Itaú Unibanco Considers Launching Stablecoin Amid U.S. Regulatory Shifts

Highlights:

• Itaú Unibanco is considering launching a stablecoin pegged to the Brazilian real.
• U.S. regulatory shifts influence Brazil’s approach to stablecoin development.
• Itaú is waiting for clearer regulations in Brazil before proceeding with stablecoin plans.

Itaú Unibanco, a multinational bank and financial institution based in Brazil, is currently considering the idea of launching its stablecoin. This development is due to changes in the US stance toward the regulation of digital assets. As per the local report, Itaú plans to launch a stablecoin backed by the Brazilian real, which will benefit millions of the institution’s consumer base.

Currently, the bank is observing the global shift to stablecoins, which are digital assets linked to traditional currencies such as the dollar. Itaú’s interest demonstrates the uses of stablecoins expanding in the digital economy. The head of digital assets at Itaú, Guto Antunes, said that the bank has always considered stablecoins, but it is now focusing on the regulatory developments in the U.S. to move forward.

💥BREAKING:

BRAZIL’S LARGEST BANK ‘ITAÚ UNIBANCO’ EYES ITS OWN STABLECOIN.

THE STABLECOIN BOOM IS REAL! pic.twitter.com/ohm18RXIwc

— Crypto Rover (@rovercrc) April 3, 2025

Itaú’s Potential Move into Stablecoins

Stablecoins’ increasing adoption prompts Itaú Unibanco to assess areas in which these assets could be useful to its clients. The bank has specifically chosen the BRL as the reference for the stablecoin it wishes to develop. He stated that Itaú is constantly considering how the integration of a stablecoin could be beneficial to the firm.

He said:

“We are always ready to listen for our client whether it is logical to have a stablecoin—a reals one — within Itaú.”

As part of managing the risks, Itaú has also focused on its research of other banks’ experiences in integrating stablecoins into their operations. The bank has many uncertainties concerning Brazil and the U.S. and it is waiting for better regulation before it forms a final decision. This is important as stablecoins are still developing, particularly after regulatory developments emerged in the U.S.

U.S. Regulatory Influence on Brazil’s Financial Landscape

The U.S. regulatory environment has affected other international financial institutions, including Itaú Unibanco. Recently, the U.S. government has been keen on stablecoin regulation, especially with the passing of the STABLE Act, which lays down rules for USD-backed digital assets such as USDT and USDC. These changes are being watched by Itaú Unibanco, as they might influence how Brazil approaches stablecoins.

H.R. 2392, the Stablecoin Transparency and Accountability for a Better Ledger Economy (STABLE) Act of 2025 passed Committee 32-17. pic.twitter.com/pvzTOfTTr1

— Financial Services GOP (@FinancialCmte) April 3, 2025

Stablecoins have become paramount to the stability of the US dollar under the US regulatory framework. Therefore, for Itaú, stablecoins are an opportunity to offer more efficient and safer transactions for its clients. Antunes also noted that proper implementation of blockchain technology may have tremendous value in improving the financial systems through supporting atomic transactions.

Brazil’s Regulatory Landscape and Stablecoin Considerations

Itaú is also keen on the stances of the Brazilian regulatory bodies on stablecoins. Recently, the Brazilian National Monetary Council (CMN) decided to restrict pension funds from investing in cryptocurrencies due to their high risks. However, Itaú remains optimistic on the expansion of stablecoins in Brazil, particularly as the Central Bank of Brazil continues to engage in public consultations.

Antunes stated that even though some regulations may hinder the use of stablecoins, Itaú is open to solutions that blend regulation and innovation. For instance, he mentioned that self-custody stablecoin wallets can be regulated through a list approved by the central bank. This would enable the authorities to oversee transactions while encouraging the growth of stablecoins in Brazil.