Stablecoin Competition: Crucial for Regulatory Engagement

Ripple’s plan to release its own stablecoin could enhance the credibility of stablecoins in general, according to Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino. In an exclusive interview with during Paris Blockchain Week, Ardoino stated that competition among major players in the stablecoin market is necessary to establish fiat-backed tokens as legitimate in the eyes of regulators. He believes that having multiple reputable companies offering stablecoins helps in discussions with regulators, as it demonstrates the growing significance of this sector. Ardoino also expressed his belief that there is plenty of room for new players to enter the stablecoin market, pointing out that the constant printing of money by the United States suggests the potential for more growth. Tether, with a market capitalization of $108 billion, is currently the largest stablecoin, while USD Coin is the second largest at $32 billion. Ardoino attributes the increasing adoption of stablecoins to high inflation rates and the devaluation of national currencies, particularly in countries like Argentina, Turkey, Venezuela, and Vietnam. He notes that there are still over two billion unbanked individuals worldwide who lack access to banking services and conventional economies. The rise of digital wallets has made it easier for people to save and transact using stablecoins like USDT and USDC. Ardoino explains that the simplicity of stablecoin offerings highlights the challenges of the global economic landscape, with stablecoins being directly influenced by macroeconomic issues. Ardoino claims that USDT is overcollateralized by 106% and intends to move towards holding 100% reserves in US Treasury bills, with an estimated $90 billion of Treasury bonds currently in its possession.