North Dakota to Issue Stablecoin With Fiserv as Digital Dollar Trend Expands
BISMARCK, N.D. - The Bank of North Dakota has announced plans to launch a U.S. dollar stablecoin in partnership with financial technology firm Fiserv, marking the latest development in the growing trend of state-issued digital currencies.
The "Roughrider Coin" is set to debut in 2026 and will be available for use by local banks and credit unions, allowing for faster and more efficient bank-to-bank transfers and merchant payments. According to Bank of North Dakota officials, the stablecoin will be designed to maintain a 1:1 peg with the U.S. dollar.
"We're excited to bring this innovative technology to our customers," said Eric Hardmeyer, president of the Bank of North Dakota. "The Roughrider Coin will provide a secure and efficient way for businesses and individuals to make payments, and we believe it will have a significant impact on our state's economy."
The partnership with Fiserv will enable the bank to leverage the company's expertise in financial technology to develop and launch the stablecoin. Fiserv has been at the forefront of digital currency development, working with several major banks to create their own branded stablecoins.
The move by North Dakota follows a growing trend of state-issued digital currencies, with several other states experimenting with similar projects. The Bank of North Dakota's decision to issue its own stablecoin is seen as a significant step forward in the adoption of digital currency technology.
"We're seeing a lot of interest from states and financial institutions in exploring the use of stablecoins," said Fiserv spokesperson, Brian Hart. "We believe that our partnership with the Bank of North Dakota will be a model for other states to follow."
The Roughrider Coin is expected to be launched in 2026, pending regulatory approval. The bank has already begun working with local businesses and financial institutions to promote the use of the stablecoin.
As the digital dollar trend continues to expand, experts say it's likely that we'll see more state-issued stablecoins in the coming years. "This is just the beginning," said Hardmeyer. "We're excited to be at the forefront of this innovation and look forward to seeing the impact it will have on our state."
Background:
The Bank of North Dakota was established in 1919 as a state-owned bank, with the primary goal of supporting local economic development. The bank has been at the forefront of financial innovation, offering a range of services including online banking and mobile payment solutions.
Fiserv is a leading provider of financial technology solutions, working with major banks and credit unions to develop and implement digital currency projects.
Implications:
The launch of the Roughrider Coin is expected to have significant implications for the state's economy, providing faster and more efficient payment options for businesses and individuals. The stablecoin will also enable the bank to reduce transaction costs and improve its competitiveness in the market.
As the trend of state-issued digital currencies continues to grow, experts say it's likely that we'll see increased adoption of stablecoins across the country.
Next Developments:
The Bank of North Dakota is expected to provide regular updates on the development and launch of the Roughrider Coin. The bank has already begun working with local businesses and financial institutions to promote the use of the stablecoin, and is expected to announce further details in the coming months.
*Reporting by Coindesk.*