# Circle Unveils Arc, Its EVM-Compatible L1 Blockchain

*Author: Bankless*
*Published: Aug 12, 2025*
*Source: https://www.bankless.com/read/circle-unveils-arc-its-evm-compatible-l1*

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Circle has announced its next big move: Arc, a new EVM-compatible layer-1 network optimized for stablecoin use, using USDC as the native gas token to enable instant, enterprise-grade payments.

### What’s the Scoop?
- **Meet Arc:** Circle introduced Arc—a new layer-1 blockchain designed specifically for stablecoin finance, especially USDC-based transactions.
- **USDC Pays the Bills:** Instead of ETH, Arc runs on USDC as its native gas currency.
- **Built for Speed & Privacy:** Arc offers sub-second settlement times, optional privacy controls, and is designed for compliance-focused environments like capital markets and cross-border payments.
- **Full-Stack Ambitions:** Circle positioned Arc as a core part of its broader strategy to become an “internet financial system,” offering a full-stack platform tailored to digital dollars.
- **Backed by Q2 Metrics:** The Arc reveal coincided with a strong Q2 performance—Circle posted a 53% year-over-year rise in revenue and reserve income, though it still logged a net loss tied to IPO-related costs.