Conduit’s $36 million raise aims to challenge SWIFT by leveraging stablecoins for faster, cheaper international transfers. The platform uses blockchain to settle transactions in minutes versus days, targeting a $150 trillion cross-border payment market. Investors back this approach as stablecoin transaction volumes surged 400% YoY, reaching $7 trillion in Q1 2025.
The funding will expand infrastructure for USD-backed stablecoins across corridors like US-Asia and Europe-Africa. Conduit’s API-first strategy targets banks and fintechs seeking modern payment rails, potentially reducing FX costs by 60% according to pilot data. This challenges traditional correspondents but faces regulatory hurdles regarding anti-money laundering compliance.
Success depends on partnerships with licensed custodians and compliance tech investments. If scalable, Conduit could pressure SWIFT to accelerate its CBDC initiatives. The raise reflects VC confidence in stablecoins’ role in global finance, with the sector attracting $2.1 billion in 2025 YTD investments.
