Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Recommend" rating for the non-bank financial industry, specifically focusing on Circle and its stablecoin operations [1]. Core Insights - The report provides a comprehensive analysis of Circle, the issuer of the USDC stablecoin, highlighting its compliance, technology, and ecosystem. It contrasts Circle's operational model with that of Tether, the largest stablecoin issuer, and discusses Circle's competitive advantages and future prospects [5][6]. Summary by Sections Industry Overview - As of July 2025, the non-bank financial sector comprises 71 companies with a total market capitalization of approximately 73,991.69 billion CNY, representing 6.91% of the market [1]. Performance Metrics - The report notes that Circle's USDC has a market share exceeding 20%, while Tether holds over 60% as of Q1 2025. Circle's total revenue and reserve income grew by 16% year-on-year, but net profit declined by 42% due to high operational costs [4][6]. Core Business Model Analysis - Circle's partnership with Coinbase is pivotal for USDC's distribution, with a circulation of 43.9 billion USD and 4.3 million active wallets as of December 2024. The revenue-sharing model between Circle and Coinbase is designed to enhance liquidity and market penetration [9][10]. - BlackRock plays a crucial role in Circle's ecosystem, managing a significant portion of USDC's reserve assets and providing regulatory credibility. This partnership enhances USDC's market trust and stability [11][12][16]. Governance Structure - Circle's governance has evolved through strategic transformations, including a shift from a payment tool to a stablecoin issuer and ecosystem builder. Key milestones include the establishment of the Centre alliance with Coinbase and the successful IPO in June 2025 [22][24][25]. Competitive Landscape - Circle's competitive edge lies in its compliance and transparency compared to Tether. The report emphasizes Circle's focus on regulatory adherence and its robust KYC and AML frameworks, which are critical in the stablecoin market [18][21]. - The report also highlights the potential for operational improvements, particularly in diversifying revenue streams and reducing reliance on a single income source [23][28]. Financial Performance - Circle's financial structure shows a heavy reliance on reserve income, primarily from U.S. Treasury securities. The report indicates that operational costs are a significant burden, with employee compensation constituting a large portion of total expenses [32][37]. Management Team - The report outlines the qualifications and roles of Circle's core management team, emphasizing their experience in technology, finance, and regulatory affairs, which are essential for navigating the complex landscape of digital assets [34][35].