What happened?
Coinbase launched a new suite of tools in Coinbase Business that lets companies send and receive payments instantly using USDC. It includes global payouts that can send USDC to on-chain addresses or even by email, plus payment links customers can use to pay in seconds with no chargebacks or card fees. The rollout also adds a Payouts API, contact management, accounting integrations, and the plan to merge Coinbase Commerce into Coinbase Business.
Who does this affect?
Startups, established businesses, developers, contractors, vendors, and merchants who need to pay or get paid across borders are the primary users. Customers who pay with crypto wallets and finance teams who need cleaner reconciliation through QuickBooks/Xero will also benefit. Payment processors, banks, and card networks could feel pressure as companies shift to faster, cheaper stablecoin-based transfers.
Why does this matter?
This can speed cash flow and cut fees for cross-border payments, making it cheaper and faster to move money globally. Broader business use of USDC could accelerate stablecoin adoption and undercut revenue from card processing and traditional wire transfers. If Coinbase scales these tools, it could push merchants and payment platforms to adopt crypto rails and force legacy players to innovate or risk losing market share.