Cryptocurrency exchange Luno has announced the launch of two new trading pairs, ZARU/USDT and ZARU/USDC, creating a direct on-chain link between a rand-backed stablecoin and major US dollar stablecoins. This strategic move is designed to significantly enhance trading efficiency and reduce friction for its customers. The new pairs are now available to traders in key African markets, including South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, and Uganda.
Streamlining Stablecoin Trading in Africa
Previously, traders seeking to move between US dollar stablecoins and rand exposure had to convert their assets off-chain into fiat ZAR. Luno's new pairs eliminate this cumbersome step by keeping all transactions within the blockchain ecosystem. This innovation provides a more seamless and integrated experience for users managing digital assets on the platform.
The primary benefit for traders is the ability to gain instant, 24/7 exposure to a rand-denominated asset directly from their dollar stablecoin holdings. This development removes delays and complexities associated with traditional banking channels. It represents a significant upgrade to the trading infrastructure available to Luno's growing African user base.
A Closer Look at the New Pairs
The new listings connect ZARU, the first institutional-grade stablecoin backed by the South African rand, with Tether (USDT) and USD Coin (USDC). These are two of the world's most liquid and widely adopted stablecoins pegged to the US dollar. This direct bridge is a notable advancement for the regional digital asset landscape.
By enabling direct swaps, Luno simplifies portfolio management for traders looking to hedge against currency fluctuations or speculate on price movements. The platform ensures professionally managed, on-chain liquidity through its institutional market maker. This fosters a more efficient and reliable trading environment for all participants involved in these markets.
Incentivizing Early Adoption with Fee Discounts
To stimulate activity and build liquidity, Luno has introduced a 90-day promotional period featuring significantly discounted trading fees. This special offer is scheduled to conclude on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, after which standard fees will apply. The initiative provides a valuable window for traders to experience the new pairs at a reduced cost.
The fee structure is tiered, rewarding users based on their rolling 30-day trading volume. During the promotion, taker fees are set at a competitive 0.05% across most tiers. Furthermore, market makers, who provide liquidity to the order book, will receive a rebate for their trades.
This negative maker fee, starting at -0.01%, effectively pays liquidity providers to participate, a strategy designed to ensure a robust market from the outset. This structure benefits high-volume traders and helps establish deep order books for the new pairs. For larger transactions, Luno continues to offer its over-the-counter desk for private, off-exchange execution.
Luno's introduction of the ZARU/USDT and ZARU/USDC pairs marks a pivotal enhancement of its services for the African continent. By creating a direct, on-chain pathway between rand and dollar stablecoins, the exchange is improving both accessibility and market efficiency. This strategic initiative is poised to strengthen the regional digital asset ecosystem and foster greater stablecoin adoption.