Citigroup CEO Jane Fraser signaled during Tuesday's earnings call that the financial giant may issue its own stablecoin to advance digital payment solutions. "We're actively exploring the launch of a Citi stablecoin," Fraser told analysts, "though the tokenized deposit space represents perhaps our most significant focus area. This presents substantial opportunities for our institution."
Fraser further revealed that Citigroup is examining reserve management frameworks for stablecoins while developing custody solutions for crypto assets. The announcement came as Citigroup shares surged to their highest level since the 2008 financial crisis following stronger-than-expected second-quarter results.
The banking giant outperformed Wall Street forecasts and announced plans to repurchase at least $4 billion in stock, contributing to the equity rally. Fraser emphasized the strategic importance of digital assets, noting the institution's "considerable activity" in tokenization technologies that could redefine commercial banking infrastructure.
Market response remained bullish throughout Tuesday's trading session as investors rewarded Citigroup's dual strategy of shareholder returns and digital innovation. The proposed stablecoin initiative positions Citigroup alongside major financial institutions experimenting with blockchain-based settlement systems, potentially accelerating institutional adoption of digital currencies.