Circle Valuation Drops to $5B from $9B Ahead of IPO

As a seasoned crypto investor who has witnessed the rollercoaster ride that is the digital asset market, I find myself observing Circle Internet Financial’s current situation with a mix of intrigue and cautious optimism. The valuation decline from its 2022 peak to the present $5-$5.25 billion range might seem disheartening at first glance, but it’s important to remember that market conditions can often be unpredictable, especially when a company is preparing for an IPO.


Circle Internet Financial, the entity behind the stablecoin USDC, has experienced a significant drop in its valuation. Currently, trading on the secondary market indicates that the company’s privately-held shares are valued between $5 billion and $5.25 billion.

As a crypto investor, I’ve observed a significant dip from the 2022 high of approximately $9 billion that Circle once held. This descent occurs as Circle gears up for its Initial Public Offering (IPO), a move that could potentially influence the coin’s value further.

Early investors and employees seek liquidity

In the lead-up to Circle’s public debut, employees often get a chance to sell their stock options. Similar to other companies, this opportunity applies here as well. The primary sellers in these secondary market transactions are early-stage investors and the company’s staff.

The company, Circle, has established a rule forbidding trades with a value less than $5 billion. By doing this, they maintain a particular market image prior to going public.

Circle Internet Financial’s private shares are currently estimated to be valued around $5 billion, in anticipation of its upcoming initial public offering (IPO). The company had previously reached a valuation of approximately $9 billion in 2022 when it attempted an Initial Public Offering through a Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC), although the deal ultimately did not go through.

— Aman🔶Sai (@amansaiofficial) July 30, 2024

Market Condition and Investor Sentiment

Investors might find reassurance that they shouldn’t worry too much about the apparent lower valuations due to recent secondary market transactions. This market is experiencing a significant drop, causing numerous investors to urgently seek funding. Such circumstances often result in quicker sales at lower prices.

Despite this, Circle is active and growing in the USDC economy. According to a January report, USDC wallets holding at least $10 increased by 59% to around 2.7 million.

By November 30th, 2023, a grand total of $595 million worth of USDC transactions had been conducted. This significant transaction volume underscores the ongoing usefulness and popularity of USDC, even amidst market limitations. In January, Circle prepares to make its move towards public status by submitting a confidential draft of S-1 documents to the SEC for review.

Circle Makes Strategic Moves Ahead of IPO

Additionally, it’s worth noting that Circle is planning to set up its new main legal entity in the U.S. prior to the Initial Public Offering (IPO). The company has already submitted the necessary documentation to relocate its base from Ireland to the United States. This transition aims to streamline the IPO process and strengthen the company’s ties with its primary market.

Although Circle’s secondary market value seems to be decreasing, the company is still thriving in growth. The planned initial public offering (IPO) and strategic initiatives indicate their commitment to expanding their market presence.

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2024-07-30 23:33