2023 wasn’t kind to Bitcoin and Ethereum. But as their prices have more or less stabilized, many people are wondering if they’re really ready for mainstream adoption. Enter stablecoins.
These cryptocurrencies are designed to maintain a stable value, usually pegged to a traditional asset like gold or the US dollar. This makes them much less volatile than other cryptocurrencies and, therefore, more attractive to users who want to use them for everyday transactions.
There are currently several stablecoins on the market, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The most popular include Tether (USDT), Paxos Standard (PAX), and TrueUSD (TUSD).
How do stablecoins work?
Stablecoins generally work in one of two ways: either they’re backed by a reserve of assets, or they’re pegged to a fiat currency.
Asset-backed stablecoins
Asset-backed stablecoins are backed by a reserve of assets, usually other cryptocurrencies. The most popular asset-backed stablecoin is Tether, which is backed by Bitcoin. This means that a corresponding Bitcoin is held in reserve for every Tether token in circulation.
Fiat-pegged stablecoins
Fiat-pegged stablecoins are pegged to a fiat currency, like the US dollar or the Euro. The most popular fiat-pegged stablecoin is Paxos Standard, which is pegged to the US dollar. This means that each Paxos token is worth exactly one US dollar.
What are the benefits of stablecoins?
Stablecoins offer a number of advantages over other cryptocurrencies, including:
Reduced volatility
Stablecoins are much less volatile than other cryptocurrencies, making them more suitable for everyday transactions.
Increased stability
The peg or reserve keeps the price of stablecoins relatively stable, even when the prices of other cryptocurrencies fluctuate wildly.
Greater trust
Stablecoins are usually backed by a reputable institution, which helps to instill confidence in the token.
What are the risks of stablecoins?
Stablecoins are not without their risks, however. These include:
Counterparty risk
If the institution backing a stablecoin fails, the coin’s value could drop sharply. This is why it’s important to research any stablecoin before investing.
Regulatory risk
Stablecoins could come under scrutiny from regulators, which could lead to them being banned or heavily restricted.
Technology risk
As with any cryptocurrency, there is a risk that the underlying technology could fail or be hacked.
Despite these risks, stablecoins are becoming increasingly popular as a way to store value and make everyday transactions. If you’re considering investing in stablecoins, be sure to do your research first and only invest what you can afford to lose.
What are some popular stablecoins?
Tether (USDT)
Tether (USDT) is a cryptocurrency that is pegged to the US dollar. Each Tether token is worth exactly one US dollar, and the coin is backed by a reserve of assets, usually other cryptocurrencies. Tether is the most popular asset-backed stablecoin on the market.
USD Coin (USDC)
USD Coin (USDC) is a cryptocurrency that is pegged to the US dollar. Each USD Coin is worth exactly one US dollar, and the coin is backed by a reserve of assets, usually other cryptocurrencies. USD Coin is the second most popular asset-backed stablecoin on the market.
Paxos Standard (PAX)
Paxos Standard (PAX) is a cryptocurrency that is pegged to the US dollar. Each Paxos token is worth exactly one US dollar, and the coin is backed by a reserve of assets, usually other cryptocurrencies. Paxos Standard is the most popular fiat-pegged stablecoin on the market.
Binance BUSD
Binance USDBUSD is a cryptocurrency that is pegged to the US dollar. Each Binance token is worth exactly one US dollar, and the coin is backed by a reserve of assets, usually other cryptocurrencies. Binance is the most popular exchange-traded stablecoin on the market.
TrueUSD (TUSD)
TrueUSD (TUSD) is a cryptocurrency that is pegged to the US dollar. Each TrueUSD token is worth exactly one US dollar, and the coin is backed by a reserve of assets, usually other cryptocurrencies. TrueUSD is the second most popular fiat-pegged stablecoin on the market.
DAI (DAI)
DAI (DAI) is a cryptocurrency that is pegged to the US dollar. Each DAI token is worth exactly one US dollar, and the coin is backed by a reserve of assets, usually other cryptocurrencies. DAI is the third most popular fiat-pegged stablecoin on the market.
TRC-20 Token Standard
You may have noticed by now that TRASTRA has expanded its support to include USDT TRC-20, a stablecoin that operates on the TRON blockchain. This move enhances the versatility of the TRASTRA wallet, allowing you to store, send, and receive USDT TRC-20 seamlessly.
