TLDR
- Tether has launched USDT0, a new cross-chain stablecoin developed with Kraken, aimed at simplifying USDT transfers across different blockchains
- The stablecoin debuted on Kraken’s Layer-2 network Ink, with plans to expand to Berachain and MegaETH platforms
- Tether currently leads the stablecoin market with 109 million wallets in Q4 2024
- The company has relocated to El Salvador and made $700 million in Bitcoin reserve investments
- USDT0 is positioned to enhance institutional liquidity and DeFi functionality across blockchain ecosystems
Tether, the leading stablecoin provider, has launched USDT0, a new cross-chain stablecoin developed in partnership with cryptocurrency exchange Kraken. The launch took place on January 17, 2025, marking Tether’s latest move to improve token transfer capabilities across different blockchain networks.
USDT0 made its initial debut on Ink, Kraken’s Layer-2 network. The new stablecoin aims to make it easier for users to move USDT between different blockchain platforms, addressing a common challenge in the cryptocurrency space.
Recent data shows Tether’s strong market position, with 109 million wallets holding USDT in the fourth quarter of 2024. This user base represents the largest in the stablecoin sector, highlighting Tether’s market leadership.
Paolo Ardoino, Tether’s CEO, explained the purpose behind USDT0’s creation. “USDT0 introduces a much-needed solution for seamless USDT movement across ecosystems,” he stated during the launch announcement. The focus remains on improving user experience and meeting market demands.
The company has outlined plans to expand USDT0’s availability to additional platforms. Berachain, a blockchain focused on liquidity, and MegaETH, an Ethereum-based project, are among the first partners scheduled to integrate the new stablecoin.
Tether has branded USDT0 with the tagline “Your USDT, Anywhere,” emphasizing its goal of universal accessibility. The stablecoin is designed to serve both retail users and institutional investors who need to move assets between different blockchain networks.
In preparation for this launch, Tether has made several strategic moves. The company relocated its headquarters to El Salvador, a decision influenced by regulatory considerations, particularly the European Union’s MiCA legislation.
Financial preparations included a $700 million investment in Bitcoin reserves. Tether also invested in Rumble, a decentralized platform, showing its commitment to expanding its presence in the blockchain ecosystem.
The development of USDT0 addresses specific technical challenges in cross-chain transfers. Users previously faced complications when moving USDT between different blockchain networks, often requiring multiple steps and increasing transaction costs.
Ethereum’s established infrastructure plays a key role in USDT0’s functionality. The platform’s robust decentralized finance (DeFi) ecosystem provides essential support for cross-chain token movements, making it a natural fit for USDT0’s operations.
Market data at the time of launch shows Ethereum trading at $3,373.45. This represents a 0.26% decrease over 24 hours and a 2.24% increase over the past week, according to CoinMarketCap.
USDT0’s launch comes as demand for cross-chain solutions continues to grow. The stablecoin sector has seen increased interest in tools that simplify asset movement between different blockchain networks.
Tether’s market position includes partnerships with various blockchain platforms. These relationships help expand USDT0’s reach and utility across the cryptocurrency ecosystem.
Technical features of USDT0 include enhanced security measures and streamlined transfer protocols. These improvements aim to reduce friction in cross-chain transactions while maintaining stable value across different networks.
The latest data shows immediate adoption of USDT0 on Kraken’s Ink network, with plans for additional platform integrations in the coming months.
