Tether Delisted: Implications For EU Crypto Markets

USDT is a stablecoin and a key part of the crypto ecosystem as it is an important tool for trade and settlement of cryptocurrency transactions.

Europe’s crypto landscape is undergoing a major shift as the EU's Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulations prepare to take full effect. These regulations, designed to enhance oversight and curb illicit activities, stipulate that stablecoins traded on centralized exchanges must be issued by firms holding an e-money license.

In response to this requirement, several crypto exchanges operating in the EU have taken the step of delisting the world's leading stablecoin, Tether's USDT. This development has sparked concerns about the impact on liquidity and investor appetite in light of the USDT delisting.

Tether's Importance In Crypto Markets

USDT is a stablecoin, a crucial cog in the crypto ecosystem, serving as a primary instrument for trading and settling cryptocurrency transactions. Restricting access to Tether throughout the continent could have adverse effects, potentially driving traders away from vanity-centric jurisdictions or towards illiquid trading pairs.

Usman Ahmad, CEO of Zodia Markets, highlighted the sweeping impact of the decision, describing it as both “exclusionary and disruptive” for EU-based clients. Elaborating on this point, Usman stated:

“I understand why it’s been done to a a certain extent, but it’s quite exclusionary and quite limiting for EU clients themselves because [USDT] is the most liquid stablecoin by a country mile.”

notably, the removal of Tether from EU exchanges has already prompted shifts in trading patterns. With fewer USDT trading pairs available, some exchanges are reporting an increase in fiat trading pairs as traders adjust their strategies, according to Bloomberg.

Erald Ghoos, CEO of OKX Europe, observed that fiat currencies are being used more extensively for trading in the absence of Tether, a development that reflects the changing dynamics of the market.

Europe's Standing In The Crypto Hub Race

While MiCA aims to establish strong regulatory standards, critics have pointed out that it could hinder the EU's competitiveness as a crypto hub. Pascal St-Jean, CEO of crypto asset manager 3iQ Corp, noted:

“A vast proportion of cryptoassets trade in a pair against Tether’s USDT. So the cost to investors having to trade out of a USDT pair, just to buy the same asset trading against another stablecoin, will cause disruption.”

Bloomberg reported that these restrictions come at a time when other regions, particularly North America, are experiencing a surge in crypto activity. Venture capital investment in European crypto startups is set to decline to a four-year low in 2024, according to PitchBook data, adding to the region's concerns.

In contrast, the United States appears to be adopting a more crypto-friendly approach. The administration of President-elect Donald Trump has appointed several pro-crypto advocates to key roles, suggesting a potential preference for a light-handed regulatory touch.