Introduction to Meli Dolar (MUSD) - Stablecoins for and from Latin America

Stablecoins have become one of the most practical bridges between traditional finance and the crypto ecosystem. In Latin America, where inflation and currency devaluation remain pressing challenges, stable digital currencies can provide everyday users with protection and ease of use.

Meli Dolar (MUSD), launched by Mercado Libre’s financial arm, Mercado Pago, is one of the most significant stablecoin initiatives in the region. Pegged to the US dollar, MUSD combines stability with accessibility, offering millions of users a way to safeguard their money and make seamless digital transactions.

What is Meli Dolar (MUSD)?

Meli Dolar is a US dollar-backed stablecoin, designed to hold a 1:1 peg with the dollar. Introduced in Brazil in 2024, it represents Mercado Libre’s step into the crypto-fintech space, providing users with a trusted and regulated digital asset for transactions.

Through the Mercado Pago app, users can buy, sell, and transfer MUSD, as well as use it for online purchases. Backed by liquidity support from Ripio, one of Latin America’s leading crypto platforms, Meli Dolar offers both security and usability for digital payments.

Key Features of Meli Dolar

• Pegged 1:1 with the US dollar to ensure stability
• Integrated directly into Mercado Pago’s mobile app
• Zero fees for trading and purchasing during its launch phase
• Supported by Ripio as the market maker, ensuring liquidity
• Can be used for savings, remittances, payments, and online purchases

These features make MUSD not just a digital token but a comprehensive financial tool for everyday users in Brazil.

Why Meli Dolar Matters for Latin America

Latin American economies are often exposed to high inflation, unstable exchange rates, and reduced purchasing power. By offering a stable, dollar-pegged alternative, Meli Dolar provides a practical solution to protect wealth and increase financial inclusion.

Mercado Libre’s ecosystem—already used by millions—gives MUSD a massive adoption advantage. This move positions the company at the forefront of bridging crypto with real economic needs in Latin America.

Read more: Best Stablecoin Use Cases For Global Payments in 2025: Remittance, Trade, Payroll and E-commerce

Strategic Importance of MUSD Launch in Brazil

Brazil was chosen as the launchpad due to its:

• Large consumer base and growing digital adoption
• Economic challenges, including inflation and real depreciation
• Strong demand for stablecoins to preserve value

From Brazil, Mercado Libre plans to expand MUSD across Latin America, potentially transforming digital payments and savings in markets like Argentina, Mexico, and Chile.

Final Thoughts

Meli Dolar (MUSD) is more than just another stablecoin. It reflects a strategic push by Mercado Libre to democratize access to digital assets in Latin America. With its integration into Mercado Pago, stability through its US dollar peg, and liquidity backed by Ripio, MUSD could become a leading example of how stablecoins can solve real-world financial challenges in emerging markets.

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FAQ

What is Meli Dolar (MUSD)?

Meli Dolar is a US dollar-pegged stablecoin launched by Mercado Libre via Mercado Pago, offering users a stable digital currency for payments, transfers, and savings.

How is Meli Dolar backed?

MUSD is backed 1:1 by US dollars and supported with liquidity operations through Ripio, ensuring stability and trust.

Where can I buy and use MUSD?

Users can buy, sell, and use MUSD directly in the Mercado Pago app for purchases, transfers, and savings.

Why did Mercado Libre launch MUSD in Brazil first?

Brazil’s large market size, high inflation, and need for stable financial solutions made it the ideal starting point for MUSD adoption.

Will Meli Dolar expand to other countries?

Yes, Mercado Libre aims to scale MUSD across Latin America, leveraging its strong presence in countries like Argentina, Mexico, and Chile.