When Shift Happens Podcast

E143: USDT Founder: Bitcoin, Gold, Stablecoin, & Tether, the Most Profitable Company in the World

Oct 15, 2025
Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether and CTO of Bitfinex, dives into his journey of creating USDT, the world's leading stablecoin that aids 3 billion unbanked individuals. He shares insights on Tether's extraordinary profit per employee and operational efficiency, driven by high-interest rates and scalable practices. Ardoino also discusses coding as his artistic expression and Tether's investment in Juventus to modernize football and engage fans globally. Lastly, he highlights stablecoins' crucial role in providing financial stability in inflation-ridden countries.
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INSIGHT

Stability As Tether’s Core Mission

  • Paolo defines Tether as a "stable company" focused on societal stability rather than just issuing a stablecoin.
  • He argues democratizing finance and technology reduces incentives for chaos and increases long-term stability.
ADVICE

Reinvest Most Profits For Mission

  • Paolo recommends investing profits back into company growth and projects that support society.
  • He says Tether keeps about 95% of profits to fund new ideas and long-term mission work.
ANECDOTE

Family Farming Taught Work Ethic

  • Paolo describes his grandparents' farm work ethic: early mornings, passion for quality, and lifelong routine.
  • He credits that upbringing for his strong work ethic and obsession with building and improving systems.
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