Bank of North Dakota to Launch State-Backed Stablecoin ’Roughrider Coin’ in 2026

North Dakota's state-owned bank is making a bold entry into digital finance with the planned launch of Roughrider Coin, a USD-backed stablecoin developed in partnership with payments giant Fiserv. The token, set to debut in 2026, will initially serve state-chartered banks and credit unions, aiming to modernize financial transactions within North Dakota's monetary system.

The stablecoin represents a first for U.S. state banking institutions, designed to maintain 1:1 parity with the dollar while facilitating interbank settlements, merchant payments, and cross-border remittances. Bank President Don Morgan framed the initiative as essential for maintaining relevance in an evolving global economy, noting digital assets now fall within the bank's traditional mandate of supporting commerce and industry.

Governor Kelly Armstrong endorsed the project as part of North Dakota's progressive financial strategy, though technical details about blockchain infrastructure and regulatory compliance remain undisclosed. The MOVE signals growing institutional acceptance of stablecoins as monetary instruments beyond private sector initiatives.