The value of a stablecoin in relation to the asset or currency it is tied to is maintained through the application of stablecoin stability mechanisms. Stablecoins employ a variety of stability techniques viz:
- Collateralization: Stablecoins most frequently employ this technique. This approach backs the stablecoin with a reserve of a particular asset, such gold or the US dollar. The stablecoin’s value is then preserved using the value of the reserve. For instance, additional reserves are added to the system to raise the stablecoin’s value if it drops below the specified value.
- Seigniorage Shares: To sustain the value of the stablecoin, this approach combines smart contracts and algorithms. To maintain a steady price, the programme automatically modifies the money supply. Algorithmic stablecoins like MakerDAO use this method.
- Over-collateralization: It is a technique utilised by stablecoins that use cryptocurrency as collateral, in which the stablecoin is backed by a reserve of a more volatile cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin. The stablecoin’s value is then preserved using the value of the reserve. The collateral is over-collateralized, which means that it is worth more than the stablecoin, in order to guarantee that the stablecoin’s value is preserved.
- Central Bank Backing: The central bank of a nation issues a digital currency and backs it with the equal value of the nation’s fiat currency. This process is utilised by central bank digital currencies (CBDC).
Depending on the specific implementation and how well it is carried out, these stability measures may or may not be effective. For instance, a stablecoin that is completely collateralized and publicly auditable is probably going to be more useful than one that isn’t. The stability measures that rely on algorithms and smart contracts can also be more complicated and call for greater faith in the technology and the people who developed it.
The value of a stablecoin cannot always be guaranteed to remain stable, even the best stability methods being used. Factors such as market circumstances, external events, and changes in the underlying assets can all have an impact on the value of a stablecoin. Like any investment, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research and due diligence before investing in a stablecoin.