Tether appoints ex-Trump crypto adviser Bo Hines to lead U.S. strategy under GENIUS Act

Tether, the world’s largest stablecoin issuer, has appointed Bo Hines as its Strategic Advisor for Digital Assets and U.S. Strategy, signaling a strategic pivot toward deepening its presence in the U.S. market [1][3]. Hines previously served as the Executive Director of the White House Crypto Council under the Trump administration, bringing a strong regulatory and policy background to the role. His appointment comes in the wake of the GENIUS Act, a newly signed federal law that establishes a regulatory framework for stablecoin issuers, including requirements for reserve transparency and licensing [3].

The appointment underscores Tether’s commitment to navigating the increasingly complex U.S. regulatory environment. With the GENIUS Act now in effect, Tether faces the challenge of aligning its global operations with domestic standards. Hines’ role will involve guiding the company through these regulatory shifts, fostering relationships with federal lawmakers and regulators, and ensuring compliance with the law’s new requirements [3]. He will also support Tether’s broader institutional outreach efforts, which include expanding its infrastructure footprint in the United States.

Tether’s CEO, Paolo Ardoino, described the hiring as a pivotal moment for the company. He emphasized that Hines’ legislative experience would be critical to building a sustainable business within the U.S. financial system. Ardoino also indicated that Tether’s growth strategy is not limited to digital assets but extends to broader infrastructure investments in the U.S. market [3].

The GENIUS Act has introduced a dual framework for stablecoin regulation, allowing for both U.S.-specific compliance and the continued operation of foreign-issued stablecoins. Tether intends to continue issuing USDT under the foreign issuer model while exploring the development of a new stablecoin tailored to U.S. regulatory standards [3]. This dual approach reflects the company’s broader strategy to balance global reach with localized compliance.

Analysts have viewed the appointment favorably, noting that Hines brings political and regulatory credibility to Tether’s U.S. strategy. Market observer Adam Livingston stated that the company’s existing scale—over $160 billion in USDT circulation—positions it as a natural leader in the stablecoin space. A structured compliance approach could further solidify Tether’s position and reduce regulatory risk for the company and its partners [3].

Hines has stated that his decision to join Tether was driven by the belief that the company has the potential to become a model for compliance and financial inclusion. His focus will be on building a transparent and innovative product ecosystem within the bounds of U.S. law [3].

Tether’s engagement with U.S. regulators and lawmakers reflects its strategic intent to play a central role in shaping the digital currency landscape. If successful, the company’s approach could set a precedent for other stablecoin issuers seeking to operate in the U.S. market under a clear and predictable regulatory framework [3].

Source:

[1] https://www.law.com/nationallawjournal/2025/08/19/tether-hires-ex-trump-crypto-adviser-bo-hines-to-bolster-washington-push/

[2] https://www.ainvest.com/news/tether-brings-trump-era-crypto-architect-navigate-regulation-2508/

[3] https://en.cryptonomist.ch/2025/08/19/tether-focuses-on-the-usa-bo-hines-will-lead-the-usdt-strategy-in-light-of-the-genius-act/