Stablecoins Move Closer to Widespread Adoption Through Self-Custody Visa Card Breakthrough

Truther Unveils Non-Custodial USDT Visa Card in El Salvador

Truther, a company specializing in cryptocurrency payments, is preparing to introduce a non-custodial Visa card for USDT transactions in El Salvador on January 29, 2025. This launch represents a major advancement in enabling stablecoin holders to use their digital assets for everyday purchases.

Developed in collaboration with Visa, the new card allows users to pay directly from their self-managed wallets, eliminating the need to preload funds or depend on third-party custodians. This approach addresses privacy and control concerns that are common in the crypto community. The card operates on the Polygon blockchain, with plans to transition to the Liquid network to further enhance user privacy. Purchases are settled instantly, with the USDT amount deducted in real time from the user’s wallet.

Key Features and Benefits

• Direct spending from self-custody wallets—no preloading or custodial accounts required
• Full control over private keys and assets
• 2% fee on currency conversions, with the IOF tax waived for Brazilian users
• Real-time settlements via QR code payments and integration with Brazil’s PIX instant payment system

This card is designed for crypto enthusiasts who prefer to retain control over their digital assets and avoid converting to fiat or using centralized platforms. The service is particularly attractive to users in Brazil, where the crypto market is rapidly expanding.

Expansion Plans Across Latin America

Truther’s launch in El Salvador—a nation where bitcoin is recognized as legal tender—serves as a pilot for broader adoption throughout Latin America and beyond. After the initial rollout, the card will become available to all users. The company also plans to expand its Swapix API, which enables seamless crypto-to-fiat conversions, to additional countries including Argentina, Mexico, Colombia, and Russia, focusing on regions with robust, round-the-clock payment systems.

Visa’s Push Toward Stablecoin Integration

This initiative is part of Visa’s ongoing strategy to incorporate stablecoins into its global payment network. Truther’s existing infrastructure already processes $40 million in daily transactions by connecting stablecoins like USDT to local payment rails. The partnership aligns with Visa’s broader exploration of digital currencies, including pilot programs for stablecoin payouts to freelancers and content creators. For Truther, this collaboration highlights the growing potential for stablecoins to serve as a mainstream payment method, especially in areas with limited banking services or high inflation rates.

Future Developments and Regulatory Considerations

Looking forward, Truther plans to add support for more local stablecoins, such as tether gold and an Argentine peso-linked token, by early 2025. The wallet will also enable QR code-based payments and allow users to receive stablecoins without incurring gas fees, making it even more practical for daily transactions. Founder Rocelo Lopes expects stablecoin transaction volumes to triple within a year, fueled by increasing interest from traditional financial institutions. As governments introduce stricter crypto tax regulations worldwide, Truther’s decentralized, non-custodial approach may provide a compliant yet independent alternative to conventional banking systems.