The inclusion of USDT TRC-20 is significant as it represents a shift from the commonly used ERC-20 token standard, which operates on the Ethereum blockchain, to the TRC-20 standard (don’t get me wrong, we still provide full support for USDT ERC-20).
ERC-20 vs. TRC-20: The Primer
While both ERC-20 and TRC-20 are token standards that define a set of rules for functionality within their respective ecosystems, they operate on different blockchains with distinct characteristics. ERC-20 tokens are widely used and have been foundational for many Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs). However, TRC-20 tokens, like USDT TRC-20, offer faster transaction speeds and lower fees due to the efficiency of the TRON network. Despite these differences, TRC-20 is fully compatible with ERC-20, ensuring interoperability and flexibility for users. TRASTRA’s support for USDT TRC-20 underscores its commitment to providing its users with a diverse range of stablecoin options for their digital asset management needs.
What are some stablecoin wallets?
There are a number of wallets that support stablecoins, including:
Coinbase Wallet
Coinbase Wallet is a mobile wallet that allows you to store, send, and receive cryptocurrencies. Coinbase Wallet also supports stablecoins, such as USD Coin (USDC) and Paxos Standard (PAX).
TRASTRA wallet
TRASTRA wallet is a desktop and mobile wallet that allows you to store, send, and receive cryptocurrencies. TRASTRA wallet also supports stablecoins, such as Tether (USDT) and USD Coin (USDC).
Trust Wallet
Trust Wallet is a mobile wallet that allows you to store, send, and receive cryptocurrencies. Trust Wallet also supports stablecoins, such as USD Coin (USDC) and Paxos Standard (PAX).
Atomic Wallet
Atomic Wallet is a desktop and mobile wallet that allows you to store, send, and receive cryptocurrencies. Atomic Wallet also supports stablecoins, such as USD Coin (USDC) and Paxos Standard (PAX).
MetaMask
MetaMask is a desktop and mobile wallet that allows you to store, send, and receive cryptocurrencies. MetaMask also supports stablecoins, such as USD Coin (USDC) and Paxos Standard (PAX).
What are some things to consider before investing in stablecoins?
– Do your research: Make sure you understand the risks involved in investing in stablecoins.
– Consider your investment goals: Consider why you want to invest in stablecoins and what you hope to achieve.
– Start small: If you’re new to investing, it’s always a good idea to start with a small investment and gradually increase it over time.
– Have a plan: Decide how you’ll handle your stablecoins if the price starts to go up or down.
– Stay informed: Keep up with the latest news and developments in the world of stablecoins so you can make informed investment decisions.
Conclusion
Stablecoins are becoming increasingly popular as a way to store value and make everyday transactions. They offer several advantages over other cryptocurrencies, including reduced volatility and increased stability. However, they are not without their risks, including counterparty, regulatory, and technology risks. If you’re considering investing in stablecoins, be sure to do your research first and only invest what you can afford to lose.
FAQ
What is a stablecoin?
A stablecoin is a cryptocurrency that is pegged to another asset, such as the US dollar or gold. Stablecoins offer stability and reduced volatility, making them an attractive option for those looking to store value or make everyday transactions.
What are some advantages of stablecoins?
The main advantages of stablecoins are their stability and reduced volatility. Stablecoins are also more efficient than traditional fiat currencies and offer the potential for lower transaction fees.
What are some risks associated with stablecoins?
There are a number of risks associated with stablecoins, including counterparty, regulatory, and technology risk. It’s important to do your research and understand these risks before investing in stablecoins.
How do I buy stablecoins?
You can buy stablecoins on a number of exchanges, such as Coinbase, Binance, and Kraken. You can also purchase them from a variety of online vendors.
Where can I store my stablecoins?
There are many wallets that support stablecoins, including TRASTRA wallet, Coinbase Wallet, Trust Wallet, Atomic Wallet and many others.
What is the difference between a fiat-backed stablecoin and a crypto-backed stablecoin?
A fiat-backed stablecoin is pegged to a fiat currency, such as the US dollar, while a crypto-backed stablecoin is pegged to another cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin.
