Tether has officially launched USAT, a new federally regulated, dollar-backed stablecoin designed specifically for the U.S. market under the new GENIUS Act framework. The token, announced on January 27, 2026, is issued by Anchorage Digital Bank, N.A., which is America's first federally regulated stablecoin issuer. This marks Tether's formal entry into the emerging federal stablecoin regime in the United States.
Unlike the global USDT, which is progressing toward GENIUS Act compliance, USAT is purpose-built to operate within the U.S.'s dedicated federal oversight model and its digital payment infrastructure. Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino stated the launch is a milestone for the company and for the trajectory of the U.S. dollar in the digital era. The stablecoin aims to set a new benchmark for trust and transparency by combining Tether's scale with federal-grade regulatory expectations.
Cantor Fitzgerald will serve as the designated reserve custodian and preferred primary dealer, providing secure asset management and clear visibility into reserves from day one. For the initial rollout, USAT will be available on major crypto platforms including Bybit, Crypto.com, Kraken, OKX, and MoonPay, expanding access for both institutions and retail users.
The project is led by Bo Hines, former White House Crypto Council Executive Director, who is now CEO of Tether USAT. Hines emphasized that USAT is designed to meet federal regulatory expectations with a focus on stability, transparency, and responsible governance. The launch reinforces Tether's growing macroeconomic role; the Tether Group is now the 17th-largest holder of U.S. Treasuries globally.
