- Meta aims to integrate third-party stablecoins across Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram in H2 2026.
- The company will not issue its own token, instead relying on providers like USDC.
- Stablecoin supply has surpassed $300 billion, offering deeper liquidity than during the Libra era.
Meta is preparing to re-enter stablecoin payments, targeting integration across Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram in the second half of 2026.
Unlike its failed Libra and Diem projects, Meta does not plan to issue its own token. Instead, it is seeking third-party providers to plug dollar-pegged stablecoins such as USDC into a new wallet system.
Third-Party Model After Diem Collapse
Meta’s earlier attempt at a global digital currency began in 2019 under the Libra name. Regulatory pressure forced a redesign under the Diem brand. The project shut down in early 2022, and assets were sold.
This time, Meta is operating at arm’s length. The company has sent out requests for proposals to outside firms to manage stablecoin-backed payments.
Stripe has emerged as a leading candidate. The payments firm acquired stablecoin infrastructure provider Bridge last year. Stripe CEO Patrick Collison joined Meta’s board in April 2025.
Payments Rail Shift
Meta controls platforms with more than 3 billion users. Plugging stablecoin rails into social apps would allow in-app payments, creator payouts, and cross-border transfers without relying fully on banks or card networks.
Visa and Mastercard shares have shown weakness as alternative payment systems emerge. Meta’s integration would further intensify that competition. Moreover, a $300 billion stablecoin market provides liquidity depth that did not exist during the Libra era.
Regulatory Backdrop in 2026
The US regulatory environment has changed significantly in favor of crypto since 2019. The GENIUS Act established a federal framework for stablecoin issuers, including reserve and audit standards.
Final implementation rules are still in progress, but the legal structure is clearer than during the Libra push. While Meta appears cautious, by relying on third-party issuers and infrastructure providers, it reduces direct regulatory exposure.
It is important to note that the integration of stablecoin payments would position Meta in direct competition with platforms such as X and Telegram, which are building in-app payment ecosystems.
Related: Trump-Backed Stablecoin USD1 Briefly Loses Peg Amid Social Media Breach
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Source: https://coinedition.com/meta-re-enters-crypto-payments-with-third-party-stablecoin-integration-in-2026/
