A recent survey conducted by Pantera Capital reveals a noteworthy shift in employment practices within the cryptocurrency sector, with the proportion of professionals receiving salaries in digital assets rising to 9.6%—a threefold increase from the previous year.
This report was compiled from feedback provided by over 1,600 individuals across 77 countries, indicating a growing acceptance of blockchain-based payroll systems and a deepening institutional confidence in stablecoins like USD Coin (USDC) and Tether (USDT), both of which are pegged to the US dollar.
### Stablecoins at the Forefront of Crypto Payrolls
USDC has emerged as the leader in payroll payments, accounting for 63% of all salaries paid in stablecoins. Despite USDT’s position as the most widely traded stablecoin globally, its lesser representation in major payroll platforms—such as Deel, Remote, and Rippling—contributes to this disparity. Collectively, USDC and USDT dominate the payroll landscape, making up over 90% of all reported payments. As of the survey period, the total market capitalisation of stablecoins stood at approximately USD 268.6 billion (AUD 410 billion), according to data from DeFiLlama.
The increasing prevalence of stablecoins in payroll processes aligns with growing sentiment in the crypto industry that these assets are pivotal in bridging traditional finance with the evolving blockchain ecosystem. This trend is beneficial not just for institutional players but also for retail users, solidifying stablecoins’ critical role in the broader crypto economy.
### Shifting Compensation Structures
Alongside the increase in digital asset salaries, Pantera’s findings highlight an evolving approach to compensation, particularly regarding token-based payments. Nearly 88% of such payments now feature four-year vesting schedules, a significant rise from 64% the previous year. This shift suggests an industry-wide commitment to fostering long-term retention and aligning the interests of employees with their employers.
Interestingly, the data also illuminates that practical experience is more highly regarded than formal education within the blockchain sector. Professionals with merely a bachelor’s degree reported an average salary of USD 286,000 (AUD 438,000), overshadowing the earnings of those with master’s or doctoral degrees, who earned an average of USD 214,000 (AUD 327,000) and USD 226,000 (AUD 346,000), respectively.
### Conclusion
The Pantera Capital survey underscores a significant transformation within the cryptocurrency job market, as more professionals opt for salaries in digital assets, particularly stablecoins like USDC. This trend not only reflects a growing trust in blockchain technology and its applications but also indicates a potential shift towards long-term employment strategies in an industry that continues to evolve rapidly. As stablecoins solidify their status as essential components of the crypto economy, businesses are likely to adapt their payroll systems and employee compensation structures to meet the emerging demands of the market.
