prevents the coin's value from fluctuating wildly.

By pegging their value to a reserve asset, stablecoins aim to reduce the volatility associated with other cryptocurrencies.

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Limitations and Risks

Stablecoins can be vulnerable to bugs in their code, which can be exploited by attackers.

Credit: youtube.com, Are Stablecoins Stable? Stablecoin Risk Analysis by type of stablecoin. USDT USDC BUSD DAI & more

Algorithmic and crypto-backed stablecoins are particularly susceptible to these risks.

The Beanstalk stablecoin protocol was exploited through a flash loan attack, where an attacker borrowed a large amount of governance tokens to pass a malicious proposal and steal the protocol's funds.

Reputable stablecoins will undergo regular audits, such as proof-of-reserves audits, and publish the details of their reserves periodically to ensure transparency and accountability.

Lack of Transparency

Tether, the world's largest market capitalization stablecoin, has been accused of failing to produce audits for reserves used to collateralize the quantity of minted USDT stablecoin.

The lack of transparency surrounding Tether's reserves has led to speculation about the true backing of the USDT stablecoin. This has raised concerns among investors and regulators alike.

Tether has since issued assurance reports on USDT backing, but some speculation persists.

De-Pegging

De-pegging is a risk associated with stablecoins. Many projects can advance a product and call it a stablecoin, but they may not necessarily be stable.

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Stablecoins like TerraUSD have been crashed to zero in the past, showing the fragility of these digital assets. Despite their name, many stablecoins need more stability because digital assets can be built to many different standards.

The lack of standardization among stablecoins makes them vulnerable to de-pegging. This can lead to significant losses for investors who hold these assets.

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Security

Security is crucial when it comes to stablecoins. Reputable stablecoins are the way to go, so do your research and don't invest in ones you've never heard of.

Stablecoins that rely on smart contracts are vulnerable to bugs in their code. Algorithmic and crypto-backed stablecoins are especially susceptible to these risks.

The Beanstalk stablecoin protocol was exploited through a flash loan attack, which is a type of attack that can be devastating. The attacker borrowed a large amount of Beanstalk's governance token and used it to pass a malicious proposal that stole the protocol's funds.

Regular audits are vital to understanding how reserves are managed. Most reputable stablecoins undergo proof-of-reserves audits and publish the details of their reserves periodically in the spirit of transparency.

Regulatory Environment

Credit: youtube.com, MAS releases regulatory framework for single-currency stablecoins

The regulatory environment for stablecoins is a complex issue. Nellie Liang, Under Secretary of the Treasury for Domestic Finance, has reported to the Senate banking committee that the rapid growth of the stablecoin market capitalization requires urgent Congressional regulation.

US legislation is progressing in May 2024 to provide increased regulatory clarity for many digital assets. The Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act excludes certain stablecoins from regulation by the SEC, except for fraud and certain activities by registered firms.

The CFTC is also excluded from regulating these stablecoins.

Crypto Assets and Stablecoins

Some stablecoins are backed by crypto assets, which is a different story from traditional stablecoins. These types of stablecoins are often capable of maintaining an over-collateralized position.

You can find a list of these stablecoins online, which is a good resource for learning more about them.

Specific Stablecoins

Havven's Nomin, also known as eUSD, is a notable stablecoin that leverages Havven's escrow technology to derive its value. It's an ERC-20 token, making it compatible with the Ethereum mainnet.

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The eUSD stablecoin allows users to derive it by placing Ether (ETH) in escrow, with the generated ETH from fees on eUSD going to the users who have placed the ETH in escrow. This design makes it a strong contender for serving as a stable token for Ethereum.

Despite its potential, eUSD has faced criticism for its complicated design, which may raise concerns about transparency among users.

Pax Gold (Paxg)

Pax Gold (PAXG) is a stablecoin backed by physical gold stored in LBMA vaults in London. Each PAXG token represents one troy ounce of gold.

It's a common choice for investors seeking exposure to the price of gold without the complexities of storage and transport. Pax Gold is issued by Paxos.

Pax Gold was created in 2019 and has a market cap of top 15. This stablecoin combines the stability of an enduring asset with the flexibility of blockchain technology.

