Bank of North Dakota to Launch Stablecoin for Local Banks

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The Bank of North Dakota is set to introduce a stablecoin called 'Roughrider Coin' to ten local banks in September, after state regulators approved the use of the cryptocurrency technology. The stablecoin is intended to facilitate instant money transfers and bank-to-bank transactions within North Dakota's banking system, rather than being bought and sold like Bitcoin or Ethereum.

Why it matters

As a state-owned bank, the Bank of North Dakota's move to adopt stablecoin technology is notable, as it represents one of the first examples of a government-backed financial institution embracing cryptocurrency. The 'Roughrider Coin' could serve as a model for other state-level banks looking to modernize their payment systems and increase transaction efficiency.

The details

The Bank of North Dakota's stablecoin, called 'Roughrider Coin', will be available for use by North Dakota banks and credit unions starting in September. Unlike cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, the 'Roughrider Coin' will not be bought and sold on open markets, but will instead be used solely as a payment mechanism within the state's banking system to facilitate instant money transfers and other transactions.

• The Bank of North Dakota is set to introduce 'Roughrider Coin' to local banks in September 2026.
• State regulators approved the use of stablecoin technology on Wednesday, March 26, 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Bank of North Dakota plans to make the 'Roughrider Coin' stablecoin available for use by local banks and credit unions starting in September 2026.