Meta Explores Stablecoin Payments for Instagram Creators
By Rony Roy
Published May 9, 2025, at 6:09 AM UTC
Meta Platforms Inc., the parent company of Instagram, is reportedly considering a significant shift towards cryptocurrency by exploring the possibility of integrating stablecoin payments for creators on its platforms. This development could represent Meta’s renewed interest in the digital currency landscape, following previous challenges related to its earlier cryptocurrency initiative.
Initial Discussions with Crypto Firms
According to sources familiar with the matter, Meta is currently engaged in preliminary discussions with various crypto infrastructure firms about potential stablecoin use cases. A report from Fortune, released on May 8, cites that these talks have been focused on the utilization of stablecoins for streamlined, small-scale payments to creators on Instagram, aiming at enhancing user experience and financial efficiency.
Executives involved in the discussions have suggested that the company is considering a diverse approach, potentially adopting a multi-token strategy. This would mean that Meta may remain flexible regarding which stablecoins it supports. Notable candidates under consideration include well-established tokens such as Tether (USDT) and USD Coin (USDC), with the company placing a priority on affordability and seamless integration within global markets.
Benefits of Stablecoin Integration
The integration of stablecoins could provide Meta with a valuable means to significantly reduce transaction fees and expedite cross-border payments. This is particularly relevant for creators operating in areas where traditional banking systems may be inefficient or costly. By utilizing stablecoins, Meta could facilitate faster and cheaper transactions, thereby enhancing the financial agility of its creators.
A Renewed Push into Crypto
The company’s renewed focus on cryptocurrency comes not long after it faced significant backlash surrounding its previous project, Libra, which was later renamed Diem. Originally envisioned as a global digital currency supported by a consortium of companies, including major names such as PayPal and Uber, the project faced intense scrutiny from regulators in both the U.S. and abroad. Facing insurmountable challenges, Meta ultimately abandoned the initiative in early 2022, opting to sell off Diem’s assets to a crypto-friendly bank, Silvergate.
New Leadership in Crypto Initiatives
Recently, Meta appointed Ginger Baker as Vice President of Product in an effort to strengthen its crypto-related initiatives. Baker, who previously served at Plaid and currently holds a position on the board of the Stellar Development Foundation, brings a wealth of experience in fintech and blockchain technology. She is reportedly playing a pivotal role in shaping Meta’s stablecoin efforts and is involved in liaising with potential crypto partners.
Industry Context and Regulatory Environment
The potential move by Meta aligns with a growing trend in which stablecoins are gaining traction among financial technology firms and institutional investors. Major brands, including Stripe, have already embraced stablecoin solutions, launching financial accounts based on stablecoins in over 100 countries as of May 7. However, the evolving landscape of stablecoin regulation remains complex. Recent legislative efforts, including the GENIUS Act designed to establish a federal oversight framework for stablecoins, faced setbacks in the U.S. Senate, failing to advance amid concerns from some lawmakers about issues like financial illicit activity and risks associated with foreign-issued stablecoins.
As corporate interest in the stablecoin market expands, industry stakeholders continue to navigate the intricate regulatory environment while innovating payment options in the digital age.
As Meta’s discussions progress, the outcomes could significantly change how creators transact and manage their earnings on social media platforms, further integrating cryptocurrency into mainstream financial practices. For now, the company remains cautiously optimistic as it explores these potential innovations in the world of digital currency.
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