Tether’s direct redemption minimum is $100,000; Circle allows individual holders in the EEA to apply as well.

Tether International, issuer of USDT, requires a minimum of $100,000 for direct redemptions, with fees set at the greater of $1,000 or 0.1% of the redemption amount. In contrast, Circle Internet Group (NASDAQ: CRCL), issuer of USDC, operates institutional redemption via Circle Mint while offering a separate redemption process for individual holders in the European Economic Area. Direct redemption involves sending tokens back to the issuer for fiat under the issuer's terms, distinct from selling on secondary markets through exchanges, which is not subject to issuer minimums. The distinction matters because redemption terms affect liquidity and exit options for large holders, particularly during periods of market stress. Watch for whether other stablecoin issuers adjust their minimum thresholds or fee structures, and how EEA retail redemption access evolves under the EU's MiCA framework.