Bank of Italy study finds stablecoin transfers cheaper than global average but lag behind Wise in most corridors.
A Bank of Italy study revealed stablecoin remittance costs varied from 0.3% to 9%, undercutting the global average of 6.65% in most corridors. However, they were cheaper than Wise in only three of seven comparable routes.
Settlement times ranged from under 20 minutes to two business days, depending on local instant payment infrastructure. The study highlighted that stablecoins’ efficiency hinges on domestic payment rails and regulatory frameworks, with prohibitionist regimes failing to suppress demand.
Researchers noted potential for greater cost savings if stablecoins could be used directly for goods and services without reconverting to fiat currency.