Circle Acquires IBM Blockchain Patent Estate, Becomes Largest Holder in US
USDC issuer Circle has acquired nearly 1,000 blockchain-related patents from IBM, as reported by Decrypt.
Circle, the issuer of the USDC stablecoin, has purchased almost 1,000 blockchain patents from IBM, making it the largest holder of such patents in the United States, as reported by Decrypt. This acquisition marks a significant expansion of Circle's intellectual property portfolio in the blockchain space.
Despite this patent acquisition, IBM reportedly continues to support a competitor to USDC. The transaction involved a substantial portion of IBM's blockchain patent estate, transferring a considerable intellectual property advantage to Circle.
The deal highlights a strategic move by Circle to consolidate its position within the blockchain and stablecoin ecosystem through intellectual property ownership. The patents cover various aspects of blockchain technology, potentially strengthening Circle's future development and market standing.
Original reporting
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