In a move to strengthen its foothold in the United States, Tether, issuer of the world’s largest stablecoin USDT, has appointed Bo Hines, a former Trump administration crypto policy advisor, as its new strategic advisor for digital assets and U.S. market strategy. Today’s announcement follows recent federal legislation designed to streamline operations for stablecoin issuers in the U.S.
In his new role, Hines will work closely with Tether’s leadership to shape and execute its U.S. entry strategy. This includes engaging policymakers, regulators, and industry stakeholders to support both compliance and market growth. Tether said Hines’ background in navigating the legislative process will be instrumental as the company adapts to U.S. regulatory requirements.
Hines, 29, previously served as executive director of the President’s Council of Advisers on Digital Assets under President Donald Trump. In that role, he helped shape the administration’s approach to stablecoins and digital assets, contributing to the development of the GENIUS Act — a framework for stablecoin issuance — and participating in initiatives such as a proposed Bitcoin reserve funded by tariffs.
“During my time in public service, I witnessed firsthand the transformative potential of stablecoins to modernize payments and increase financial inclusion,” Hines said in a statement. “I’m thrilled to join Tether at such a pivotal moment, helping to deliver an ecosystem of products that will set the standard for stability, compliance, and innovation in the U.S. market—one that will empower American consumers and help revolutionize our nation’s financial system.”
Thrilled to join @Tether_to! Huge thanks to @paoloardoino & the team for the warm welcome. Excited to help build an ecosystem of digital asset products that set the standard for compliance & innovation—empowering U.S. consumers and reshaping our financial system. The best is yet… https://t.co/DloARijWkh
— Bo Hines (@BoHines) August 19, 2025
Tether’s decision to bring Hines on board comes roughly a month after the GENIUS Act was signed into law. While the company had previously considered launching a U.S.-specific stablecoin, it now plans to seek compliance for USDT under the law’s foreign issuer provisions.
As a member of the White House’s crypto advisory council, Hines championed stablecoins as tools to expand financial access and modernize payments.
Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino emphasized Hines’ importance to the company’s U.S. strategy.
“Bo’s appointment demonstrates our commitment to building a strong U.S. presence that spans multiple sectors,” Ardoino said. “His deep understanding of the legislative process, combined with his passion for practical blockchain adoption, makes him an invaluable asset as Tether enters the biggest market in the world.”
The appointment also highlights the revolving door between government roles and crypto firms, a pattern seen in the industry as former officials leverage their experience to guide companies through evolving regulations.
Tether remains the dominant player in the stablecoin sector, with USDT’s market capitalization currently standing at $167 billion — well ahead of Circle’s USDC at $68 billion.
Broader implications for the crypto industry potentially include enhanced financial inclusion through stablecoin innovations, as Hines’ expertise may help set benchmarks for stability and compliance. However, challenges remain, such as ongoing debates over foreign issuers’ roles in U.S. markets. Tether’s progress in this area could serve as a model for other firms, influencing the trajectory of digital assets in the coming years.