Key Highlights
- Circle is preparing to launch cirBTC, a wrapped Bitcoin token backed 1:1 with real Bitcoin.
- The reserves for cirBTC will be visible onchain in real time, so users can easily verify that the Bitcoin backing exists.
- The product is built for institutions and aims to solve trust issues that have kept over $1.7 trillion in Bitcoin out of DeFi.
Circle, the issuer of USDC, is joining the wrapped Bitcoin token market with its own version called cirBTC.
According to its website, the product is intended for institutional users worldwide. The firm said that it will launch on Ethereum and Circle’s Arc blockchain, allowing users to access Bitcoin in decentralized finance.
How cirBTC works and who can use it
Each cirBTC token will be backed 1:1 by real Bitcoin. This means that for every cirBTC issued, there is an equivalent amount of Bitcoin stored by the company. The company said the reserves will be visible on the blockchain, allowing anyone to verify them at any time. This is expected to reduce the need to trust third parties to confirm the backing.
“cirBTC is designed to provide institutions with a highly secure and neutral version of wrapped BTC,” Circle said in a statement. The firm added that the token will integrate with its existing systems, including its Arc blockchain and Circle Mint platform, which is used to issue and redeem USD Coin and EURC.
The company said cirBTC is built for large users such as OTC trading desks, market makers, lending platforms, and liquidity providers. These users can use cirBTC as collateral or as a way to settle transactions. Circle also said the token is designed to work across different blockchains, starting with Ethereum and Arc.
What’s next
Circle stated many institutions have avoided wrapped Bitcoin products due to concerns about custody and transparency. cirBTC is designed to address these issues by providing clear reserve data and operating within Circle’s existing compliance and licensing framework, which includes approvals in the United States and Bermuda.
The product is currently listed as “coming soon” on the firm’s website, and no launch date has been given. The firm said access will depend on regulatory approvals, and institutions can join a waiting list through Circle’s product page.
Circle also noted that digital assets can change in value, are not legal tender, and are not covered by deposit insurance.
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