KuCoin has integrated support for Arc, enabling eligible users to transfer USDC directly between the cryptocurrency exchange and Arc's newly launched public Layer 1 mainnet. The move gives users another route into the blockchain's ecosystem as Arc begins its public rollout.

The integration enables direct USDC deposits and withdrawals between KuCoin and Arc, potentially reducing the need for users to move funds through another blockchain before accessing the new network.

KuCoin announced the integration on Sept. 16, coinciding with Arc's public mainnet launch. The exchange did not disclose transfer fees, withdrawal limits, or the jurisdictions where Arc support will be available.

The integration follows Arc's earlier private mainnet phase, during which more than 100 institutional and ecosystem participants were involved in developing and testing the network. Arc is closely associated with Circle, the issuer of USDC, and is being developed as infrastructure for payments, tokenized assets, foreign exchange, treasury operations, and programmable financial applications.

Direct Exchange Access Reduces Entry Friction

For users holding USDC on a centralized exchange, direct network support can simplify access to a new blockchain. Without such an integration, users may need to withdraw USDC through another supported network before using a bridge or cross-chain service to move the funds to Arc.

KuCoin's integration can shorten that process for eligible customers, although actual availability will depend on the exchange's supported regions and account requirements.

The development also adds another distribution channel as Arc seeks to establish itself as financial infrastructure rather than simply another network for cryptocurrency trading.

KuCoin Chief Executive BC Wong indicated that reliable access to blockchain infrastructure would become increasingly important as financial activity moves on-chain. The company's position was that infrastructure needs to remain accessible to both individual users and institutional participants.

KuCoin is not the only exchange or infrastructure provider supporting Arc. Circle has previously identified several exchanges, wallets, custodians, and infrastructure companies preparing integrations with the network, creating a broader ecosystem around the mainnet.

USDC Serves as Arc's Native Gas Asset

Arc is a Layer 1 blockchain — a base network that processes and finalizes its own transactions rather than running on top of another chain — built around stablecoin-based financial activity. A distinguishing feature is its use of USDC as the native gas asset, which allows users to pay transaction fees in the same stablecoin used for transactions.

For exchange users, the gas design has a practical consequence: USDC is the asset required to cover Arc's transaction costs, so direct deposits from KuCoin deliver not only transferable funds but also what is needed to pay for on-chain activity.

The network is designed to provide fast, predictable settlement for stablecoin payments, foreign exchange, and capital-markets applications, with deterministic sub-second finality and dollar-denominated transaction costs. That design could be relevant to businesses and financial institutions that require predictable transaction expenses and rapid settlement. Arc also aims to support applications involving tokenized assets, decentralized finance, and other programmable financial services.

Arc's institutional focus is reflected in its validator structure. Circle has identified companies including BlackRock, DTCC, Galaxy, Global Payments, Intercontinental Exchange, Mastercard, MoneyGram, SBI Group, Standard Chartered, Sumitomo Corporation, and Visa as members of its founding validator cohort. More than 100 companies and ecosystem participants had been working with Arc before its public mainnet launch, according to Circle.

Arc @arc Mainnet launches Wednesday, September 16th! We're excited to support Arc as it goes live. Stay tuned for more updates from us soon #Arc #Mainnet pic.twitter.com/Avn9lJ3lnN

— KuCoin (@kucoincom) September 15, 2026

Arc Begins Public Phase With Curated Validators

Although Arc is being presented as an open Layer 1 network for applications and users, its initial consensus infrastructure uses a permissioned validator set. Participation in validation is introduced through a curated institutional model rather than immediately allowing unrestricted participation.

This distinction could be important for users and developers evaluating the network, as access to applications does not necessarily mean that anyone can immediately take part in Arc's consensus process.

Now live: Kraken supports Arc US deposits and withdrawals on Arc, live from day one. Arc is an EVM compatible Layer 1 with stablecoins as gas, starting with USDC. Deposit USDC: pic.twitter.com/9Ug8TEuVaJ

— Kraken Listings (@krakenlistings) September 16, 2026

Kraken's announcement indicates that another major exchange offered direct USDC deposits and withdrawals from launch day, meaning eligible users had more than one centralized route into the network at the outset.

The network also carries risks associated with blockchain infrastructure, including smart-contract vulnerabilities, service interruptions, and irreversible transactions. The disclosure accompanying the integration also noted that Arc has not been reviewed or approved by the New York State Department of Financial Services or another regulator.

Exchange Integration Puts Arc to a Practical Test

Arc's public mainnet launch shifts the project from infrastructure development toward broader real-world use. KuCoin's support provides a direct channel through which eligible users can bring USDC into the network and withdraw it back to the exchange.

The integration gives Arc an additional liquidity and distribution pathway at launch, while allowing users to access the network without necessarily relying on separate bridging infrastructure.

The longer-term significance will depend on whether exchange access translates into sustained activity across payments, tokenized assets, decentralized finance, and other financial applications. For Arc, the next stage will therefore involve demonstrating that its institutional partnerships and technical architecture can attract meaningful users, liquidity, and economic activity as the network moves into public operation.