Rumble CEO Chris Pavlovski has hinted at the possibility of introducing a new Bitcoin tipping feature for content creators on the platform following a partnership with stablecoin issuer Tether. In a recent tweet, Pavlovski suggested that users may soon be able to tip their favorite creators using Bitcoin and USDT directly on Rumble. This move comes after Tether purchased 103.3 million shares of Rumble for $775 million, causing the company’s stock to rise by 76%.
The collaboration with Tether aims to strengthen Rumble’s financial position, support growth, and buy back up to 70 million shares for liquidity. Pavlovski emphasized the shared values of decentralization and free expression between Rumble and Tether, while Tether’s CEO Paolo Ardoino highlighted the partnership’s potential for promoting decentralization and exploring opportunities in cloud services, crypto payments, and advertising. The deal is set to close in Q1 2025, with Tether holding a minority stake and no involvement on the board.
The introduction of the proposed crypto tipping feature aligns with a broader trend among social media platforms to incorporate cryptocurrency payments. Platforms like Twitter and Twitch have already adopted similar features, allowing users and streamers to receive tips in Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. By leveraging crypto for tips, these platforms offer a more efficient and cost-effective alternative to traditional payment systems that come with processing fees.
In addition to the tipping feature, Rumble has also made headlines for its decision to allocate up to $20 million of its extra cash reserves into Bitcoin. This move mirrors the strategy of other large companies like MicroStrategy, which has been accumulating Bitcoin aggressively over the years. In fact, MicroStrategy recently purchased an additional 5,262 BTC for $561 million, bringing its total holdings to over 444,262 BTC. Rumble’s decision to invest in Bitcoin reflects a growing trend among companies to diversify their assets and hedge against inflation.
Overall, Rumble’s partnership with Tether and potential introduction of a Bitcoin tipping feature signal a strategic shift towards integrating cryptocurrency into their platform. By embracing crypto payments, Rumble aims to provide content creators with a more efficient and rewarding way to engage with their audience. With the backing of Tether and a growing interest in Bitcoin, Rumble is poised to become a significant player in the evolving landscape of social media and digital payments.
