Tether invests $15 million in AI agent payment infrastructure
Tether, the issuer of the world's largest stablecoin USDT, has led a $15 million funding round for U.S. fintech startup Mural. The funds will support the development of infrastructure that enables AI agents to independently execute payments on behalf of individuals and businesses.
According to CoinDesk, the Series A round also included North Island Ventures and Mural's existing investors. Following the latest funding, the New York-based startup has raised a total of $28 million.
Mural was founded by former Palantir engineers. The company develops infrastructure that connects traditional banking systems with blockchain networks. Its solutions allow fintech platforms to manage accounts, process payments, verify customer identities, and comply with regulatory requirements. Its customers include payroll and HR platform Deel and browser developer Opera.
How AI agents will manage payments independently
Tether's investment is linked to the development of so-called agentic finance, an emerging field in which artificial intelligence can not only analyze information but also independently initiate and execute financial transactions.
For example, an AI agent could pay for services, transfer money to suppliers, or carry out other transactions on behalf of a user without requiring a separate instruction each time. However, this approach introduces new risks related to fund security and transaction oversight.
To address these challenges, Mural offers payment management tools. Companies can set transaction limits, restrict counterparties, and require additional approval for larger transfers. These controls help oversee autonomous systems and reduce the risk of unauthorized payments.
“As agents start moving money, that connection to the banks, payment networks and compliance systems the world still runs on becomes essential,” Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino said.
For Tether, the investment in Mural represents another step in expanding its business beyond stablecoin issuance. The company is showing growing interest in payment infrastructure, particularly solutions that enable financial transactions to be automated using artificial intelligence.
From Bitcoin mining to smart mattresses
Tether is actively investing across a wide range of industries, gradually expanding beyond the cryptocurrency business. The company has invested in Bitcoin mining, artificial intelligence, agriculture, robotics, and even football clubs. Its investments include mining company Bitdeer, agricultural group Adecoagro, and Italian football club Juventus. As a result, the USDT issuer is gradually evolving into a major investment group with interests extending far beyond digital assets.
One of Tether's most unusual investments has been Eight Sleep, a U.S. company developing smart sleep systems. In March 2026, Tether led a $50 million funding round that valued the startup at $1.5 billion. Eight Sleep produces high-tech mattresses and accessories equipped with sensors that monitor sleep patterns and automatically adjust temperature. The investment also involves collaboration on AI technology aimed at making these devices even more personalized.
As a reminder, Tether is also investing in Saber Money to strengthen payment networks.
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