As digital payments evolve, major retailers are exploring new ways to make transactions faster and cheaper. Stablecoins backed by the US dollar could offer a direct path to move money without traditional banking rails. Two retail giants are now weighing this option, signalling a shift that could reshape how we pay online.
Walmart and Amazon are exploring the launch of their own US dollar‑backed stablecoins. The plans are under discussion now, as both retailers weigh the benefits of in‑house digital tokens for their customers.
Neither company has officially confirmed the reports. If they proceed, the new payment systems could divert billions in cash flow from traditional banking partners, a Wall Street Journal report stated.
The Case for Brand‑Specific Stablecoins
A branded stablecoin would let Walmart and Amazon move money faster and at lower cost. By tokenising US dollars, each retailer could settle transactions without relying on banks’ legacy rails.
Walmart’s e‑commerce platform reached over $100 billion in sales in 2023, while Amazon generated $638 billion in revenue last year, with $447 billion in global online sales. Saving on banking fees could translate into millions of dollars in earnings.
Regulatory Progress and the GENIUS Act
These deliberations come as the GENIUS Act advances in Congress. The bill aims to set the first clear rules for dollar‑backed stablecoins. It would require full reserves and oversight by federal or state regulators.
The Senate recently approved a key procedural vote by a 68 to 30 margin. With guardrails in place, big retailers may feel more confident issuing their tokens.
Also Read: China’s Financial Behemoth Ant Group Plans To Roll Out Stablecoins In Major Asian Financial Hubs
Industry Moves and Partnerships
On June 12th, Shopify confirmed plans to accept USDC payments for its merchants by the end of 2025. That move signals a shift toward stablecoin rails in e‑commerce. At the same time, Walmart and Amazon would be building custom networks under their brands.
Such systems could tie directly into loyalty programs, digital wallets, and shopping apps without extra intermediaries. As traditional payment methods face pressure to evolve, stablecoins could become the bridge between retail giants and next‑generation finance.
Potential Challenges Ahead
Launching a stablecoin is not without hurdles. Walmart and Amazon would need secure technology stacks and strong compliance teams. They must meet anti‑money laundering rules and manage reserve audits.
They would also face scrutiny from regulators and banks that risk losing transaction fees. Still, the growing clarity around stablecoin laws may tip the balance in favour of moving forward.
The prospect of Walmart and Amazon issuing dollar‑backed stablecoins highlights a turning point in digital payments. As rules become clearer, major retailers may seize the chance to build faster, cheaper rails for their customers. This trend could force banks and fintech firms to rethink how they process transactions in an evolving digital economy.
Also Read: U.S. Bancorp Eyes Stablecoin Sector, Says CEO Gunjan Kedia