Visa survey reveals growing APAC interest in stablecoin payments by 2031

Many consumers express willingness but lack basic knowledge

Visa conducted a survey of 14,250 consumers across the Asia-Pacific region in late 2026, finding that nearly half are open to using stablecoins for payments by 2031. The study highlights increasing curiosity about digital currency options despite widespread confusion about how they function. Only a small fraction of respondents demonstrated accurate understanding of stablecoin mechanics.

The survey showed 47% of APAC participants said they would consider using stablecoins for everyday transactions within the next five years. However, when tested on fundamental concepts, just 6% could correctly explain how stablecoins maintain their value or differ from other cryptocurrencies. This gap suggests enthusiasm is outpacing financial literacy in the region.

What barriers remain for wider stablecoin adoption?

Despite growing openness, significant hurdles persist including regulatory uncertainty, security concerns, and limited merchant acceptance. Visa noted that education initiatives will be critical to bridge the knowledge gap and build trust. The company emphasized that collaboration between fintech firms, banks, and policymakers could help create safer, more accessible digital payment ecosystems.

What are stablecoins and how do they work? Stablecoins are digital currencies designed to maintain a stable value, usually pegged to a fiat currency like the US dollar or a commodity such as gold. They aim to combine the benefits of cryptocurrency transactions with reduced price volatility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is there growing interest in stablecoins in APAC? Consumers in the region are increasingly seeking faster, lower-cost cross-border payment options and alternatives to traditional banking. Stablecoins offer potential advantages in settlement speed and accessibility, particularly in underbanked areas.

How does Visa plan to support stablecoin integration? Visa is exploring partnerships to enable stablecoin payments on its network, focusing on compliance, security, and user education. The company aims to facilitate safe experimentation while working with regulators to shape responsible frameworks for digital currency use.