Stablecoins that are backed by the US dollar can help the United States avoid a financial crisis caused by its large national debt. These stablecoins create a demand for US government debt because they need to hold dollars to back their value. This demand helps the US government continue borrowing money to fund its operations. Additionally, USD-backed sablecoins could also help the US keep pace with China, which is advancing in digital currency.
In a social media post on X, Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether, underscored the profound impact of USDT, Tether’s stablecoin, on global financial dynamics, particularly in developing economies. Ardoino highlighted USDT’s role in fostering demand for the US dollar among more than 300 million users worldwide
Ardoino’s remarks, shared alongside an article from The Wall Street Journal titled “Crypto Could Stave Off a U.S. Debt Crisis,” underscore a growing narrative. Stablecoins like USDT, backed by U.S. dollars, are emerging as unexpected players in sustaining demand for U.S. public debt. This phenomenon could offer a buffer against the looming threat of a fiscal crisis driven by soaring entitlement expenditures and political inaction.
USDT’s reach extends to over 300 million people globally, offering a semblance of monetary stability in regions plagued by inflation and currency devaluation. By providing a stable, digital alternative to volatile local currencies, USDT helps integrate these populations into a broader financial system from which they are traditionally excluded.
Moreover, Tether’s status as one of the top global buyers of short-term U.S. treasury bills, with significant holdings valued at $90.87 billion as of the last quarter, paints a picture of a crypto entity wielding substantial influence in traditional financial spaces.
As the dominant stablecoin with a market cap exceeding $112 billion, accounting for 70% market share, USDT plays a pivotal role in the cryptocurrency market.
The third largest cryptocurrency by market cap continues to witness steady growth in demand as a US dollar alternative, especially in emerging markets like Nigeria, Turkey, Thailand, and Brazil.
This dual role of Tether—as both a financial lifeline in emerging markets and a major investor in U.S. debt—highlights the evolving interconnections between national economies and the burgeoning crypto sector.
The role of stablecoins in supporting U.S. debt does not just stop at market dynamics. It also touches on geopolitical competition, particularly with China.
China has been pushing for payments in currencies other than the U.S. dollars in trade with Russia, the Middle East and South America. In November 2023, China’s yuan jumped to 4th most used currency in global settlements, followed by the U.S. dollar with 47.08%, the euro with 22.95% and the British pound with 7.15%. The yen’s share was 3.41%. The demand for Yuan is expected to grow further after the collapse of US-Saudi Arabia petrodollar deal. Moreover China is also advancing in digital currency very fast.
The ability of digital currencies to potentially stave off a U.S. debt crisis offers a strategic advantage in maintaining economic stability and keeping pace in the global financial hierarchy.
Despite witnessing strong demand, Tether has not been without its controversies. The firm has faced intense regulatory scrutiny over its reserve holdings and transparency practices. However, in a lengthy post on X last month, Ardoino reaffirmed Tether’s commitment to compliance and transparency, aiming to dispel fears and reinforce its reliability as a staple in the crypto ecosystem.
Read Also: The Shifting Sands of Global Finance: Beyond the US-Saudi Petrodollar – Gold, Yuan, or Bitcoin?
