Tether has shared plans to launch USAT, a new stablecoin backed by the U.S. dollar and designed to follow U.S. regulations. At the same time, the company named Bo Hines as the future CEO of the project. Announcing both news together shows Tether’s goal to offer a stablecoin that meets U.S. rules and is led by a team based in the country right from the beginning.
The company behind the world’s most popular stablecoin, USDT, has announced plans to introduce a new digital currency called USAT, made specifically for users in the United States. CEO Paolo Ardoino made this statement during a press event in New York. Bo Hines, a former White House official, has been named the CEO of the new project, which is expected to launch before the end of the year.
Tether’s USDT has grown to become the biggest stablecoin in the market. Today, it holds a market value close to $170 billion, according to a leading crypto trading platform.
Despite having fewer than 300 employees, Tether earns billions from returns on its investments, making it one of the most profitable companies per staff member. It also ranks as the 18th largest holder of U.S. Treasury bonds, ahead of countries like Germany, South Korea, and Australia.
Still, the company has faced ongoing criticism, especially for handling the funds that support its stablecoin. It has also come under fire for its token's role in illegal financial activities.
The upcoming USAT launch shows that Tether, based in El Salvador, is trying to strengthen its position in the U.S. market. This move comes as the crypto sector gains support under President Donald Trump’s administration. USAT will offer a regulated path for U.S. banks, fintech firms, and businesses to use Tether’s services, while USDT continues to serve users outside the U.S. The new coin will be powered by Tether’s real-world asset platform, Hadron.
Tether has been working on its U.S. expansion for several months. Paolo Ardoino hinted at the possibility of a launch during a visit to the U.S. earlier this year, not long after President Trump signalled his support for the crypto industry. It was Ardoino's first visit to the country as Tether’s CEO, during which he took part in media engagements to assure regulators and lawmakers that the company was committed to following legal and ethical standards. The announcement of USAT represents a significant milestone in its push to build a more substantial presence in the U.S.
Over the years, Tether has tried to improve its image and move away from past controversies. Critics have often pointed to concerns about the misuse of USDT by bad actors and the company’s lack of clear information about its reserves. Regulatory bodies and law enforcement agencies, including the Department of Justice, have investigated its operations, especially to see if its tokens were involved in illegal activities. Despite these challenges, USDT has grown into the most actively traded stablecoin in the world.
Tether’s move to introduce a U.S.-based stablecoin shows how the company adapts to recent regulatory environment changes. This decision follows the passage of the GENIUS Act in July, a new law that opened the door for banks and startups to create digital tokens. Signed by President Trump, the GENIUS Act stands for “Government Enforcement for National Interest and U.S. Stability.” It sets firm rules for how stablecoins can be issued and managed in the United States.
Under this law, companies must back their stablecoins with highly liquid assets such as U.S. dollars or short-term Treasury securities. They are also required to publish monthly reports on their reserves, avoid misleading promotions, prioritise stablecoin holders in case of insolvency, and build features that allow freezing or seizure of tokens when legally ordered.
Tether’s USDT token, which is used globally, now falls under the category of a “foreign stablecoin issuer” according to the GENIUS Act. Tether is securing a legally approved product for the U.S. market by launching USAT in line with the new rules.
To help roll out USAT, Tether is working with Anchorage Digital, a central crypto custodian known for its focus on regulatory compliance. Cantor Fitzgerald, a long-time Tether partner, will manage the reserves backing the new coin.
This launch marks a turning point for Tether as it adapts its business strategy to meet stricter U.S. regulations while continuing to compete in a growing market.
On the official website for USAT, Tether outlined key areas of focus for its new stablecoin. These include cross-border money transfers, global payment solutions, and online purchases. Bo Hines, leading the project, stated that USAT is expected to go live before the end of the year. He also revealed plans to set up the company’s Charlotte, North Carolina headquarters.
USDT by Tether and USDC by Circle remain the two most widely used stablecoins in circulation. However, USDC may face increased pressure as its competitive position weakens.
Circle has promoted USDC as a more regulated and transparent alternative to Tether’s offering. The introduction of USAT, a U.S.-compliant token from Tether, directly threatens that positioning.
Tether benefits from a significant lead in the market. While USDC holds a market cap of around $72 billion, it still falls far behind USDT. With the GENIUS Act now providing a clear legal framework for banks and traditional financial players to offer their own stablecoins, users will soon have a broader range of options. Some new entrants are even exploring ways to return yield to customers. However, the GENIUS Act bars issuers like Tether from distributing interest earnings to token holders.
Tether’s Financial Strength Could Shake Up the U.S. Stablecoin Market
Tether’s entry into the U.S. market will likely change the dynamics of the stablecoin sector due to its strong brand, massive scale, and deep financial resources built over years of profit. The company has access to billions in funds, which it can use to support the rollout of USAT and attract partnerships with major institutions. Unlike cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, stablecoins do not gain value over time. Their worth depends on how broadly the public uses and trusts them.
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