TD Markets and Shift Markets Launch ZARC Coin on Stellar: A Rand-Pegged Stablecoin for Africa
ZARC Coin Debut: A 1:1 Rand Stablecoin Goes Live on Stellar in August 2025
TD Markets Exchange (TDME), a prominent South African brokerage firm, has launched ZARC Coin, a digital asset pegged 1:1 to the South African Rand, on the Stellar ($XLM) network. Announced on August 16, 2025, this collaboration with Shift Markets combines forex expertise and crypto infrastructure for issuance and distribution. For crypto newcomers, ZARC is a stablecoin that holds steady value like the Rand, enabling fast, low-cost transactions without volatility. As Amar Ramith, TDME’s CEO, stated, “Stellar’s ecosystem and reach across 170+ countries make it ideal for ZARC.” With yields up to 7.5% APY for holders, it’s designed for remittances and payments in emerging markets. This marks a significant step for African digital finance.
How ZARC Works: Seamless Rand Digital Asset on Stellar
ZARC leverages Stellar’s efficient blockchain for instant settlements. Transactions process in 5 seconds for fractions of a cent. No more days-long wires or 6-7% fees. Specifically, users convert fiat to ZARC via local on/off ramps. Merchants accept it for payroll or sales. Shift Markets’ platform adds tools for liquidity and compliance. For example, a migrant in the UK sends ZAR equivalent to family in Johannesburg. It arrives instantly. Holders earn 7.5% APY on balances. As Stellar’s network supports 20+ digital assets, ZARC integrates with USDC for hybrid flows. Thus, it’s practical for everyday use. Businesses manage treasury in Rand-pegged tokens.
Why Stellar? Reliability for African Markets
Stellar was chosen for its track record. It has powered billions of operations over a decade. The network removes barriers in global finance. It suits enterprises, NGOs, and consumers. In Africa, where traditional infrastructure falls short, ZARC fills the gap. For instance, it aids migrants securing cash or handling remittances. As Ramith added, “Stellar’s broad ecosystem enables cheap, fast, secure payments.” Additionally, it offers merchant tooling. This includes payroll and acceptance features. Custom controls ensure user admin and liquidity. Therefore, ZARC positions as a bridge. It links Rand users to international crypto markets.
The Impact: Boosting Adoption and Financial Inclusion in Africa
This launch catalyzes African crypto growth. South Africa’s Rand is key for the continent. ZARC could inspire similar projects. It influences regulations. As Coin Push notes, it contributes to financial digitalization. Early metrics? 10,000+ wallets activated in week one. Volumes hit $5M daily. For $XLM holders, demand rises. More stablecoins mean network fees in Lumens. XLM traded at $0.3851 in August 2025. Up 3%. Platforms like Lumexo simplify $XLM trades. Low fees apply. Hence, even retail users join. Remittances become fairer.
Stellar’s African Horizon: From Stablecoins to Scale
In short, ZARC on Stellar isn’t a pilot. It’s progress. TD Markets and Shift Markets lead. African markets gain reliable Rand assets. Adoption follows. As Q4 2025 ramps up, watch volumes climb. Blockchain is here. It’s for Africa.