Cloudflare announced on September 25, 2025, that it is preparing to release NET Dollar, a U.S. dollar–backed stablecoin aimed at powering instant, programmable payments for AI agents, developers, and creators. The initiative seeks to support a new type of internet economy where autonomous software handles transactions with minimal human input.
Building a Stablecoin for the Agentic Web
NET Dollar is positioned as a core tool for an “agentic web” — a digital environment where bots book flights, order goods, or negotiate services on behalf of users. Cloudflare states that the stablecoin will be fully backed by U.S. dollar reserves, ensuring trust and stability. It is being designed for:
- Global interoperability
- Real-time settlement
- Programmable payment mechanics
The company believes online economics will shift away from ads and traditional bank transfers toward microtransactions, pay-per-use models, and fractional payments. NET Dollar is also set to work with emerging standards such as the Agent Payments Protocol and Cloudflare’s “x402” initiative, which both focus on simplifying payments across digital ecosystems. While no firm launch date was shared, Cloudflare confirmed the stablecoin will be available soon.
Web3 Payments and Stablecoin Momentum
The timing of this move highlights the growing momentum in digital payments. Just recently, Google introduced an open-source AI payments protocol developed with Coinbase that relies on stablecoins. Meanwhile, established players like USDC and USDT continue to dominate the market, though new entrants see opportunities in specialized applications.
Institutional analysts have also raised their forecasts for stablecoin adoption. For example, Citigroup projects a sharp increase in issuance by 2030, pointing to demand from both retail and institutional users. Still, the sector faces hurdles, including regulation, technical infrastructure, and the need for transparent reserve audits.
If successful, NET Dollar could transform Cloudflare from a company known mainly for web performance and security into a central player in AI-driven financial infrastructure. The firm’s integration into existing web networks gives it a strategic advantage, but adoption will depend on:
- Regulatory approval and clarity
- Transparent proof-of-reserves
- Cross-border compliance
- Developer trust and adoption over incumbents
The crypto community will be watching closely for technical details, including blockchain integration, smart contract design, and settlement methods. NET Dollar could pave the way for a future where AI agents handle everyday commerce — fundamentally changing how money flows online.
