Circle and Hyperliquid launch native USDC via Cross-Chain Transfer Protocol v2 driving $1.2 billion inflows and 3% HYPE token rise

Circle has launched native USDC on the Hyperliquid platform using its Cross-Chain Transfer Protocol v2, removing the need for wrapped tokens or custodial bridges in the process. This integration allows users to access stablecoins directly on Hyperliquid’s HyperEVM environment, streamlining cross-chain transactions and enhancing decentralized finance (DeFi) utility [1]. The move is part of a broader collaboration between Circle Internet Financial and Hyperliquid aimed at expanding USDC’s role in high-performance trading ecosystems.

The launch of native USDC on Hyperliquid comes as the platform sees a significant boost in assets under management (AUM). The initiative has driven $1.2 billion in new USDC inflows, pushing Hyperliquid’s AUM to $5.5 billion. The HYPE token, Hyperliquid’s native governance token, rose by 3% following the announcement, indicating positive market sentiment [1]. Analysts note that this development could shift liquidity dynamics in the DeFi sector, particularly in relation to competing Ethereum Layer 2 solutions, though no immediate concerns have been raised among investors.

This collaboration leverages Circle’s Cross-Chain Transfer Protocol v2, which enables secure and efficient movement of native USDC across multiple blockchains. According to Circle’s official blog, the integration allows users to bypass the need for wrapped tokens or third-party bridges, thereby improving transaction efficiency and reducing dependency on intermediaries. The integration is expected to support both spot and derivatives traders on Hyperliquid, enhancing the platform’s appeal to a broader range of market participants [1].

From an analytical standpoint, the move underscores the increasing importance of native token integration in DeFi. By offering native USDC on Hyperliquid, Circle is reinforcing the stablecoin’s role in fast, scalable, and interoperable trading environments. This strategy aligns with broader industry trends emphasizing performance and security, and could set a precedent for future partnerships between stablecoin issuers and trading platforms. The ability to move USDC natively without intermediaries may also contribute to deeper liquidity pools and more efficient price discovery on Hyperliquid.

The timing of the integration is notable against the backdrop of evolving regulatory environments in the United States. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) continues to engage with the crypto industry, and efforts to clarify the legal status of digital assets remain ongoing. Circle’s partnership with Hyperliquid reflects a proactive approach to building infrastructure that supports the needs of a maturing digital asset market while navigating regulatory uncertainty.

As the DeFi sector continues to expand, the integration of native stablecoins like USDC is likely to play a critical role in improving user experience and market efficiency. By removing barriers to seamless cross-chain activity, Circle and Hyperliquid are positioning themselves at the forefront of a new phase in decentralized trading.

Source: [1] https://coinmarketcap.com/community/articles/68931ab8e874124e573c79e7/