Circle Lifts USDC Ban on Legal Firearm Purchases, Aligning with GENIUS Act

Circle Internet Group has updated its USDC terms to permit legal firearm transactions, reversing a prior blanket prohibition and aligning with the GENIUS Act’s federal framework for dollar-backed stablecoins.

Policy Reversal: From Ban to Compliance-Focused Approach

Circle’s previous USDC terms barred all weapon purchases, drawing criticism from the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) for “financial discrimination” against lawful gun merchants and owners. The updated policy now prohibits only transactions “in contravention of applicable laws,” allowing compliant firearm sales. This shift reflects industry advocacy and regulatory clarity from the GENIUS Act, which establishes a federal framework for stablecoins, encouraging adoption while combating discriminatory practices in payments.

• Old Policy: Total ban on weapons.
• New Policy: Legal compliance only.
• Trigger: NSSF pressure and GENIUS Act.

Implications for Stablecoins and Payments

The change addresses growing scrutiny of payment platforms restricting access for constitutional rights-protected businesses. With USDC’s $50 billion+ circulation, this opens doors for lawful gun retailers in e-commerce and remittances, while maintaining KYC/AML standards. It signals stablecoins’ maturation under GENIUS, potentially unlocking $100 billion in new use cases by 2026, from retail to B2B.

2025 USDC Adoption Prediction: $100B-$150B Circulation

USDC adoption prediction for 2025 targets $100B-$150B circulation, with 100% growth on policy wins. Bull catalysts: GENIUS clarity; bear risks: Regulatory shifts testing $80B support.

For users, how to use USDC via compliant platforms ensures entry. USDC payment guide and stablecoin compliance provide resources.

In summary, Circle’s USDC firearm policy lift under GENIUS Act boosts adoption, fueling $100B-$150B 2025 circulation in payments’ evolution.