Core Insights - Circle is exploring a controversial new mechanism to make its USDC token transactions reversible under specific circumstances, particularly in cases of fraud or hacking, while still maintaining the finality of settlement [2][6] - The initiative reflects a growing recognition within the industry that blockchain must adapt to mainstream financial requirements, despite the inherent contradiction between transaction finality and reversibility [2][6] Group 1: Mechanism and Implementation - The proposed reversible transaction mechanism will not directly modify confirmed blockchain transactions but will introduce a "counter-payment" protocol layer on a new chain called Arc, allowing parties to initiate refunds or rollbacks through mutual agreement in cases of fraud or disputes [3][4] - Arc blockchain utilizes the Malachite consensus engine, achieving transaction confirmation in 350 milliseconds and supporting 10,000 transactions per second, while also planning to incorporate a privacy layer to balance transparency and privacy [4] Group 2: Market Context and Demand - The demand for consumer protection has increased as banks and credit card companies explore stablecoin-based cross-border payments, prompting Circle's controversial yet necessary exploration of reversible transactions [2][6] - USDC's circulation increased by 90% year-over-year in Q2, reaching $61.3 billion, with a report indicating its supply has surpassed $72.5 billion, reflecting strong market demand [5][6] Group 3: Competitive Landscape - If USDC successfully implements reversible transactions, it may enhance its competitive advantage in the stablecoin market, attracting institutional investors and financial institutions seeking refund guarantees for cross-border payments [6] - The introduction of reversible transactions could push the stablecoin market towards a more compliant, secure, and institution-friendly direction, compelling competitors to find a new balance between security and decentralization [6]