Aster, a perpetual-markets DEX, integrated Arc on September 16, 2026, enabling users to deposit and withdraw USDC while trading perpetual markets. The launch was active from day one rather than staged, and Arc publicly acknowledged the integration. Arc describes itself as an open, EVM-compatible Layer 1 with stablecoins, including USDC, serving as native gas. Aster says it offers multichain support, deep liquidity and high leverage. The announcement did not disclose deposit-address formats, fees, limits, processing times, jurisdictional availability or the technical custody and settlement arrangement. USDC had approximately $73.60 billion in market capitalization and about $18.92 billion in 24-hour trading volume in the research snapshot. The next key development is whether Aster publishes detailed Arc routing and fee documentation, while traders and builders can monitor volume, throughput and latency on the network.