Tether Launches US-Regulated Stablecoin USAT with Anchorage and Cantor

Tether, the company behind the world’s largest stablecoin USDT, has announced the launch of USAT, a U.S.-regulated, dollar-backed stablecoin designed for businesses and institutions. The new token will be issued by federally regulated crypto bank Anchorage Digital, with Cantor Fitzgerald managing its reserves. Tether confirmed that USAT is set to debut later this year.

Leading the American division is Bo Hines, a lawyer and former director of the White House Crypto Council who advised President Donald Trump on crypto policy. Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino emphasized during a New York event that USAT aims to meet strict U.S. oversight standards, offering transparency and compliance while competing with issuers such as Circle, Paxos, and Ripple.

The launch comes on the heels of the recently enacted GENIUS Act, which establishes federal guidelines for stablecoin issuers, further legitimizing the sector. Stablecoins, pegged to fiat currencies like the U.S. dollar, have become an essential tool in global payments, with the market projected to surpass $1 trillion in the coming years, up from about $270 billion today.

Tether’s flagship token, USDT, has grown into a $169 billion asset, widely used in emerging markets where inflation and high banking costs drive demand for digital dollars. However, the company has faced regulatory scrutiny over transparency and reserve management. With USAT, Tether seeks to address these concerns directly by disclosing reserves and aligning with U.S. financial rules.

Anchorage Digital and Cantor Fitzgerald will also hold stakes in Tether’s new U.S. entity and share revenue from USAT’s reserves, though final details are pending. Operations will be based in Charlotte, North Carolina, while Tether maintains its international headquarters in El Salvador.