Circle’s Bold Move: Acquires Axelar Team to Lead Blockchain Interoperability

Circle acquires Interop Labs, the team behind Axelar Network, to boost blockchain interoperability and cross-chain infrastructure. The deal excludes Axelar’s network and tokens, which remain independent.

Circle has announced the acquisition of Interop Labs, the core development team behind the Axelar Network, along with its proprietary technology. The deal, expected to close by early 2026, aims to strengthen Circle’s position in blockchain interoperability and enhance its cross-chain infrastructure, particularly for its USDC stablecoin and enterprise-grade blockchain projects like Arc and CCTP. The acquisition includes only Interop Labs’ team and proprietary assets, while Axelar’s network, foundation, and token operations will remain independent and community-governed. Open-source intellectual property will be transitioned to Common Prefix, ensuring ongoing support for Axelar’s open-source initiatives. Circle’s move is intended to accelerate the development of seamless, scalable cross-chain communication, making digital assets more accessible and functional across multiple blockchains. The integration of Interop Labs’ expertise is expected to improve user experience, empower developers, and expand the reach of Circle’s products, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and leadership in the digital finance sector.