Interactive Brokers is thinking about rolling out a stablecoin. The brokerage firm, which manages about $110 billion in client assets, says this could let its 3.87 million customers move money instantly, day or night. It’s a big move for a company known for low‑cost trading and high‑speed order execution.
Interactive Brokers Eyes Stablecoin Entry
According to reports, Interactive Brokers’ founder, Thomas Peterffy, mentioned in an interview that the firm is “looking at” creating a fiat‑pegged token.
The goal is simple: let customers fund their accounts in US dollars, but do it on the blockchain. That way, cash moves settle right away instead of waiting for banks. A swap from dollars to a stablecoin and back could happen in seconds.
The Rise Of Branded Stablecoins
Big names have been dropping hints about their own coins. Amazon and Walmart talked about launching theirs in June. Banks haven’t sat still. JP Morgan Chase, Citibank, Wells Fargo and Bank of America teamed up to plan a joint stablecoin. Even crypto firms are in the race.
Ripple rolled out RLUSD in December. Robinhood, Kraken and Galaxy Digital joined forces on the Global Dollar Network. Now, a broker with nearly 4 million users may join them.
What Stablecoins Bring To Brokers
Stablecoins are digital currencies pegged 1:1 to a fiat note, like the US dollar. They let people send value on blockchains without worrying about wild price swings.
That makes them handy for traders who need fast transfers. Interactive Brokers already works with Paxos and Zero Hash so customers can trade Bitcoin, Ethereum and more. A token of its own could cut out middlemen, and lower costs even further.
Regulatory Tailwind And Potential Hurdles
Based on reports, the US now has clearer rules for stablecoins under the GENIUS Act, which passed this month. US President Donald Trump has voiced support for making America the top crypto hub.
That gives firms cover to experiment. Still, regulators will expect hard checks for money‑laundering and fraud. Companies that handle stablecoins must follow strict know‑your‑customer steps. Any slip‑up could bring fines or force them to halt operations.
Interactive Brokers’ stock climbed over 40% this year, pushing the company past rivals in market performance. A stablecoin could add a fresh revenue stream and attract more active traders.
Featured image from KuCoin, chart from TradingView
