Lesson 2 of 43 min

Stablecoins: USDT and USDC

Stablecoins are cryptocurrencies made to be worth the same as a traditional currency. USDT and USDC aim to be worth 1 dollar each.

Why use them

  • They move dollars over the internet, at any time, including on weekends.
  • They don't have the strong variation of coins like BTC or ETH.

Cautions

  • The stablecoin is issued by a company. Use the best-known ones.
  • The same stablecoin exists on multiple networks. When sending, the network must match.

What about BTC?

BTC is not a stablecoin: the price goes up and down. It can appreciate, but it can also drop a lot in a short time.

Summary

  • USDT and USDC aim to be worth 1 dollar each.
  • BTC and other coins vary in price; stablecoins should not vary.

Quick check

How much does one USDT aim to be worth?
Which of these varies most in price?