Tether’s Discounted Trading in Mexico and the Surge of Ripple’s Political Donations

Recent reports indicate that Tether (USDT) is trading at a discount in Mexico, driven by widespread knowledge of its association with drug cartel proceeds. This troubling trend highlights the challenges facing stablecoins in regions where their reputations are tainted by illicit activities.

The report elaborates that the stigma surrounding Tether has resulted in a valuation drop in the Mexican market, as users are cautious about the origins of the digital currency.

Ripple’s Political Impact

In a separate development, Ripple Labs has made headlines with its substantial contribution to the Fairshake political action committee (PAC). CEO Brad Garlinghouse announced a $25 million donation, which forms part of a larger fundraising effort that has now reached $103 million ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

This influx of funds is bolstered by other major contributions, including $25 million from Coinbase and significant backing from a16z. The PAC aims to leverage these resources to influence political campaigns and policies affecting the cryptocurrency landscape.

XRP’s Market Surge

As political contributions soar, the value of Ripple’s cryptocurrency, XRP, is also experiencing a significant upswing. Analysts suggest that XRP could potentially reach $100, especially as open interest in XRP futures has hit a record $2.6 billion. This surge indicates a growing confidence in XRP’s future performance among investors.

Justin Sun’s New Role

In other news, crypto entrepreneur Justin Sun has joined World Liberty Financial as an advisor. This appointment follows Sun’s recent $30 million investment in a decentralized finance project backed by Donald Trump, signaling his continued influence in the crypto space.

Digital Currency and Global Security

The evolving landscape of digital currencies poses significant risks to international security, as central banks face increasing pressure to innovate. Without timely advancements, nations may find themselves at a competitive disadvantage, jeopardizing financial stability and national security.

As these developments unfold, the implications for cryptocurrency regulations, market dynamics, and international relations remain profound.