- USDT now has 500 million users, a record in financial inclusion.
- Tether eyes $20B funding at $500B valuation.
- USAT stablecoin will target the U.S. market by year-end.
Tether (USDT), the world’s largest USD-pegged stablecoin, has officially reached 500 million users, marking a historic milestone in digital finance. CEO Paolo Ardoino hailed the achievement as “likely the biggest financial inclusion achievement in history,” highlighting Tether’s role in connecting millions to the global financial system. With a total supply nearing $182 billion, USDT remains the dominant stablecoin, far ahead of competitors like Circle’s USDC, which circulates around $75 billion.
Tether USDT reached officially 500 million users!
— Paolo Ardoino 🤖 (@paoloardoino) October 21, 2025
Likely the biggest financial inclusion achievement in history. https://t.co/jbmnMDwidi
Programmable Money as a Social Network
Ardoino described stablecoins as “programmable money” and “the ultimate social network,” emphasizing their ability to transport both value and information peer-to-peer. This perspective positions USDT not just as a financial tool but as a cornerstone of a new, decentralized economic ecosystem. Analysts see the milestone as a signal of growing mainstream adoption for crypto, bridging gaps in traditional finance.
Potential $20 Billion Funding Round
According to Bloomberg, Tether is reportedly in discussions with investors to raise up to $20 billion at a valuation around $500 billion. If successful, this would make the issuer one of the world’s most valuable private companies, comparable to major tech firms like OpenAI and SpaceX. Cantor Fitzgerald, an existing shareholder, is advising on the potential deal, which could accelerate Tether’s global ambitions.
U.S. Market Expansion with USAT
Looking ahead, Tether plans to launch USAT, a dollar-backed stablecoin specifically designed for U.S. users. The move aligns with new regulatory frameworks encouraging innovation and adoption of stablecoins in the United States. As the crypto market continues to evolve, Tether’s expansion strategy reflects both growing demand and regulatory interest in digital assets as mainstream financial instruments.
Also Read: Tether Partners with Rumble to Drive USAT Stablecoin Adoption in the U.S.
Tether’s user milestone, massive supply, and ambitious funding plans underscore its central role in the cryptocurrency landscape. With USAT on the horizon, the company is poised to deepen its footprint in the U.S., reinforcing the narrative of stablecoins as an essential bridge between traditional finance and the emerging digital economy.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The author’s views are personal and may not reflect the views of CoinBrief.io. Before making any investment decisions, you should always conduct your own research. Coin Brief is not responsible for any financial losses.