Binance invests $100 million in Circle stake as part of five‑year USDC promotion deal

Binance has completed a $100 million private‑placement purchase of Circle shares, acquiring 1.24 million Class A shares at $80.84 each. The transaction closed on September 17, according to an SEC filing.

Deal structure and restrictions

Under the agreement, Binance cannot sell, transfer or hedge the shares for the earlier of two years or a termination of the commercial arrangement, though it retains voting rights. The shares were sold in an unregistered private placement, limiting resale unless a registration or exemption is obtained.

Expanded USDC partnership

Simultaneously, Circle and Binance expanded their existing USDC collaboration into a five‑year program. Circle will pay Binance a monthly incentive fee calculated as a percentage of USDC held through Circle’s Modular Smart Contract Wallet service. In return, Binance will promote USDC on its exchange platform.

Termination provisions

Either party may end the partnership early if specified events occur, though the exact termination triggers have not been disclosed.

Background

The new arrangement replaces earlier USDC deals between the companies dated November 2024 and August 2025.