Singapore, April 8, 2026 — Thunes has joined the Circle Payments Network (CPN) Managed Payments framework, expanding its ability to support stablecoin-based settlement while continuing to operate within existing fiat payment systems. The move gives its customers access to blockchain-enabled settlement without requiring changes to their current workflows.
The development builds on the companies’ earlier collaboration, which began in 2024 around integrating stablecoin liquidity into cross-border payment flows.
Stablecoins Move Closer to Operational Use
Through the integration, Thunes will allow participants on its network to use USDC for near real-time settlement. At the same time, banks and payment providers can continue processing transactions through familiar fiat structures, which reduces the friction typically associated with adopting new rails.
Its Direct Global Network, which spans more than 140 countries, has already incorporated stablecoin-based liquidity over the past two years. This has allowed transactions to move outside traditional banking hours while easing dependence on pre-funded local accounts.
For institutions using the network, including fintechs and money transfer operators, the shift improves liquidity management and reduces capital sitting idle across multiple jurisdictions.
Less Reliance on Traditional Banking Timelines
One of the more practical outcomes is the removal of delays linked to correspondent banking and time-zone limitations. With settlement happening closer to real time, payment cycles become shorter and more predictable.
Thunes connects billions of mobile wallets, bank accounts and digital wallets, creating a system where blockchain infrastructure sits alongside traditional payment rails rather than replacing them.
Chloé Mayenobe, Deputy CEO at Thunes, said the step reflects the company’s focus on making different payment systems work together without friction.
Circle, which operates the USDC stablecoin network, is continuing to expand its role as a bridge between digital asset infrastructure and regulated financial institutions.
Why This Matters for Global Payments
What’s changing here is not a sudden shift away from banks, but how new infrastructure is being layered into existing systems. Stablecoins are being used where they solve a clear problem, particularly around settlement speed and liquidity.
This kind of integration lowers the barrier for adoption. Firms do not need to rebuild systems, they just plug into new capabilities.
About the Company: Thunes operates a global payments network enabling real-time cross-border transactions across more than 140 countries.
Digital Trade Outlook’s View: Circle Payments Network
Digital Trade Outlook Analysis
Stablecoins are now being used in live payment environments rather than limited pilots. For cross-border trade and payments, this improves settlement speed and frees up capital that would otherwise be locked in pre-funded accounts. The bigger shift is the quiet integration of blockchain into mainstream financial infrastructure.
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