X, the social media platform owned by Elon Musk, is reportedly holding discussions to enable payments to content creators using stablecoins such as Circle’s USDC, according to information from an individual familiar with the conversations. This person is also engaged with other platforms experimenting with stablecoin payments for creators.
X transitions to new creator rewards program
This development emerges in the same month that X overhauled its payment system for creators. On August 7, the company closed new sign-ups for its original Creator Revenue Sharing program and will shut down that initiative completely on September 7. The last payments under the old system will be distributed around September 11.
Existing creators will soon have the opportunity to apply to X’s new Original Content Rewards Program, which begins accepting applications on September 8. The company describes this initiative as a way to support creators who produce unique, high-quality content that showcases individual voice, expertise, or creativity.
Under the updated structure, X calculates rewards based on qualified impressions, defined as unique views from Premium users viewing at least half of a creator’s post in their Home Timeline. Eligible creators must hold an X Premium subscription, maintain at least 500 verified followers, and achieve 500,000 verified Home Timeline impressions within 90 days. Payouts are set to occur every two weeks, with a minimum withdrawal threshold of $30.
ETH
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AAPLStablecoins offer advantages for international payments
Traditional payment networks often struggle to efficiently process small, frequent transfers across numerous countries. Stablecoins, a class of digital assets pegged to national currencies like the US dollar, represent a $310 billion market and can typically be settled in minutes. This speed and flexibility could prove useful for creators, especially those who lack US bank accounts.
X Money, the platform’s current financial service for US Premium subscribers, was rolled out this year with offerings such as a Visa debit card, peer-to-peer transfers, and bill payment capabilities. However, this feature has not yet integrated cryptocurrency functionality.
SpaceX, another enterprise of Elon Musk, has already accepted Starlink subscription payments in stablecoins within emerging markets, as noted by venture capitalist Chamath Palihapitiya.
Mini dictionary: USDC, short for USD Coin, is a digital stablecoin issued by Circle and backed 1:1 by the US dollar. It is widely used for fast, cross-border payments and trading on cryptocurrency platforms.
X’s new creator payment program sets strict eligibility criteria, including holding a Premium subscription, reaching 500 verified followers, and generating 500,000 Home Timeline impressions within 90 days. Payments will be processed every two weeks once a minimum $30 threshold is met.
Comparison of X’s creator reward programs
| Program | Enrollment Period | Payout Frequency | Payout Threshold | Eligibility Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Creator Revenue Sharing | Closed new sign-ups Aug. 7; ends Sept. 7 | Final payout around Sept. 11 | Varies | Legacy requirements |
| Original Content Rewards Program | Applications open Sept. 8 | Every 2 weeks | $30 | X Premium, 500 verified followers, 500,000 verified impressions in 90 days |
Stablecoin payments could help creators around the world receive their rewards quickly, bypassing some of the limitations of traditional banking systems.
