IMF Sounds Alarm: Stablecoins Could Undermine Monetary Power Worldwide

The International Monetary Fund voices a stern warning that the rapid rise of stablecoins-in particular, those pegged to foreign currencies like the US dollar-could accelerate "currency substitution" in many countries. As more consumers and businesses shift to using stablecoins for payments, savings, and cross-border transfers, domestic currencies may lose relevance. According to the IMF, this could undermine central banks' ability to control money supply, manage inflation, and maintain financial stability.

The IMF warned that the widespread use of dollar-linked stablecoins would deepen digital dollarization, reduce demand for local currencies, and erode a crucial source of revenue: seigniorage. This loss of monetary influence becomes most problematic in economically vulnerable regions already struggling with inflation or limited trust in financial institutions.

The Fund also warns that stablecoins can trigger volatile capital flows, create pressure on foreign-exchange markets, and amplify systemic risks—especially during large redemption events. Inconsistent global regulations mean stablecoin issuers could operate across borders with limited oversight, making it harder to enforce reserve transparency, redemption rights, and anti-money-laundering rules.

While the IMF recognizes stablecoins' potential to improve in the area of payments and remittances, it puts a greater emphasis on the need for tough regulation, high-quality backing of reserves, and consideration of the issuance of central bank digital currencies to safeguard monetary sovereignty. Overall, stablecoins promote innovation and risk-but with too little robust regulatory coordination, could shift financial power away from central banks and reshape global economic stability.

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