> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.usd.ai/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.usd.ai/depositor/usdai.md).

# USDai

USDai is a stablecoin fully backed by PYUSD. Mint on Arbitrum, Ethereum, Base, or Plasma.

**USDai** is the primary synthetic dollar of the USD.AI ecosystem. It's designed to function as a highly liquid, 1:1 USD-pegged asset that serves as the "base layer" for onchain financing.

{% hint style="success" %}
Get started here: [Buy USDai](https://app.usd.ai/buy).
{% endhint %}

While the broader protocol enables the tokenization and financing of AI infrastructure (GPUs), **USDai** itself remains a pure stablecoin. It is built for maximum composability across DeFi protocols, providing a stable medium of exchange without the volatility or hardware-linked risks associated with yield-bearing derivatives.

### Collateral & Backing

USDai is fully backed by highly-liquid treasuries, cash, and other cash-like instruments. Currently USDai is 100% backed by PayPal's PYUSD stablecoin.

{% hint style="info" %}
**USDai** carries no exposure to GPUs or any loans originated by the protocol. It is strictly isolated from GPU depreciation, AI infrastructure credit risk, or hardware performance. These variables are contained exclusively within the **sUSDai** (Staked USDai) token.
{% endhint %}

For the yield-bearing version, see [Learn about sUSDai](/depositor/susdai.md).

**USDai** is backed by a regulated stablecoin (PYUSD), the protocol supply is verifiable on-chain at all times. Minting is programmatically restricted; tokens can only enter circulation when the equivalent PYUSD is locked in the protocol.

### Minting and Redemption

Direct minting and redemption of USDai at the smart contract level is currently permissionless, but AML controls are implemented on the app frontend and in the contract.

#### Market Access & Liquidity

USDai remains a permissionless asset. Any wallet can hold, transfer, stake, and unstake USDai. Secondary market access through DEXs and CEXs, staking for sUSDai on app.usd.ai, Pendle integrations, and bridging are also available.

{% hint style="info" %}
Once you hold USDai, [Stake for sUSDai](https://app.usd.ai/stake).
{% endhint %}

Unlike other stablecoin structures, USDai has no private key minting. Every unit is fully backed 1:1 by PYUSD.


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