USDC on Hyperliquid: Circle has taken a direct stake in HYPE, launched native USD Coin on HyperEVM for spot and perpetuals trading, and is evaluating validator status to support network security and liquidity. This move tightens stablecoin access and boosts on‑chain liquidity for derivatives on Hyperliquid.
-
Circle stakes HYPE and deploys native USDC on HyperEVM
-
Circle is considering validator participation to support network security and governance.
-
Hyperliquid’s ecosystem now has competing stablecoin initiatives while total network activity and staking remain robust.
USDC on Hyperliquid: Circle commits HYPE stake and native USDC on HyperEVM — read how this affects DeFi liquidity and validator dynamics.
Circle is now a HYPE holder, has introduced native USDC to Hyperliquid and is considering becoming a network validator.
Stablecoin issuer Circle has expanded into Hyperliquid with both a stake and a technical deployment, launching native USD Coin (USDC) on the protocol and taking a position as a HYPE token holder. The deployment places USDC natively on HyperEVM, enabling direct deposits for spot and perpetual markets on HyperCore.
Source: Circle
What is Circle’s move on Hyperliquid and why does it matter?
Circle’s launch of native USDC on Hyperliquid integrates a top-tier stablecoin directly into the protocol, reducing friction for traders and market makers. The company also holds HYPE tokens and is weighing validator status, which could strengthen network security and liquidity provision.
How will native USDC be used on Hyperliquid?
USDC on HyperEVM will be available for deposits into Hyperliquid’s spot and perpetuals exchange on HyperCore. This direct deposit capability lowers settlement complexity and can increase capital efficiency for derivatives traders. Circle described the deployment as the first step toward broader integration with Hyperliquid’s trading stack.
Circle completed its public listing on June 5, 2025, and said a company spokesperson that the launch follows plans disclosed earlier in July. The addition of native USDC joins an expanding set of stablecoin options on Hyperliquid as the protocol explores a native USDH stablecoin.
Who are Hyperliquid validators and what is the current staking picture?
Validators on Hyperliquid are HYPE holders who stake tokens to secure the blockchain, validate transactions, and govern upgrades. The active validator set is comprised of the top 21 staked participants. Roughly 430 million HYPE tokens are currently staked on the network, with major stakers including Galaxy Digital, Flowdex, and the Hyper Foundation.
What is the broader DeFi context for this move?
DeFi expanded significantly in 2025, with on‑chain real‑world asset tokenization and treasury strategies increasing institutional activity. According to DefiLlama, total value locked (TVL) across protocols rose to $158 billion from $117 billion in December — a ~35% increase over nine months. This growth underpins demand for native liquidity solutions like USDC on derivatives platforms.
How does the stablecoin competition on Hyperliquid affect users?
Hyperliquid recently ran a competition to select a partner to issue the protocol’s native stablecoin, USDH. Multiple issuers bid to support USDH, and validator governance selected Native Markets to issue it. The presence of native USDC alongside an upcoming native stablecoin creates both choice and competitive pricing for users, benefitting liquidity and market depth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Circle holding HYPE tokens as part of this move?
Yes. Circle is now a stakeholder in the Hyperliquid ecosystem and holds Hyperliquid’s native cryptocurrency, HYPE, as part of its engagement with the protocol.
How does this affect Hyperliquid’s stablecoin race?
The deployment of native USDC adds competitive liquidity while validators continue selecting a partner for USDH. This creates multiple stablecoin pathways for users, improving pricing and access.
Key Takeaways
- Native USDC deployment: Circle launched USDC on HyperEVM to support spot and perpetual trading on HyperCore.
- Stake and governance: Circle holds HYPE and is considering validator status, which could influence security and governance.
- DeFi momentum: TVL growth and rising trading volumes underscore stronger demand for native stablecoin liquidity in derivatives markets.
Conclusion
Circle’s move to deploy USDC on Hyperliquid and take a HYPE stake underscores a broader shift toward native stablecoin liquidity for derivatives platforms. With validator dynamics and a competitive stablecoin selection underway, traders can expect improved access and reduced settlement friction. Watch for further integration details and governance developments.
