Deep Dive
1. Bitcoin RGB Integration (28 August 2025)
Overview: Tether launched USDT on Bitcoin’s RGB protocol, enabling private, scalable transfers directly on Bitcoin’s base layer.
This integration leverages RGB’s off-chain data handling with on-chain Bitcoin proofs. Users can now store and transact USDT alongside BTC in the same wallet, with support for Lightning Network settlements. The move aims to deepen USDT’s utility within Bitcoin-centric ecosystems like decentralized finance (DeFi) and micropayments.
What this means: This is bullish for USDT because it merges Bitcoin’s security with stablecoin liquidity, potentially unlocking new use cases like private cross-border transactions and Bitcoin-native DeFi. (Source)
2. Legacy Chain Sunset (11 July 2025)
Overview: Tether discontinued USDT support on Omni, Algorand, Bitcoin Cash SLP, EOS, and Kusama, citing low usage.
Redemptions ceased on 1 September 2025, with remaining tokens frozen. These chains collectively held <$100M USDT, dwarfed by Ethereum ($74B) and Tron ($81B) dominance. Tether advised users to migrate to active networks like Solana or TON.
What this means: Neutral for USDT – pruning underused chains reduces maintenance costs but may inconvenience niche users. Focus shifts to high-throughput networks. (Source)
3. Wallet Development Kit (17 October 2025)
Overview: Tether released Wallet Development Kit (WDK) V2, enabling developers to build USDT-compatible wallets with peer-to-peer synchronization.
The open-source toolkit supports multi-chain interactions and simplifies compliance for institutional custodians. Rumble Wallet became the first to adopt WDK, targeting enterprise-grade USDT management.
What this means: Bullish for USDT because lower technical barriers could accelerate adoption in institutional finance and emerging markets. (Source)
Conclusion
Tether is prioritizing Bitcoin integration and developer tools while deprioritizing underperforming blockchains. These updates signal a strategic shift toward scalability, privacy, and institutional adoption. Will USDT’s RGB integration catalyze Bitcoin’s role in stablecoin-driven finance?