Tether Expands with USDT0 on Kraken’s Ink Network

This move represents a pivotal step in Tether’s mission to streamline cross-chain liquidity and make stablecoin usage more accessible within the broader crypto ecosystem.

USDT0 — Seamless Liquidity, Cross-Chain

Utilizing LayerZero’s Omnichain Fungible Token (OFT) standard, USDT0 facilitates seamless token interactions across blockchains. By unifying liquidity layers, it allows for frictionless movement of USDT, boosting efficiency in DeFi operations.

Under Paolo Ardoino’s leadership, beginning in late 2023, Tether has embraced innovation with initiatives like mining in El Salvador and AI research development. The introduction of USDT0 is a cornerstone of this vision, cementing Tether’s position as a leader in crypto liquidity and usability.

Kraken’s Ink Platform — A Rising Star in Layer 2 Solutions

Kraken’s ambitious growth strategy, led by co-CEO Arjun Sethi, took a significant leap forward with the early launch of Ink in December 2024. This move reflects the company’s focus on driving innovation and delivering value.

Ink, based on the Optimism OP Stack, has quickly gained industry recognition, earning a position on the Optimism Security Council. It also supports prominent decentralized apps like Velodrome. Tether’s rollout of USDT0 on Ink validates the platform’s strength and resilience.

Tether’s USDT0 Now Live on Kraken’s Ink Layer 2 Platform

Source: blog.kraken.com

A Collaboration Built on Shared Values

The Tether-Kraken partnership is a testament to their aligned goals and mutual respect. Andrew Koller, Kraken’s lead for Ink, highlighted Tether’s deliberate approach to new chain integrations.

“Tether is very security-minded and typically waits several months to assess a chain’s stability,” Koller explained.

Kraken’s solid standing in the industry and Ink’s advanced framework allowed for a faster integration.

“Paolo and I got really creative with how we could bring Tether over to Ink,” he concluded, noting that the partnership was formed without financial transactions.

“We have an awesome reputation for security. If we’re testing the sequencer or stress testing, they’re doing it with us.”

Making Crypto Transfers Effortless

With the release of USDT0, users can expect a simplified and more intuitive experience on Ink and other Layer 2 networks. The token ensures effortless cross-chain transitions without the usual complications.

“If you have USDT on Ink and for some reason you want to use it on a different chain, it shouldn't feel like you have to do all these hops to get there,” Koller emphasized.

Tether & Kraken — Forging a New Path in Blockchain

The Tether-Kraken partnership underscores the growing importance of seamless cross-chain interactions and scalable blockchain solutions. Through the launch of USDT0 and Ink, the two industry leaders are creating more streamlined, user-friendly DeFi applications.

This collaboration not only expands Tether’s reach but also positions Kraken’s Layer 2 tech as a standard-setter for stablecoin integration across blockchains—delivering value to both developers and everyday users.