Rumble Challenges YouTube with Bitcoin Tipping

Rumble, a video-sharing platform, is set to launch Bitcoin tipping. The YouTube rival said the feature, supported by stablecoin issuer Tether, will be fully rolled out by December after ongoing pilot tests.

The integration highlights a shift in digital platforms embracing blockchain-based revenue tools. More online platforms are experimenting with crypto-based microtransactions to diversify income models. Rumble’s adoption signals that blockchain monetization is moving toward the mainstream creator economy.

Rumble, founded in 2013, gained early attention as a free‑speech alternative to YouTube. The platform attracted conservative‑leaning audiences and independent creators seeking fewer content restrictions.

The platform counted 51 million active users in Q2, and aims to empower creators with censorship-resistant payment options while diversifying its own crypto strategy after adding $25 million in Bitcoin reserves this year.

Speaking at the Plan B Forum in Lugano, Switzerland, CEO Chris Pavloski said the company is testing the feature with Tether before a phased launch, announced on October 24.

“We’re rolling it out over the next few weeks,” Pavloski confirmed.

Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino highlighted the significance of the initiative: “This could become one of the largest creator networks using Bitcoin and stablecoins.”

He added that crypto payments can protect creators from “debanking” risks while expanding financial access across emerging and developed markets.

The update follows Tether’s $775 million investment in Rumble last year, reflecting the deepening ties between the two firms. Rumble positions itself as an anti-censorship video platform, popular among conservative creators seeking alternatives to YouTube’s ad-driven model.

A historic first at @LuganoPlanB — @thevivafrei became the first creator tipped through the Rumble Wallet. Freedom meets finance