Stablecoins explained: how USDC makes cross-border payments instant
1TCH Team·Jul 21, 2026· 6 min read
What is a stablecoin?
A stablecoin is a digital token pegged to a stable asset — usually a fiat currency like the US dollar. USDC, the most widely used fully-reserved stablecoin, is backed 1:1 by cash and short-term US treasuries.
Why speed matters
Traditional cross-border wires can take one to five business days and pass through multiple intermediary banks, each taking a cut. On-chain USDC settles in seconds for a fraction of a cent.
How 1TCH uses USDC
When you deposit fiat into your 1TCH wallet, it converts to a custodial USDB balance. On payout, Bridge settles that balance as on-chain USDC to your destination address — anywhere in the world, in seconds.