So buying a stablecoin on a local exchange and then using it as a proxy for fiat on the exchange you really want to use makes the trading process a whole lot faster.
That's right, it really makes sense to use this tactic to save time, and when your money is literally trapped for 3-5 days (or even longer) you realize you have to look for an alternative.
Why didn't anyone just say that? I get the feeling some members here are just shitposting about stablecoins or that there's more to the story as to why they're so useful. I offered merits to anyone who could explain to me what their major advantage is, and so far only you, Lucius, have given me some insight into my question. The offer of merits still stands if someone can provide me with a dumbed-down explanation of why coins like USDT protect you from volatility (though your answer might be the best one).
As for me, you were pretty clear with your question so I can't say why no one offered an answer. I will try to answer the second question when it comes to protecting against volatility.
If you have $100 and 100 USDT on a crypto exchange, the difference between these two deposits is that you can transfer stablecoin very quickly and cheaply - in terms of volatility, there is no difference, because USDT is pegged with USD - except that such stablecoin can be frozen even when stored in a non-custodial wallet.
The way to protect yourself from volatility with the help of stablecoins is that you can sell your BTC for USDT if you think its price will fall - and that is something that a lot of people practice and I have often read such
comments on the forum. Of course, a similar thing is achieved if you sell crypto for fiat, but here we return to the fact that people want something that allows them to dispose of their funds very efficiently and quickly - and this is exactly the reason why stablecoins have become very popular.