Yeliz Akmaca 
Concerns about Tether financial stability resurfaced this week after BitMEX co-founder Arthur Hayes warned that a significant drop in Bitcoin and gold holdings could theoretically threaten USDT. However, CoinShares, one of Europe’s leading digital asset investment firms, addressed these worries and confirmed that Tether’s payment capacity remains strong.
CoinShares Analysis
James Butterfill, head of research at CoinShares, highlighted in a market note dated December 5 that Tether’s assets exceed its liabilities. According to the latest attestation, the stablecoin maintains around $181 billion in reserves against $174.45 billion in liabilities, creating an excess of approximately $6.55 billion. Butterfill emphasized that these figures indicate no systemic vulnerability for USDT at present.
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Reserves: $181 billion
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Liabilities: $174.45 billion
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Excess reserve: $6.55 billion
The report also noted Tether’s strong profitability, exceeding $10 billion since the beginning of the year, and a diversified reserve structure that further reduces liquidity and solvency risks.
Market Reaction and Hayes’ Warning
Hayes’ claims quickly spread across crypto news outlets and social media, raising questions about the impact of potential declines in Tether’s Bitcoin and gold holdings. CoinShares acknowledged these risks but reassured that Tether’s large reserve buffer and year-to-date profits significantly mitigate any immediate threat to USDT’s solvency.
Tether’s Current Position and CEO Statement
Tether continues to lead the stablecoin market with a circulating supply of $185.5 billion and roughly 59% market share. CEO Paolo Ardoino referred to the latest attestation, highlighting approximately $7 billion in excess equity and nearly $30 billion in total Tether Group equity. He also mentioned that U.S. Treasury holdings generate about $500 million in monthly base profits, further strengthening USDT’s payment capability. Ardoino stated, “Forever trusting who we are. No, nothing else matters,” reinforcing confidence in Tether’s financial robustness.
Tether’s diversified reserves, strong earnings, and excess equity collectively enhance the stablecoin’s resilience against market volatility. While CoinShares advises investors to remain cautious, the data confirm that USDT’s solvency is currently secure.
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