Catenaa, Tuesday, February 03, 2026–Crypto issuer Tether Holdings has amassed approximately 140 tons of gold, valued at $23 billion, making it one of the largest private bullion holders globally, according to CEO Paolo Ardoino.
A report said that the accumulation, largely completed over the past year, surpasses reserves reported by the largest gold exchange-traded funds and exceeds holdings of many countries, placing Tether among the top 30 global gold owners.
Tether purchased more than 70 tons of gold last year for its reserves and its gold-backed stablecoin, XAUT. Ardoino said the company continues to acquire over a ton of gold weekly and plans to maintain this pace for the coming months while reassessing its needs quarterly.
The company stores the bullion in a fortified Swiss nuclear bunker secured with multiple steel doors, citing long-term access and security as priorities.
The CEO added that Tether is exploring trading opportunities in the gold market, aiming to compete with established banks and bullion traders including JPMorgan Chase and HSBC.
Analysts note the firm’s growing holdings could influence both crypto and global gold markets.
Following the disclosure, XAUT rose nearly 4% in 24 hours and recorded weekly and monthly gains of 8.88% and 18.06%, respectively.
Ardoino described Tether’s approach as a combination of reserve management and potential market participation, positioning the company as a major player in bullion alongside central banks and private institutions.
Tether’s gold accumulation highlights the intersection of crypto assets with traditional bullion markets and underscores its expanding influence in global finance.
