ARC blockchain raises $222M at $3B valuation to launch stablecoin-native Layer 1 for institutional finance in 2026

ARC blockchain secured $222 million in funding at a $3 billion valuation, backed by major investors like BlackRock and a16z, to develop a stablecoin-native Layer 1 blockchain focused on institutional settlement and programmable payments. The network uses USDC as gas for predictable fees, supports sub-second transaction finality, and enables 24/7 stablecoin settlement with advanced FX routing. Testnet activity has surpassed 244 million transactions, signaling strong early adoption. The mainnet beta is planned for summer 2026, aiming to integrate regulated financial markets with on-chain infrastructure for scalable, compliant global finance.