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This week’s weekly stablecoin recap shows how digital money continues to reshape global and African finance, from major launches to emerging policy shifts.
Across the international stage, Western Union made headlines by announcing plans to launch its own USD-backed stablecoin on the Solana blockchain. The move signals how legacy payment institutions are adapting to the crypto-driven future of remittances. If executed, Western Union’s stablecoin could redefine cross-border transfers and directly challenge existing blockchain remittance providers.
In Asia, regulators in China and South Korea took a more cautious approach. Beijing halted plans by Chinese tech giants such as Ant Group and JD.com to issue private stablecoins in Hong Kong, emphasizing concerns over monetary sovereignty. Meanwhile, South Korea’s financial watchdog warned of depegging risks, highlighting the need for stronger reserve transparency and compliance mechanisms.
Africa, however, remains one of the most interesting regions to watch. The continent’s stablecoin ecosystem continues to evolve beyond experimentation, driven by both innovation and necessity. Following the momentum from the Aptos Stablecoin Leadership Breakfast in Lagos, attention now turns to the West Africa Stablecoin Summit, set for Abuja later this month. The summit is expected to deepen discussions on local adoption, regional payment rails, and the role of African fintechs in shaping global digital finance.
Several African companies are also making moves. Nigerian firms like Zabira and OneRemit are positioning stablecoins as practical tools for real-time remittance and commerce. Their approach focuses on accessibility — bringing blockchain technology closer to small businesses and freelancers who struggle with traditional cross-border payment limits.
At the same time, regulatory momentum continues. The Central Bank of Nigeria’s developing framework for digital assets, coupled with Kenya’s early moves toward a digital shilling, shows that policymakers are taking stablecoins seriously. These efforts could set the stage for a uniquely African model of digital currency governance, one that balances innovation with monetary stability.
As the stablecoin market grows past $280 billion globally, Africa’s role is expanding from a passive observer to an active participant in shaping its direction. The stories emerging each week suggest one clear theme: stablecoins are no longer a niche concept. They are fast becoming a bridge between traditional finance and the future of money.
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