Tether's USDT just smashed through another milestone, hitting an all-time high supply of over $170 billion. If you're knee-deep in the crypto world—whether chasing meme tokens or building DeFi strategies—this isn't just a number; it's a signal of the stablecoin's unbreakable grip on the market.

The buzz started with a sharp post from Token Terminal, highlighting how USDT is ballooning across both EVM-compatible chains (think Ethereum and its kin) and non-EVM networks like Solana or Tron. For the uninitiated, EVM stands for Ethereum Virtual Machine—it's the tech backbone that lets smart contracts run smoothly on Ethereum and similar blockchains. Non-EVM chains? They're the speedy alternatives optimizing for lower fees and faster transactions, perfect for high-volume meme coin flips.

<Image src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/G1ELyqaXAAASe6y.jpg" alt="Line chart illustrating Tether's USDT outstanding supply growth from $0 in

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2018 to over $170 billion in 2024, with a steep upward trend in recent years" width={800} height={450} />

That chart tells the story: a steady climb since 2018, but the real rocket fuel kicked in around 2020. By 2024, USDT's supply has more than doubled in just a couple of years. Why does this matter for meme insiders like us? Stablecoins like USDT are the lifeblood of quick trades. When a hot meme token pumps on Solana, you're minting USDT to jump in without fiat friction. This surge means more liquidity sloshing around, fueling those wild rallies and dips we all love (or fear).

Diving deeper, Token Terminal's data shows balanced growth: EVM chains still dominate with their robust DeFi ecosystems, but non-EVM spots are catching fire thanks to lower costs. Tron, for instance, has become a USDT haven for global transfers, while Solana's speed makes it ideal for meme launches. It's like USDT is the universal adapter plugging into every blockchain socket.

But let's keep it real—stability in crypto is relative. Tether has faced its share of scrutiny over reserves, though recent attestations from firms like BDO aim to quiet the doubters. With $170 billion in circulation, USDT isn't just surviving; it's thriving, underscoring how stablecoins are evolving from trading tools to true cross-chain settlement layers.

For meme token hunters, this means one thing: more capital chasing the next big narrative. Whether it's a dog-themed gem on Base or a frog frenzy on Ethereum, USDT's expansion keeps the party going. Keep an eye on these chains— the next 10x could be brewing right where the liquidity flows.

What do you think—bullish on USDT's dominance, or time for challengers like USDC to step up? Drop your takes in the comments.