> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.fundwork.app/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Why Fundwork Uses USDC for All Marketplace Payments

> Fundwork pays in USDC — a regulated, USD-pegged stablecoin — so you always know exactly what you're earning without worrying about price volatility.

Fundwork uses USDC as its single payment currency so that clients and talent can focus on the work, not on exchange rates or price swings. Here's why USDC is the right fit.

## What USDC Is

USDC is a regulated stablecoin issued by Circle, pegged 1:1 to the US dollar. Each USDC is backed by cash and short-duration US Treasuries held in segregated accounts, and Circle publishes regular attestations of those reserves. Because USDC is an ERC-20 token, it moves natively on Base alongside the rest of the Fundwork payment flow.

## Why It Works for Marketplace Payments

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Predictable value" icon="chart-line">
    1 USDC equals 1 USD. The amount a client approves is exactly what the talent receives — no volatility, no surprises at settlement.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Instant settlement" icon="bolt">
    USDC transfers on Base confirm in seconds. There's no waiting for bank wires, ACH delays, or payment processor holds.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Widely accepted" icon="globe">
    USDC is one of the most widely supported digital dollar assets across exchanges, wallets, and DeFi platforms, making it straightforward to use or convert after you receive it.
  </Card>

  <Card title="On-chain transparency" icon="magnifying-glass">
    Every USDC transfer is recorded on Base and carries a public transaction hash. Both parties can verify the exact amount and timing independently.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

<Note>
  Fundwork does not convert, hold, or intermediary your USDC beyond what is required to execute the approved payment. Funds go directly to the talent's configured payout address on Base.
</Note>