Atlas plans to launch USAFi, a regulated permissionless digital security backed by a Nasdaq-listed ETF, under Dubai’s VARA framework in Q3 2026. The project marks economist Nouriel Roubini’s first move into digital assets after years as one of crypto’s most prominent critics.
Key Takeaways:
Atlas plans to launch USAFi in Q3 2026 under Dubai VARA as an ETF-backed token.Nouriel Roubini backs USAFi, signaling growing institutional support for tokenization.USAFi will use Nasdaq-listed USAF reserves, targeting DeFi access and value preservation.USAFi is scheduled to launch in Q3 2026 under Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). Atlas said the token will be issued under VARA’s Asset Referenced Virtual Asset Rulebook.
ETF-Backed Token Targets Permissionless FinanceRoubini said his shift from criticism to participation reflects the difference between speculative tokens and assets backed by diversified reserves. He commented:
VARA has developed a framework that embraces responsible innovation while maintaining the transparency and investor protection that institutional markets require.
Atlas Pitches the ‘Technodollar’Atlas is an agentic, digital reserve infrastructure: AI runs the portfolio day to day within the rules our Investment Committee sets, the Committee makes the decisions, and we tokenize the instrument so it can be held and traded on chain.
