MoneyGram CEO: Stablecoins Increasingly Function Like the US Dollar in Payments

The chief executive of global remittance giant MoneyGram has stated that stablecoins are progressively being used in a manner that mirrors the function of the U.S. dollar within certain payment and transaction ecosystems. Anthony Soohoo, who leads the Dallas-based money transfer firm, shared his observations in an interview with The Block, highlighting a notable behavioral shift among users and the potential implications for the broader financial industry.

Stablecoins as a Payment Rail

Soohoo noted that within specific payment environments, stablecoins are no longer viewed solely as speculative digital assets but are increasingly treated as a reliable medium of exchange. This trend, he explained, is particularly visible in cross-border transactions and digital payment corridors where speed and cost efficiency are critical. The CEO added that if this trajectory continues, it could fundamentally alter how financial institutions perceive and integrate stablecoins into their operations.

MoneyGram, which processes billions of dollars in remittances annually, has been actively exploring blockchain-based settlement systems. The company has previously partnered with the Stellar Development Foundation to facilitate stablecoin settlements, allowing for faster and cheaper transfers compared to traditional correspondent banking networks. Soohoo’s latest comments reinforce the idea that stablecoins are evolving from a niche crypto product into a mainstream payment tool.

Implications for Financial Institutions

The executive’s remarks come at a time when regulatory clarity around stablecoins is gradually improving in several jurisdictions, including the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework and ongoing legislative efforts in the United States. Soohoo suggested that as stablecoin usage grows, traditional banks and payment processors may feel increasing pressure to adopt similar digital infrastructure to remain competitive.

He emphasized that the shift is not about replacing fiat currency entirely but about offering users more efficient options. Stablecoins pegged to the U.S. dollar, such as USDC and USDT, provide the stability of fiat with the programmability and speed of blockchain networks. This combination, Soohoo argued, makes them particularly attractive for high-volume, low-margin payment services like remittances.

What This Means for Consumers

For everyday users, the growing acceptance of stablecoins by major financial firms like MoneyGram could translate into lower fees, faster transfer times, and greater financial inclusion, especially for unbanked populations in developing countries. Soohoo pointed out that stablecoins can reduce reliance on expensive intermediary banks, making it cheaper to send money across borders.

However, he also acknowledged challenges, including regulatory uncertainty in some markets, volatility in the broader crypto ecosystem, and the need for robust consumer protection measures. The CEO stressed that adoption will depend on building trust through transparency and compliance.

Conclusion

MoneyGram’s CEO has provided a clear signal that stablecoins are gaining traction as a functional equivalent to fiat currency in payment contexts. His comments reflect a broader industry trend where digital assets are moving beyond investment vehicles and into practical, everyday financial applications. As regulatory frameworks mature and infrastructure improves, the line between traditional money and stablecoins may continue to blur, reshaping the future of global payments.

FAQs

Q1: What did the MoneyGram CEO say about stablecoins?
Anthony Soohoo stated that stablecoins are increasingly being used in a manner similar to the U.S. dollar within payment and transaction environments, potentially shifting how financial institutions view digital assets.

Q2: Why are stablecoins becoming popular for payments?
Stablecoins offer the stability of fiat currency combined with the speed and low cost of blockchain transactions, making them efficient for cross-border remittances and digital payments.

Q3: How might this trend affect traditional banks?
If stablecoin adoption continues, traditional banks and payment processors may need to integrate blockchain-based solutions to remain competitive, potentially leading to broader digital asset adoption in mainstream finance.