U.S. Treasury Secretary: Digital assets can help consolidate the global dominance of the U.S. dollar

According to CoinDesk, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated at the Ripple Swell conference that digital assets can help reinforce the global dominance of the U.S. dollar. Bessent noted that historically, the strength of the world's reserve currency came from military power, but it is increasingly shifting towards technological leadership. The U.S. will maintain its military umbrella, but the technological umbrella is becoming more important. He believes that the U.S. will win in the digital asset technology stack, which will continue to solidify the dollar's position.

Bessent stated that over 90% of stablecoins are backed by the U.S. dollar, and issuers often hold U.S. Treasury bonds as reserves. As adoption grows, the demand for such assets may rise, becoming a new source of financing for the federal government. He believes that stablecoins will open up new global markets rather than merely replacing existing dollars. Regarding the failure of the Clarity Act, Bessent expressed disappointment, but noted that the Treasury can work with the SEC and CFTC to advance regulation through institutional action. He also mentioned that regulatory best practices and safeguards can prevent crypto companies from being de-banked.