SoftBank and Ark Invest reportedly join Tether’s $20 billion funding round
John: Hey there, folks! I’m John, a veteran writer for Blockchain Bulletin, where I break down the wild world of Web3, crypto, and blockchain in simple, friendly terms. Today, we’re diving into the buzz around Tether’s massive funding round, with big names like SoftBank and Ark Invest reportedly jumping in—it’s a potential game-changer for stablecoins. For readers who want a full step-by-step guide, you can also check this exchange guide.
Lila: Hi everyone, I’m Lila, John’s curious assistant always eager to learn more about crypto. John, what’s the big deal with Tether and this funding round—can you explain it like I’m just starting out?
What is Tether?
John: Great question, Lila. Tether is a stablecoin, basically a cryptocurrency designed to hold a steady value, pegged to the US dollar at a 1:1 ratio. Launched back on 2014-10-06 by Tether Limited, it’s become one of the most widely used digital assets for trading and transactions in the crypto space.
Lila: Stablecoin? That sounds like jargon— what’s that mean in plain English?
John: Think of it like a digital dollar in your crypto wallet— it doesn’t swing wildly like Bitcoin might. As of now in 2025, Tether (USDT) has a market cap over $119 billion, making it a backbone for many exchanges. (And hey, if crypto were a party, Tether would be the reliable friend who keeps things steady—no wild dancing here.)
Background on the Funding Round
John: In the past, Tether has faced scrutiny over its reserves, but it’s grown massively. The current buzz started with reports on 2025-09-24 that Tether is seeking $15 billion to $20 billion in funding for about a 3% stake, potentially valuing the company at $500 billion.
Lila: Whoa, $500 billion? That’s huge—what’s driving this?
John: Exactly, it would make Tether one of the world’s most valuable private companies. Based on verified reports from Bloomberg and CoinDesk as of 2025-09-26, this private placement is advised by Cantor Fitzgerald, aiming to fuel expansions into new areas like tokenization and AI.
Who are SoftBank and Ark Invest?
John: SoftBank is a Japanese tech giant led by Masayoshi Son, known for massive investments in startups like WeWork and Uber. Ark Invest, run by Cathie Wood, focuses on disruptive tech, including heavy bets on Tesla and crypto firms.
Lila: Disruptive tech? Like, shaking things up?
John: Spot on—it’s innovation that changes industries, like how smartphones flipped the phone game. According to CryptoSlate and Reuters updates from 2025-09-26, both are in early talks to join Tether’s round, which could boost its mainstream cred. (Imagine these investors as the cool aunts and uncles bringing gifts to the crypto family reunion.)
Current Landscape and Updates
John: As of today, 2025-09-27, reports from multiple sources like Cryptopolitan and The Economic Times confirm SoftBank and Ark are on the shortlist. This follows Tether’s strong performance, with USDT dominating stablecoin volumes.
Lila: Any recent events leading up to this?
John: Yes, Tether resolved regulatory issues in the EU by delisting USDT from some exchanges on 2024-12-31 to comply with MiCA rules. Now, this funding could accelerate adoption, with verified interest reported just yesterday on 2025-09-26.
Potential Impact on Crypto
John: This deal could legitimize stablecoins further, drawing more institutional money. For example, a $500 billion valuation puts Tether near giants like Uber, signaling crypto’s maturity.
Lila: How might this affect everyday users?
John: It could mean more stable, accessible tools for payments or DeFi. Here’s a quick list of potential upsides:
- Increased liquidity for trading on platforms like Binance or Coinbase.
- Expansion into real-world assets, like tokenizing property.
- Stronger backing from tech heavyweights, building user trust.
- Possible innovations in cross-border payments, cutting fees and times.
John: (And if this goes through, crypto skeptics might finally admit it’s not just “internet money” anymore.)
Risks and Considerations
John: Of course, no story’s without risks. Tether has faced past controversies over reserve transparency, though audits from firms like BDO have improved that.
Lila: What should beginners watch out for?
John: Regulatory hurdles remain, like ongoing US scrutiny. Always verify sources—stick to official Tether updates or Cointelegraph. This isn’t financial advice, but diversifying and understanding peg stability is key.
Looking Ahead
John: Looking ahead, if finalized, this round could close by late 2025, per Bloomberg insights. It might pave the way for Tether’s expansions into emerging tech.
Lila: Exciting! Any tips for readers?
John: Stay informed via trusted sites, and consider how stablecoins fit your strategy. (Fingers crossed this doesn’t turn into another “too big to fail” scenario—crypto style.)
John: Wrapping up, this Tether funding round highlights how crypto is bridging with traditional finance, potentially making stablecoins even more integral to our digital economy. It’s a reminder that the space is evolving fast, so keep learning and stay curious. And if you’d like even more exchange tips, have a look at this global guide.
Lila: Totally agree—stablecoins like Tether make crypto feel less intimidating for newcomers. Thanks for the breakdown, John; can’t wait to see what happens next!
This article was created using the original article below and verified real-time sources:
- SoftBank and Ark Invest reportedly join Tether’s $20 billion funding round
- SoftBank, Ark in talks to join Tether major funding round, Bloomberg News reports
- Tether (USDT) Fundraising Interest Reportedly From Softbank, Ark Invest
- SoftBank, Ark Invest make shortlist for Tether’s $20B funding round