TLDR
- William Blair initiated coverage on Circle with an “Outperform” rating.
- The firm called Circle is the most essential player in the stablecoin sector.
- Circle is expected to lead the shift from fiat to blockchain-based payments.
- USDC’s market cap could reach $150 billion by 2027 according to projections.
- Circle may generate over $1 billion in adjusted EBITDA if adoption rates continue to grow.
Investment bank William Blair has initiated coverage on Circle with an “Outperform” rating, citing long-term growth potential. The firm named Circle is a key player in the stablecoin sector, primarily due to its role in digital payments. Circle’s position in cross-border B2B transactions makes it central to the shift from fiat to blockchain-based commerce.
Circle Seen as Key to Blockchain-Based Payments
William Blair identified Circle as a major driver in replacing fiat payments with stablecoin commerce worldwide. The report emphasized Circle’s growing influence in cross-border business payments, a market valued at $24 trillion. According to analysts, Circle’s infrastructure can streamline international transactions by reducing costs and improving speed.
The investment bank projects a doubling of USDC’s market cap to $150 billion by 2027 under favorable conditions. If achieved, Circle could surpass $1 billion in adjusted EBITDA with expanding profit margins. Analysts noted Circle’s increasing diversification away from Coinbase could strengthen earnings and reduce dependency.
“Circle stands at the center of blockchain-based business payments,” the report stated, citing its focus on efficiency and innovation. The firm’s revenue, primarily earned from interest on USDC reserves, is expected to grow in tandem with adoption. William Blair said Circle’s income may fluctuate with interest rate changes, but will rise over time.
Circle Builds Infrastructure for Long-Term Use
Beyond stablecoin reserves, Circle is investing heavily in long-term payment infrastructure to widen USDC’s utility. The Circle Payments Network (CPN) aims to connect banks, blockchains, and fintech platforms through the use of smart contracts. Additionally, Circle’s launch of Arc, a layer-1 Ethereum-compatible blockchain, underlines its ambition in decentralized finance.
These efforts highlight Circle’s focus on commercial use cases, not just crypto trading. William Blair stated, “The infrastructure Circle is building positions it for long-term commercial success beyond the crypto ecosystem.” While current stablecoin use remains limited to trading, broader adoption in business could shift market dynamics.
Regulatory progress is necessary, as uncertainties remain around yield models and token classifications. The GENIUS Act offers some clarity, but does not fully resolve regulatory concerns. Circle’s success depends on achieving regulatory alignment that supports its business-focused roadmap.
Strategic Role of Coinbase in USDC Ecosystem
William Blair also addressed Coinbase’s role as Circle’s primary distribution partner for USDC. The report suggested Coinbase benefits directly from USDC adoption through shared interest income on reserve assets. As Circle expands, Coinbase is expected to remain a key participant in the ecosystem.
Despite trading at 57 times projected 2026 EBITDA, Circle’s valuation reflects strong long-term profitability. William Blair stated, “If Circle drives global USDC adoption, its premium valuation will be warranted.” With Circle’s efforts centered on transforming global payments, the bank maintains confidence in its strategic position.
