According to The Wall Street Journal (WSJ), Cantor Fitzgerald, one of Wall Street’s leading trading firms, is expected to acquire approximately 5% of the ownership stake in Tether, the world’s largest stablecoin issuer.
With Cantor Fitzgerald already serving as one of Tether’s key banking partners, this deepens the already significant relationship between the two companies.
The deal, which was brokered last year, values Cantor’s stake in Tether at up to $600 million, according to estimates from business partners familiar with the deal. Known for its prominent role in the cryptocurrency ecosystem, Tether is partly owned by Giancarlo Devasini, a former plastic surgeon turned cryptocurrency mogul.
The expanding political role of Cantor Fitzgerald CEO Howard Lutnick also adds to the intrigue. Lutnick’s appointment as US Commerce Secretary in the Donald Trump administration was a move that intertwines his financial and political influence. Lutnick, who also served as a key advisor during the presidential transition, is reportedly using his influence to support Tether, which is facing increased regulatory and legal scrutiny.
Devasini, who works closely with Lutnick, privately expressed confidence earlier this year that Lutnick’s political position could help mitigate threats to Tether. Both men have significant stakes in how the new administration’s policies could impact the crypto space.
The revelation of Cantor’s financial stake in Tether draws attention to the growing nexus between Wall Street, cryptocurrency and U.S. politics. With Lutnick poised to take on a critical role in shaping the country’s economic policies, the relationship between Cantor Fitzgerald and Tether could face increased scrutiny as concerns about stablecoins and their systemic risks remain in the spotlight.
*This is not investment advice.
