Mastercard has introduced a global crypto partner program that brings together more than 85 companies from the digital asset and payments sectors to explore blockchain based payment and settlement infrastructure. The initiative aims to connect cryptocurrency companies, financial institutions and payment providers as digital assets gain a stronger role in cross border transfers and financial services.
Participants in the program include major industry firms such as Binance, Circle, Gemini, Paxos, Ripple and PayPal. Blockchain networks and infrastructure providers including Polygon, Solana, Crypto.com, MoonPay, Fireblocks and the Canton Network are also involved.
Focus on Blockchain Payments and Cross-Border Settlement
The program will focus on developing products that combine blockchain technology with existing payment infrastructure. Key areas include cross-border money movement, settlement systems and commercial payments. Mastercard said digital assets are entering a phase where technologies once separate from traditional finance are increasingly used for practical financial applications.
Payment Networks Expand Digital Asset Integration
The initiative builds on Mastercard’s earlier digital asset efforts, including crypto partnerships and blockchain startup programs. Rival payment network Visa has also expanded its blockchain initiatives. The company previously launched a pilot enabling banks to pre-fund cross-border payments with stablecoins through its Visa Direct platform.
Visa has also broadened support for stablecoins operating on multiple blockchain networks, including Ethereum blockchain, Solana blockchain, Stellar network and Avalanche blockchain, highlighting the growing integration of blockchain technology into global payment systems.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency trading involves risk and may result in financial loss.