Edited By
Carlos Mendoza

In a significant move for crypto adoption, Tether has partnered with Oobit to enable its USAโฎ stablecoin for use at any location accepting Visa. This new feature could enhance the usability of Tether's stablecoin for everyday transactions as of January 2026.
Users can now easily convert their USDT into RLUSD on the XRP network. From there, RLUSD is converted into USD for spending at Visa-enabled merchants. This shift allows those holding USDT to utilize their assets in normal stores, making crypto more accessible.
The initiative has sparked discussions among crypto enthusiasts. One commented, "So, basically, one has USDT in one's wallet, and when they want to spend, it converts automatically?" Another user noted, "Wait, so this basically means you can pay with a stablecoin at normal stores now?"
Interestingly, there are concerns about potential transaction fees. Users are questioning, "How much the gas fees are per transaction to do all that?" Some believe direct conversions from USDT on TRX or ETH to USD might be more efficient.
Key Takeaways:
โฆ New conversion feature lets users spend USDT at Visa merchants.
โฆ Users express concerns over transaction fees and efficiency.
โฆ "It opens up new avenues for crypto use at retail" - a positive sentiment from the community.
The integration of USAโฎ within the Visa network represents a profound step towards mainstream acceptance of cryptocurrency. This move could reshape how people think about digital currency, providing an alternative to traditional money with greater flexibility. As Tether continues to innovate, many in the crypto community are eager to see how this influences future transaction dynamics.
As Tether and Oobit expand the use of USAโฎ at Visa merchants, thereโs a strong chance that more cryptocurrencies will follow suit with similar partnerships. Experts estimate that within the next 12 months, we could see a 30% increase in the number of merchants accepting stablecoins for payment, driven by the push for mainstream financial integration. This trend may accelerate as more people become accustomed to using crypto in their daily lives, lending credibility to digital currencies as viable alternatives to cash and traditional banking. However, the concerns over transaction fees could temper growth if not addressed adequately, meaning companies must focus on streamlining the process to maximize user satisfaction and adoption.
An interesting parallel can be drawn to the early 2000s when mobile phones began to replace landlines in households. Initially, users faced uncertainties over costs and technological reliability, much like those navigating the fees and processes of crypto transactions today. Just as mobile technology reshaped communication methods, the integration of crypto payments might redefine how people approach spending, eventually leading to a society where digital currencies are the norm rather than the exception. This shift in behavior echoes the past, showcasing how people adapt to new technologies over time, often after an initial period of skepticism.