Retail Giants Eye Blockchain for Faster Payments
Retail powerhouses Walmart and Amazon are reportedly considering launching their own stablecoins, signaling a major shift in the integration of digital currencies into global e-commerce. According to sources close to the matter, both companies are evaluating U.S. dollar-backed stablecoins to improve transaction speed, reduce fees, and enhance cross-border efficiency.
Neither company has officially confirmed their stablecoin initiatives, but internal discussions are reportedly underway.
Billions in Revenue Could Shift from Traditional Banking
Amazon posted $638 billion in total revenue in 2024, with $447 billion in global e-commerce sales. Meanwhile, Walmart’s global e-commerce revenue surpassed $100 billion in 2023, representing 17.8% of its total annual sales.
By integrating stablecoin payment rails, both companies could reduce reliance on banking intermediaries and save billions in transaction costs.
Stablecoins Enable Cost Efficiency and Speed
A stablecoin-backed payment system would enable near-instant settlements, minimize foreign exchange fees, and reduce payment delays for both consumers and vendors. For companies operating at Walmart and Amazon’s scale, these efficiencies could significantly impact operating margins.
Stablecoins can streamline international payments and provide real-time settlement — features increasingly vital in today’s global marketplace.
Institutional Adoption Gains Momentum
The move follows a growing trend among large institutions toward digital asset adoption. Shopify, another e-commerce giant, has already announced plans to integrate USDC payments by the end of 2025, signaling growing confidence in blockchain infrastructure.
The growing clarity in U.S. regulations around stablecoins may be encouraging corporations to experiment with blockchain-powered financial products.
Potential Disruption to Traditional Banking
If Walmart and Amazon proceed, this could pose a serious challenge to traditional banks and payment networks. The implementation of in-house stablecoins would bypass conventional card networks, potentially diverting billions in payment flow from banks to blockchain-based rails.
A stablecoin system could reduce credit card processing fees, settlement delays, and operational costs—benefiting both retailers and consumers.
Conclusion
As regulatory frameworks evolve and blockchain technology matures, the entrance of Amazon and Walmart into the stablecoin space may reshape the future of digital payments. While official confirmation is still pending, the implications for the global economy and financial system could be profound.