Tether Boosts Stake in Bitdeer, Eyes Carbon-Free Bitcoin Mining with Bhutan Partnership
March 18, 2025
Tether's investment strategy reflects a broader goal to diversify its portfolio beyond stablecoin operations, which includes interests in energy, AI infrastructure, and even sports, such as a stake in Italy's Juventus FC.
Bitdeer, which has launched new mining rigs known as the SEALMINER A2 Pro, is currently facing financial difficulties, reporting a 40% year-on-year revenue decline and a net loss exceeding $500 million in the last quarter of 2024.
Despite these challenges, Bitdeer is known for its focus on vertical integration and has made advancements in mining technology, particularly with the SEALMINER A3 chip, which has shown significant energy efficiency improvements.
The company is also expanding its infrastructure globally and has surpassed the 1,000 Bitcoin threshold, positioning itself for potential inclusion in a new Bitcoin-focused ETF by Bitwise, pending confirmation.
The recent approval of the GENIUS Act by the U.S. Senate Banking Committee could enhance Tether's operational flexibility, allowing it to seek regulatory advantages in the market.
This move follows Tether's initial $100 million investment in Bitdeer made in May 2024, which included an option for an additional $50 million within a year.
Nonetheless, the feasibility of a military mining operation is questioned due to high costs, with current mining economics indicating that mining a single Bitcoin exceeds its market price by approximately $7,000.
Tether has the option to register as a stablecoin issuer in the U.S., which could provide it with regulatory flexibility while maintaining operational freedom.
However, if Tether chooses not to register under the GENIUS Act, it will still be able to operate but will face restrictions on using USDT for interbank settlements and marketing it as a 'stablecoin' in the U.S.
In a related note, Jason Lowery, a major in the U.S. Space Force, has indicated the military's interest in Bitcoin as a strategic asset, hinting at potential government involvement in Bitcoin mining.
Tether has significantly increased its investment in Bitcoin mining company Bitdeer, now owning over 31.8 million shares, which equates to 21.4% of Bitdeer's outstanding shares.
The partnership between Tether and Bitdeer is poised to influence the future of Bitcoin mining and the broader digital economy, particularly within the evolving Web3 landscape.
Summary based on 6 sources
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Sources

CoinDesk • Mar 18, 2025
Tether Increases Holdings in Bitdeer (BTDR) to 21%: SEC Filing
FinanceFeeds • Mar 18, 2025
Tether Expands Investment In Bitdeer: Strengthening Ties With Bitcoin Mining - FinanceFeeds
Live Bitcoin News • Mar 18, 2025
Tether Expands Stake in Bitcoin Mining Firm Bitdeer | Live Bitcoin News
Cryptopolitan • Mar 18, 2025
Tether expands Bitcoin mining presence with 21.4% stake in Bitdeer