Global cryptocurrency exchange Binance has invested $100 million in stablecoin issuer Circle as part of an expanded five-year strategic partnership aimed at increasing the adoption and use of USD Coin (USDC) across Binance’s global platform.

The equity investment, announced on Tuesday, comes alongside the renewal and expansion of the companies’ partnership. Under the agreement, Binance will promote USDC across its platform, with a particular focus on emerging markets, while Circle will provide infrastructure services supporting the holding and use of the stablecoin.

USDC is a dollar-backed cryptocurrency stablecoin issued by Circle Internet Group and is designed to maintain a value tied to the US dollar.

Binance said the new strategic arrangement will have a term of five years. The company has more than 300 million users across over 100 countries, giving the partnership a broad potential reach for expanding access to dollar-denominated digital assets.

In India, Binance registered with the Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND) in 2024, following which it resumed operations in the country after a six-month gap.

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“Under the expanded partnership, Binance will promote USDC across its global platform, especially in emerging markets. Circle will provide the infrastructure services that support holding and using USDC,” Binance said.

Richard Teng, Co-Chief Executive Officer of Binance, said the investment reflects the company’s long-term confidence in Circle and its digital asset infrastructure.

“Circle has earned its place as one of the most credible issuers in the world spanning USDC, Arc and the infrastructure reshaping how value moves across borders. Our $100 million investment and five-year commitment represent long-duration conviction,” Teng said.

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Jeremy Allaire, Co-founder, Chairman and CEO of Circle, said the partnership could help expand access to digital dollars and support savings, investment and other digital asset use cases across emerging markets.

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The companies said the expanded collaboration will focus on leveraging USDC to reach individuals and businesses and support the broader use of digital currencies globally.