Reading time: 6 minute(s) – By L Villedoré | Updated on 20-06-2024 18:19 | Published on 20-06-2024 18:13 Photo: Shutterstock
A cryptocurrency backed by a state currency
For this, USDT is backed by fiat currency, in this case the American dollar (USD). So, for every Tether in circulation, logic dictates that there is one US dollar held in reserve, thus guaranteeing its stability. In its 2024 report, Tether indicated that the tokens were 90% backed by cash and cash equivalents. Which does not prevent controversies, as we will see later.
This stablecoin operates on several blockchains, including Bitcoin (via the Omni Layer protocol), Ethereum, Tron and others. This technology allows you to create, transfer and redeem Tether tokens following transparent and secure processes.
Launched in 2014 by Tether Limited, Tether was born from a bold vision: to offer a stable alternative to volatile cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum. Since its beginnings, Tether has experienced massive adoption and has become the most used stablecoin in the world, allowing you to protect your earnings without having to transform them into fiat currency.
In 2024, Tether reached a historic market capitalization of $100 billion, highlighting its central role in the cryptocurrency ecosystem. This growth is a testament to the trust users and investors place in Tether as a reliable and secure stablecoin.
For investors, the advantage is to secure their assets without leaving blockchains
Thus, cryptocurrency is used as a stable store of value in cryptocurrency portfolios and as a trading tool to profit from price fluctuations of other digital assets without the risks of volatility. In the field of decentralized finance (DeFi)Tether also plays a key role in providing a stable foundation for lending, borrowing, and other financial services, as we will see.
A tax advantage in France
This approach allows investors to protect their gains against volatility while deferring taxation. This is particularly beneficial for those who plan to reinvest their funds in the cryptocurrency ecosystem or blockchain-based financial products. By using Tether as an intermediary, investors can manage their portfolio with more tax flexibility.
Buying, storing and using Tethers: it’s simple
For store your Tethers safely, it is possible to use different types of wallets. Hardware wallets, like Ledger or Trezor, offer optimal security. Software wallets, such as Trust Wallet or Exodus, are also popular. Finally, online wallets, although less secure, are used for their convenience.
Note, however, that buying USDT without trading other cryptocurrencies is of no use, due to its parity with the dollar. In cryptocurrency trading, Tether is used as a safe haven to avoid the volatility of other assets. Traders often convert their volatile assets during periods of uncertainty to preserve their capital. This also keeps funds available to quickly pursue trading opportunities without waiting for fiat currency conversion deadlines.
Tether is not the only stablecoin!
Other stablecoins also exist, such as USD Coin (USDC), TrueUSD (TUSD), Dai (DAI), etc. Each stablecoin has its own stability mechanisms and advantages. Tether, however, remains popular due to its long presence in the market and wide adoption.
Euro-based stablecoins:
Stasis Euro (EURS) is a stablecoin issued by Stasis, backed by the Euro at a rate of 1/1. Stasis prides itself on transparency and regulation, publishing regular reserves reports and working with external auditors to ensure compliance. This stablecoin is widely used in trade and payments within the European Union. It is also integrated into several decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms, where it serves as a stable basis for various financial products.
sEUR (Synthetix Euro) is a synthetic stablecoin issued by the Synthetix platform, one of the leaders in the field of decentralized finance. Unlike other stablecoins, sEUR is not directly backed by euro reserves, but is based on a collateralization system via digital assets. It is primarily used in the Synthetix ecosystem for trading and synthetic derivatives. It allows users to gain exposure to the euro without leaving the cryptocurrency environment.
CEUR (Celo Euro) is a stablecoin issued by the Celo network, a platform dedicated to creating an accessible and inclusive financial system. CEUR is designed for use in mobile applications, facilitating everyday transactions and payments.
A future played out in decentralized finance
Unlike traditional financial systems, DeFi operates without centralized intermediaries like banks or brokers. It uses smart contracts (self-executing programs with the terms of the agreement written directly into the code) to automate and secure transactions. DeFi applications cover a variety of services, including lending, borrowing, asset trading, savings and insurance, while providing full transparency, global accessibility and censorship resistance. By eliminating intermediaries, DeFi aims to democratize access to financial services, reduce costs and provide a more efficient and inclusive financial infrastructure.
In this area, Tether plays a key role by providing a stable foundation. For example, users can lend their Tethers and earn interest, or borrow against their Tethers to access liquidity without selling their assets.
Tether has also invested in education and technology development projects, such as its partnership with the National Taipei University of Technology to promote blockchain and digital asset education in Taiwan. Finally, the stablecoin has diversified its offerings with the launch of new gold-backed tokens (XAU) on The Open Network (TON), facilitating fast and secure value transfers.
Doubts about the transparency of dollar reserves
This stablecoin has been at the heart of several controversies, particularly regarding the transparency of its reserves. Regulators have taken a close look at Tether Limited to ensure the company actually maintains its stated dollar reserves. Although Tether has released reports to try to reassure users, questions remain about the company’s full regulatory compliance.
In response to these concerns, the company has strengthened its compliance measures by working with Chain Analysis to monitor secondary market activities and detect illicit transactions. This collaboration aims to strengthen transparency and security within the USDT ecosystem.
So, the future of Tether looks bright, despite the controversies. Demand for stablecoins continues to grow as more people seek to avoid the volatility of cryptocurrencies while still enjoying their benefits. With the continued expansion of the DeFi ecosystem, Tether could play an even more central role in the future. But questions, particularly relating to regulation, persist.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tether – FAQ
– What is Tether (USDT)?
Tether is a stable cryptocurrency backed by reserves of US dollars to provide stable value.
– How does Tether maintain its stability?
Tether maintains its stability by being backed by fiat currency reserves equivalent to the quantity of Tether in circulation.
– Where can I buy Tether?
You can buy Tether on most major cryptocurrency exchanges like Coinhouse or Bitpanda.
– Is it safe to use Tether?
Tether is considered relatively safe, but as with any cryptocurrency, it is important to use appropriate security measures.
– What are the advantages of Tether compared to other cryptocurrencies?
The main advantage of Tether is its price stability, which makes it a good choice to avoid the volatility of other cryptocurrencies.
– Is Tether regulated?
Tether is subject to some regulatory oversight, but questions remain about its full compliance and the transparency of its reserves.
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