USDt, Tether’s stablecoin pegged to the US Dollar, has emerged as a pivotal tool for extending US Dollar hegemony across emerging markets, according to Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino. In a statement, Ardoino highlighted how USDt’s widespread adoption is transforming financial landscapes in developing countries, positioning Tether as a key player in global financial inclusion while reinforcing the US Dollar’s influence worldwide.
Over the past decade, Tether has built the most extensive physical and digital distribution network for stablecoin. From thousands of kiosks in Africa and South America to digital remittance platforms and institutional payment backbones, USDt’s accessibility has been strategically expanded to reach underserved communities. Ardoino emphasized that Tether’s teams and portfolio companies are actively working on the ground in numerous developing countries, fostering trust, education, and broader utilization of USDt.
This strategic distribution has contributed to USDt supporting over 400 million people globally, with 35 million new wallets added every quarter, primarily in developing nations. This growth is not only expanding financial access but also bolstering the US Dollar’s global reach.
USD Strength, Competitor Challenges, Financial Inclusion
Tether’s growth directly contributes to the US economy by strengthening the US Dollar’s presence in emerging markets. Additionally, Tether holds more than $115 billion in US Treasuries, making it the 18th largest holder of US debt. This significant stake underscores Tether’s pivotal role in the global financial system, linking digital finance with traditional monetary assets.
Ardoino accused competitors of attempting to “kill Tether” through lawfare rather than building better products or expanding distribution networks. He claimed that these competitors are actively seeking to undermine Tether’s market position by leveraging political influence and legal strategies. Ardoino suggested that this anti-competitive behavior poses a threat to financial inclusion in emerging markets, as it could potentially limit access to USDt, which serves as a vital bridge to the US Dollar for millions.
Despite facing aggressive competition, Ardoino affirmed Tether’s commitment to protecting its user base and continuing its mission of financial inclusion. Tether aims to empower communities left behind by traditional financial systems by ensuring continued access to USDt. Ardoino vowed that Tether would not stand still or allow these attacks to succeed, emphasizing the company’s dedication to safeguarding the interests of its users worldwide.
Tether’s role as a financial bridge for emerging markets underscores its strategic importance in the global economy. With more than 400 million users and continued quarterly growth, Tether’s USDt is cementing its position as a crucial player in digital finance, shaping the future of global currency distribution while navigating a highly competitive and politically charged landscape.