Here are some key facts about Pax Gold:

  • Type of backing: Commodity-backed (gold)
  • Creation date: 2019
  • Market cap: Top 15

Kava

Credit: youtube.com, Hidden StableCoin Gem USDX on KAVA App| Earn APR of 41%

Kava is a blockchain-based platform that offers a decentralized lending and borrowing system. This system allows users to lock their crypto as collateral and mint USDX, a stablecoin that can be used in other applications.

USDX is a popular stablecoin among DeFi enthusiasts, known for its transparency and efficiency. It's backed by a variety of crypto assets and supports lending and borrowing within the Kava ecosystem.

Kava's USDX stablecoin has gained significant traction since its creation in 2020. It's now ranked among the top 20 stablecoins by market capitalization.

Here's a brief overview of USDX:

  • Type of backing: Crypto-backed
  • Creation date: 2020
  • Market cap: Top 20

Defunct

Basis, a stablecoin project, shut down in December 2018 after receiving over $100 million in venture capital funding due to concerns about US regulation.

Terra's stablecoin UST had a catastrophic fall from $1 to 26 cents on May 11, 2022, leading to the failure of Terraform Labs and a loss of nearly $40B invested in Terra and Luna coins.

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The subsequent failure of Terraform Labs resulted in the loss of nearly $40B invested in Terra and Luna coins.

Diem, formerly known as Libra, was abandoned by Facebook/Meta and later purchased by Silvergate Capital.

Here's a brief rundown of the notable defunct stablecoins:

  • Basis: Shut down in December 2018 due to US regulation concerns.
  • Terra's UST: Crashed from $1 to 26 cents on May 11, 2022, leading to Terraform Labs' failure.
  • Diem (formerly Libra): Abandoned by Facebook/Meta and later purchased by Silvergate Capital.

Department of Agriculture

The Department of Agriculture, or USDA, has a unique stablecoin called USDA. This stablecoin tracks the price of the U.S. Dollar, providing stability for blockchain trades.

USDA's stability is achieved through reserves of tokenized Treasury Bills, Government Bonds, and other USD liquid stablecoins, all enforced by multi-audited smart contracts.

The USDA stablecoin is issued by Angle Protocol, a renowned protocol for its resilient stablecoin infrastructure. Angle Protocol is behind the creation of USDA.

USDA is available on multiple blockchains, including Ethereum, Arbitrum, Optimism, Base, Polygon, Polygon zkEVM, BNB, Avalanche, Linea, and Celo.

Palladium Coin

Palladium Coin is an example of a commodity-backed stablecoin, powered by Ethereum and associated with the value of palladium.

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The value of Palladium Coin is linked to the value of palladium, which allows for easier and anonymous asset purchases. This makes it an attractive option for investors.

Palladium Coin also allows for fractional ownership of palladium, which is not possible with traditional purchases. This flexibility is a major advantage of using this stablecoin.

The purchasing system is fully automated, making it a convenient option for users. Users can also request cashing out their stablecoin for physical palladium.

However, it's worth noting that users will lose their anonymity when requesting physical palladium.

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Havven's Nomin

Havven's Nomin, also known as eUSD, is an ERC-20 token that serves as a representative of a new generation of stablecoins. It was introduced in 2020.

Havven's Nomin is backed by escrow technology that leverages the Havven tokens and the Ethereum mainnet. This means that users can derive eUSD by placing Ether or ETH in escrow.

The ETH generated from fees on eUSD goes to the users who have placed the ETH in escrow. This provides a unique revenue stream for Havven community members.

The team behind eUSD includes many experienced leaders in the domain of blockchain and fintech, which adds to its credibility. This foundation is a significant advantage for Havven's Nomin.

Here are some key facts about Havven's Nomin:

  • Type of backing: Escrow technology
  • Creation date: 2020

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top 4 stablecoins?

The top 4 stablecoins by market cap are Tether (USDT), USDC, Dai (DAI), and First Digital USD (FDUSD), with market caps of $128.87 billion, $37.89 billion, $5.37 billion, and $2.46 billion respectively. These stablecoins are widely used for trading and investment purposes.

Virgil Wuckert

Senior Writer

Virgil Wuckert is a seasoned writer with a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling. With a background in insurance and construction, he brings a unique perspective to his writing, tackling complex topics with clarity and precision. His articles have covered a range of categories, including insurance adjuster and roof damage assessment, where he has demonstrated his ability to break down complex concepts into accessible language.

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