Northern Mariana Islands’ Tinian embraces digital currency and online gambling regulation

In May 2025, the island of Tinian in the Northern Mariana Islands made headlines by passing groundbreaking legislation that allows the local government to issue its own digital currency, called the “Tinian Stable Token.” This bold move aims to position Tinian as a leader in the use of blockchain technology within government operations. The legislation also gives the government the power to license internet casinos—a form of a digital gambling platform where users can play games like poker, slots, and roulette online using real or virtual currency—a step intended to boost the island’s economy by attracting new businesses and tourists.

This journey was not without its road bumps. Earlier in April, former Governor Arnold Palacios (R) vetoed the bill, expressing concerns about potential risks linked to digital currencies and online gambling. In his veto letter, he cautioned that the measure “presents several legal issues and may be unconstitutional”. He noted it would regulate activities that could not “be clearly restricted” to Tinian and lacked enforcement mechanisms to combat illegal gaming. Despite the governor’s objections, the Tinian Municipal Council stood firmly behind the legislation. On May 15, the council voted 14-2 to override the governor’s veto, officially approving the bill. This override demonstrates strong local support for the initiative and highlights the council’s commitment to exploring new economic opportunities for the island.

Unlike cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, which can be highly volatile, a stablecoin is designed to maintain a steady value by being pegged to an asset like the US dollar. This means its value is directly tied to and backed by a fixed amount of USD, helping reduce price fluctuations. This stability makes it more practical for everyday transactions and government use. By issuing the Tinian Stable Token, the local government hopes to create a secure, efficient, and transparent system for payments, fees, and other financial transactions within the island.

Licensing internet casinos is another key component of the new law. The Northern Mariana Islands, including Tinian, have already developed a reputation for hosting online gaming operations due to their legal status as a US territory. Expanding and formalizing this sector through the new legislation will hopefully bring additional revenue, create jobs, and stimulate tourism. Proponents argue that the combined approach of adopting digital currency and regulating online casinos will modernize Tinian’s economy and provide a more stable financial foundation for the community. 

“You have a chance to attract billions of dollars of investment and tax revenue from the fastest growing segment of the financial technology industry,” said Vin Armani, CTO of Marianas Rai Corporation, during the Tinian House debate on May 15, highlighting how digital currency and regulated online casinos could modernize the economy.

However, concerns remain. Governor Palacios’s veto reflected worries about the risks of digital currency adoption, such as fraud, money laundering, and potential negative social impacts linked to gambling. These are valid points, and the council has pledged to implement strict oversight and safeguards. The legislation outlines licensing requirements, compliance monitoring, and reporting mechanisms to minimize abuses and protect consumers. Experts from the region and beyond will possibly be involved in ensuring the new systems operate safely and transparently.

Tinian’s approval of stablecoin legislation and internet casino licensing marks a significant step toward economic innovation, reflecting a broader trend among smaller territories exploring blockchain and digital tools for development. By overriding the governor’s veto, local leaders signaled a strong commitment to diversifying the island’s economy and embracing emerging technologies. If successfully implemented, this initiative could bring new opportunities for residents and position Tinian as a pioneer in digital governance and online gaming regulation. This will potentially set a precedent for other Pacific Islands facing similar economic challenges.