The stablecoin market is experiencing rapid growth and could radically transform global payment systems in the coming decade. According to Chainalysis, by 2035, the total volume of real economic transactions involving stablecoins could exceed $719 trillion, and considering macroeconomic factors, it could reach $1.5 quadrillion.
This is reported by Finway
Stablecoins Becoming the Foundation of Payment Infrastructure
Stablecoins are gradually evolving from a niche tool into a key element of modern payment infrastructure. Their advantages over traditional payment systems include 24/7 availability, lightning-fast transaction speeds, and the ability to conduct cross-border transfers without banking delays. Moreover, stablecoins are being integrated into digital services as “programmable money,” providing a new level of flexibility and efficiency in financial operations.
- Transactions occur 24/7, without breaks;
- Transactions are completed in seconds;
- No banking delays for international transfers;
- Money becomes programmable and integrates into digital platforms.
These advantages create a significant incentive for businesses and everyday users to switch to stablecoins for daily transactions.
Mass Capital Transition and Market Impact
One of the key factors for future growth will be the large-scale intergenerational redistribution of capital. Between 2028 and 2048, nearly $100 trillion will transfer from baby boomers to the millennial and Gen Z generations, who are significantly more active in using cryptocurrencies. About half of individuals in these groups already have experience with digital assets, making stablecoins a potential “default” financial tool for them. Traditional banks and financial institutions risk losing part of their clients and capital if they do not adapt to new technological realities.
“It is expected that between 2028 and 2048, up to $100 trillion will transfer from the baby boomer generation to millennials and Generation Z (Gen Z) — groups that are significantly more active in using cryptocurrencies.”
Analysts emphasize that this single factor could add over $500 trillion to the annual volume of stablecoin transactions by 2035.
Another important trend is the implementation of stablecoins at retail points of sale (POS). Currently, paying with cryptocurrency is a conscious choice, but with the spread of relevant technologies, it will become the standard, and the payment process will become an integral part of using digital assets.
Forecasts suggest that by 2031-2039, the transaction volumes of stablecoins could match those of industry giants like Visa and Mastercard. This will pose a serious challenge for traditional financial players.
- Stripe has acquired the crypto startup Bridge;
- Mastercard is expanding partnerships with cryptocurrency companies;
- On-chain payments are actively developing.
Leaders of major banks are already openly acknowledging the growing competition. In particular, JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon emphasized the “unprecedented competition” from stablecoins and blockchain, which requires adaptation of business models.
At the same time, according to Standard Chartered, the turnover rate of stablecoins has exceeded previously expected levels, partly due to new use cases, including payments facilitated by artificial intelligence. In the first quarter of 2026, the total supply of stablecoins reached $315 billion.
Despite the rapid growth of the market, regulators show no signs of panic. The White House stated that banks’ concerns about potential liquidity outflows due to stablecoins are “greatly exaggerated.”
