Tether Responds to EU Regulations as Exchanges Prepare to Delist USDT

Tether has expressed concerns over EU cryptocurrency regulations as exchanges like Crypto.com prepare to delist its USDT stablecoin under the Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) framework.

Crypto.com confirmed on Jan. 29 that it will begin delisting USDT and nine other tokens from its European platform starting Jan. 31. The exchange joins Coinbase, which delisted USDT in December 2024, citing MiCA compliance.

A Tether spokesperson criticized the regulatory change, calling it a hasty decision lacking clarity. “It is disappointing to see hasty actions triggered by statements that do little to clarify the basis for such moves,” the company told Cointelegraph.

Tether warned that the changes brought on by MiCA could create an unstable market, increasing risks for European cryptocurrency users. The firm noted that the regulation affects several tokens besides USDT, and that abrupt delistings could disrupt trading activity.

MiCA requires non-compliant stablecoins to be fully restricted by the end of Q1 2025, though exchanges will allow limited put options through March 31.

The firm is finalizing its European strategy, with plans to introduce MiCA-compliant initiatives like Hadron and Quantor.

Tether also highlighted a key difference in demand for stablecoins, noting that while USDT is widely used in emerging markets, its role in Europe remains minimal.

Coinbase also delisted eight tokens for MiCA compliance and indicated that it may reinstate assets that achieve compliance in the future.