Compass Point Initiates Coverage on $CRCL with Neutral Rating, PT $205; cites long-term promise of stablecoins but near-term risks and valuation concerns Analyst comments: "We believe stablecoins can disrupt the financial system as blockchains disintermediate banks and payments networks. CRCL provides pure-play exposure to this disruptive technology as the largest issuer of regulated stablecoins. USDC's leading tech and liquidity provide long-term advantages; however, distribution is also a key driver of stablecoin market share. While Circle’s current distribution partners are large players in crypto, mainstream businesses have much broader connectivity to end users. With CRCL trading at over 100x EBITDA, it's clear investors aren’t valuing the stock on near-term earnings. However, given the threat of new entrants and declining gross margins, we initiate with a Neutral rating and $205 PT." Analyst: Ed Engel