Stablecoins are evolving beyond their original role as trading tools and are increasingly being used for savings, payments and cross border income, according to a new global study conducted by BVNK in partnership with Coinbase and Artemis. The report suggests that the roughly $300 billion stablecoin market is becoming embedded in daily financial activity across multiple regions.
Based on a survey of 4,658 adults across 15 countries, the Stablecoin Utility Report 2026 found that 54% of crypto users held stablecoins within the past year and 56% plan to acquire more in the next 12 months. Among those who do not currently hold stablecoins, 13% indicated plans to begin using them. Half of existing holders reported increasing their balances over the previous year, signaling continued accumulation.
Stablecoins, typically pegged one to one with fiat currencies such as the US dollar, are designed to maintain price stability while operating on blockchain networks. Leading tokens including USDT and USDC account for a large share of total supply. The study indicates that holders now allocate roughly one third of their total savings to crypto assets and stablecoins combined, pointing to a shift from speculative positioning toward structured wealth allocation.
Adoption patterns vary across income levels and regions. Ownership rates were higher in low and middle income economies compared with high income markets, with Africa showing particularly strong growth and forward intent. Respondents in regions with volatile local currencies or limited cross border payment infrastructure demonstrated a greater inclination to hold stablecoins. The findings align with broader projections that dollar backed digital tokens could attract substantial flows from emerging market bank deposits over time.
Spending behavior also supports the view that stablecoins are circulating rather than remaining idle. Among holders, 27% said they use stablecoins directly for purchases, while 45% convert them into local currency before spending. More than a quarter convert or spend within days of receiving funds, and roughly two thirds do so within a few months.
For freelancers, gig workers and online sellers, stablecoins have become a meaningful income channel. Survey participants who receive payments in stablecoins reported that these tokens account for about 35% of their annual earnings on average. Nearly three quarters said that stablecoins improved their ability to work with international clients, while a similar proportion of marketplace sellers reported increased sales volumes or expanded customer bases.
Cost efficiency remains a major driver. Respondents receiving payments or remittances in crypto reported average fee savings of around 40% compared with traditional financial intermediaries. However, the study also identified friction points including irreversible transactions, complexity in wallet management and limited merchant acceptance.
As regulatory frameworks continue to develop in major markets, the data suggests stablecoins are increasingly functioning as digital cash alternatives for a growing segment of global users.
