Circle, the issuer of the USDC stablecoin, is contemplating an IPO but might opt for a potential sale to either Coinbase Global or Ripple.
Sources suggest that Circle is aiming for a $5 billion valuation, the same as its intended IPO, and would swiftly sell to Coinbase if a genuine offer is made.
Ripple has expressed interest in acquiring Circle with a bid between $4-5 billion, while market expert Paul Barron indicates Ripple might have an advantage in acquiring Circle at a potential price tag of $9 to $11 billion.
Coinbase also remains a contender for acquiring Circle, having the financial means with approximately $8 billion in cash as of March 31, 2025, and expressing openness to mergers and acquisitions.