Japan's second-largest bank, SMBC, is set to launch its own stablecoin in collaboration with Ava Labs and Fireblocks, as reported by Nikkei. Experiments for the stablecoin are scheduled to begin in the latter half of 2025, aiming for a potential launch in 2026. This initiative seeks to enhance cross-border payment efficiency while reducing transaction costs.

Fireblocks has unveiled a stablecoin payments network aimed at assisting crypto and financial firms in the movement and utilization of USD-pegged tokens. With over 40 participants including Circle and Yellow Card, the network is poised to capitalize on the expected growth of the stablecoin market. This initiative aims to streamline payment processes and enhance infrastructure for traditional financial institutions exploring their own stablecoin solutions.