USDC issuer Circle to acquire nearly 1,000 IBM blockchain patents

cointelegraphPublished on 2026-07-27Last updated on 2026-07-27

Abstract

Circle, the issuer of the USDC stablecoin, has announced its acquisition of IBM's extensive blockchain patent portfolio. The deal involves over 680 patent families and nearly 1,000 issued patents globally, a move that Circle states establishes it as the leading holder of blockchain patents in the United States. This intellectual property is intended to bolster Circle's foundation for building an internet-based financial system. While financial terms were not disclosed, Circle's stock price saw an increase following the announcement. IBM's blockchain efforts have historically focused on supply chain applications, though its patent filings in the area have slowed in recent years after a peak period in 2018-2019. Circle's leadership emphasized that acquiring IBM's pioneering innovations will enhance its ability to develop the infrastructure for global, internet-native finance.

Circle will acquire IBM’s blockchain patent portfolio, the USDC (USDC) issuer said on Monday.

No financial details for the transaction were disclosed in Circle’s announcement. CRCL stock price was up more than 2% in premarket activity on Monday following the announcement, according to Yahoo Finance data.

The portfolio comprises more than 680 patent families and nearly 1,000 issued patents worldwide. Circle said the acquisition positions it as the leader in blockchain patent holdings in the United States, with an intellectual property position that directly supports the fintech’s foundation for building the internet financial system.

IBM’s blockchain focus has leaned heavily into supply chain applications, which seek to increase transparency in tracking products across numerous intermediaries. In recent years, it has slowed its patent filings from peak years 2018-2019, when more than 500 blockchain-related patents were filed, research firm GreyB said.

“IBM has been a pioneer in technological innovation, and this acquisition expands Circle’s ability to advance the infrastructure that powers global, internet-native finance,” said Sarah Wilson, general counsel and corporate secretary at Circle.

Related Questions

QWhat is Circle acquiring from IBM and what does it comprise?

ACircle is acquiring IBM's entire blockchain patent portfolio, which comprises more than 680 patent families and nearly 1,000 issued patents worldwide.

QHow did the announcement affect Circle's stock (CRCL) price?

AFollowing the announcement, Circle's stock (CRCL) price was up more than 2% in premarket activity on Monday.

QAccording to Circle, what does this acquisition make the company in the US blockchain patent landscape?

ACircle stated that the acquisition positions it as the leader in blockchain patent holdings in the United States.

QWhat was a major focus area for IBM's blockchain patents, according to the article?

AIBM's blockchain focus leaned heavily into supply chain applications, aiming to increase transparency in tracking products across numerous intermediaries.

QWhich company official commented on the acquisition, and what did they say about IBM and Circle's future?

ASarah Wilson, general counsel and corporate secretary at Circle, commented. She said IBM has been a pioneer in technological innovation, and this acquisition expands Circle's ability to advance the infrastructure for global, internet-native finance.

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