In the Builder Series, Ruben Galindo discusses Airtm’s role in financial inclusion and cross-border payments using USDC, focusing on the needs of countries with volatile currencies such as Venezuela and Argentina. Airtm helps users swap local currencies for stable US dollars, providing a critical lifeline in regions with economic instability. Ruben shares insights on the challenges faced by Airtm, including government pushback, and how their partnership with Circle helped streamline complex payment flows like aid distribution during the COVID pandemic. Ruben emphasizes the inefficiencies in traditional payment systems and the demand for stable currencies in the global South. This initiative aligns with Stellar’s mission of enabling seamless financial transactions and fostering economic independence across borders.