Interactive Brokers Opens 24/7 USDC Rails on Solana and Base; RLUSD Next

Interactive Brokers (IBKR) has effectively ended banking hours for its eligible clients, launching 24/7 account funding via USD Coin (USDC) on Solana, Base, and Ethereum. The integration, powered by infrastructure provider Zero Hash, allows traders to instantly convert stablecoins into USD brokerage capital, bypassing the multi-day settlement delays typical of traditional wire transfers.

The Mechanics of Settlement

Unlike direct crypto custody, this system functions as a real-time liquidity bridge. Clients transfer USDC from their external wallets to a Zero Hash address; the funds are automatically converted to USD and credited to the brokerage account. The friction is minimal but present: Zero Hash levies a 0.30% conversion fee (minimum $1), though Interactive Brokers itself charges nothing.

The choice of networks is strategic. By supporting Solana and Base, IBKR allows for deposits that settle in seconds for pennies, a stark contrast to the $25+ fees and T+2 delays of SWIFT or ACH networks. Solana (SOL), currently trading around $142, continues to solidify its status as a preferred rail for institutional payment flows.

Why This Matters

This integration directly addresses the liquidity fragmentation between crypto markets (which never close) and equity markets (which operate on banking schedules). Traders facing margin calls on weekends or spotting arbitrage opportunities during Asian trading hours can now inject capital instantly without waiting for Monday morning bank wires.

Stablecoin funding provides international investors with the speed and flexibility required in today's markets. Clients can transfer funds and begin trading within minutes. Milan Galik, CEO of Interactive Brokers

Expansion Roadmap

The brokerage confirmed this is merely the first phase. Support for Ripple’s RLUSD and PayPal’s PYUSD is scheduled for integration as early as next week. The inclusion of RLUSD is particularly notable, signaling institutional confidence in Ripple’s enterprise-grade stablecoin before it has even achieved widespread retail dominance.