Latin America-focused digital wallet provider Belo has successfully raised $14 million in a Series A funding round, led by prominent stablecoin issuer Tether and supported by notable investors including Titan Fund, The Venture City, Mindset Ventures, and G2. The funds will be utilized to fuel expansion into key markets such as Mexico, Chile, Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, and Paraguay, while bolstering the company's infrastructure and deepening its presence in Brazil, particularly among freelancers and remote workers who frequently conduct cross-border transactions.
Founded in Buenos Aires in 2021, Belo's digital wallet has garnered a significant user base of over 3 million individuals across Latin America. According to CEO Manuel Beaudroit, 'Having achieved three years of profitable operations and developed a product that is integral to people's daily lives, this funding round is focused on scaling our operations.' Stablecoins have gained considerable traction in emerging markets as a viable alternative to traditional banking systems, especially in regions plagued by high inflation, currency volatility, or limited access to dollar-denominated accounts. In Latin America, stablecoins are commonly used for storing value, sending remittances, and circumventing costly foreign exchange systems. Belo's innovative approach combines payments, foreign exchange, and cross-border transfers into a single, streamlined flow, leveraging crypto infrastructure to reduce friction and costs associated with moving money between countries.
The company's model is poised to capitalize on the growing demand for dollar-linked assets in the region, with Tether's backing underscoring the push to expand stablecoin-based payment systems. Beaudroit views Belo's strategy as part of a broader shift, where crypto tools are increasingly filling the gaps left by traditional finance, particularly in servicing individuals and businesses. As the company expands its regional footprint, it is also engaged in hiring efforts across product, engineering, and operations to support its growth.