Binance signs 5-year deal with Circle, invests $100M to boost USDC in emerging markets

Binance and Circle have entered into a new five-year commercial agreement to expand access to the USDC stablecoin, particularly in emerging markets. As part of the strategic partnership, Binance invested $100 million in Circle by acquiring 1,237,011 shares of Class A common stock at $80.84 per share. The deal, finalized on September 17, 2026, includes provisions for monthly incentive fees paid by Circle to Binance based on USDC balances held via Circle's smart contract wallet infrastructure. Binance has agreed to a lock-up period of up to two years for the acquired shares, subject to certain conditions.