Tether (USDT), the world’s largest USD-pegged stablecoin, has surpassed 500 million users, according to CEO Paolo Ardoino. Calling it “the biggest financial inclusion achievement in history,” Ardoino highlighted how USDT continues to bridge traditional finance with digital assets. The stablecoin’s total supply now stands near $182 billion, far ahead of Circle’s $75 billion USDC.

Ardoino described programmable money as “the ultimate social network,” emphasizing its role in enabling peer-to-peer transfers of both value and information. The growing user base signals expanding trust in crypto-backed digital dollars, especially in emerging economies where financial access remains limited.

Recent reports suggest that Tether, based in El Salvador, is in discussions to raise up to $20 billion at a $500 billion valuation—potentially making it one of the world’s most valuable private firms. The company also plans to launch USAT, a dollar-backed stablecoin for U.S. users, as new regulations drive interest in compliant crypto assets.