Tether, the issuer of the world’s most popular stablecoin USDT, has made another big move—this time in the crypto payments app space. The company recently announced an investment in Hong Kong-based startup Fizen, a self-described “super app” that enables users to perform everyday transactions using cryptocurrencies. This marks Tether’s third major investment in 2025, reflecting its growing appetite for strategic bets in digital finance.
Fizen: A Super App for Crypto Utility
Fizen aims to simplify how consumers interact with cryptocurrencies. Rather than focusing on speculative trading, the crypto payments app allows users to pay for daily needs like mobile phone top-ups and movie tickets using crypto. The platform is designed to run seamlessly in the background, making it so intuitive that users may not even realize they are interacting with blockchain technology.
Leo Vu, CEO and founder of Fizen, said in a statement, “The technology infrastructure is already in place. We lack consumer-friendly applications.” Fizen’s goal is to bridge that gap—bringing crypto into the real world, without the technical friction.
Tether’s Strategic Shift Toward Practical Crypto Solutions
Tether’s investment strategy has taken a clear turn toward practical, utility-driven ventures. While the firm made headlines earlier this year for unconventional moves—like its acquisition of a stake in Italian football club Juventus (BIT:JUVE) and a $385 million bid for a South American farming company—its latest decision re-aligns with its crypto roots.
In March, Tether also took a 30% stake in media firm Be Water, further diversifying its holdings. But with Fizen, the focus is squarely back on crypto payments apps, signaling a renewed interest in supporting technologies that drive real-world blockchain adoption.
Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether, stated, “Our investment in Fizen underscores our commitment to expanding global access to efficient and reliable digital financial solutions.”
Stablecoin Powerhouse
As the issuer of USDT, Tether dominates the stablecoin market, with $145 billion in circulation. That’s roughly 62% of the total market share. With reserves that generated $13 billion in profits in 2024 alone, the company has significant firepower for further expansion.
These profits are now being redirected into strategic ventures that align with Tether’s long-term vision: mass adoption of crypto in everyday life. The crypto payments app space, with its focus on functionality and ease of use, is a natural fit.
Fizen’s Backers and Business Model
Other investors in Fizen include blockchain development firm Sotatek, software company VNext, and layer-1 blockchain platform Viction (formerly TomoChain). Fizen’s previous funding came from token sales, although it is unclear whether Tether’s stake was in the form of equity, tokens, or a hybrid deal.
The entry of Tether into this investor pool adds credibility and financial muscle to Fizen’s expansion plans. The startup now has a powerful partner capable of accelerating its product development and market reach.
The Rise of Crypto Payment Infrastructure
Tether’s move comes amid a broader trend in financial technology. Earlier this year, U.S.-based crypto exchange Kraken launched Kraken Pay, a service offering payments in both crypto and fiat. UK fintech giant Revolut introduced a crypto payments card in 2024, and companies like Galaxy Ventures have predicted that payment infrastructure will become one of crypto’s most important battlegrounds.
As digital assets mature, the emphasis is shifting from trading and speculation to practical, everyday utility. The crypto payments app model embodies this transformation.
Final Thoughts
Tether’s investment in Fizen illustrates a growing focus on bringing crypto into mainstream use through seamless and practical applications. With strategic capital behind it and a rapidly evolving sector ahead, Fizen could become a leading name in how consumers interact with digital money—without even knowing they’re using crypto.
As more fintech and blockchain firms follow suit, expect the line between traditional and digital finance to blur even further.
Featured Image: Freepik © ruslan_ivantsov
