USDC (USD Coin) is a stablecoin pegged 1:1 to the United States Dollar, offering the benefits of digital currency without the volatility typically associated with cryptocurrencies. Developed as a collaboration between Circle and Coinbase, USDC is fully backed by dollar-denominated assets, held in accounts subject to regular public reporting of reserves. USDC is widely used within the crypto ecosystem for trading, lending, and risk management as it combines the stability of fiat currency with the technological advantages of a digital asset.