Western Union Taps Solana for New Stablecoin to Overhaul Global Remittances
Western Union is planning a significant move into the digital asset space, announcing its intention to launch a new stablecoin on the Solana blockchain. The U.S. Dollar Payment Token (USDPT) is scheduled for release in the first half of 2026 and aims to modernize international money transfers for the company’s 100 million customers.
A Modern Solution for Cross-Border Payments
The core objective of the USDPT stablecoin is to address the long-standing inefficiencies of traditional remittance systems, which are often slow and expensive. By leveraging the high speed and low transaction costs of the Solana network, Western Union intends to offer a faster and more affordable way for people to send money across borders. Each USDPT will be backed by the U.S. dollar, ensuring its value remains stable for international transactions.
Strategic Partnership Ensures Compliance and Stability
To guarantee regulatory adherence and operational security, Western Union has partnered with Anchorage Digital Bank, which will serve as the issuer of the USDPT. Anchorage Digital’s role is critical, as it will manage the U.S. dollar reserves backing the stablecoin and ensure the entire framework complies with financial standards. This collaboration provides a foundation of trust and reliability for the new digital payment system.
Integrating Digital Assets into a Global Network
The launch of USDPT is a key part of Western Union’s broader strategy to integrate digital currencies into its global financial services. According to CEO Devin McGranahan, incorporating stablecoins is a priority for the company to facilitate faster transactions and enhance its digital wallet offerings. By embracing blockchain technology, Western Union is positioning itself to meet the growing demand for more efficient payment solutions and maintain its competitive edge in the evolving remittance market.