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Mastercard Open to Launching Own Blockchain, Views Crypto as "Payment Tech"

According to CEX.io, stablecoin transfer volumes hit $27.6 trillion in 2024, prompting Mastercard to integrate crypto cautiously while preserving fraud, compliance, and dispute protections across its network.

Fact Check
The provided evidence confirms both parts of the statement. Sources show Mastercard has launched its 'Multi-Token Network,' a proprietary blockchain-like infrastructure, and consistently describes its cryptocurrency initiatives as a strategy to expand payment choices for consumers and merchants, thereby treating crypto as payment technology.
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Summary

Mastercard is integrating cryptocurrency into its payments network with a focus on preserving fraud protection, compliance checks, and merchant familiarity. In a Sept. 2, 2025 interview with The Big Whale’s Grégory Raymond, Christian Rau, Mastercard’s head of crypto for Europe, said stablecoins can ease cross‑border settlements and reduce FX friction but cannot replace card‑network services like fraud protection or dispute handling. According to CEX.io, global stablecoin transfers reached $27.6 trillion in 2024, surpassing Visa and Mastercard combined. Mastercard is partnering with MetaMask, BitGet Exchange, and MoonPay to enable crypto payments that convert to fiat at the point of sale so merchants see a standard card transaction. Integrations with non‑custodial wallets required a smart contract check to verify funds availability in real time before processing. Mastercard processes about 5,000 transactions per second and emphasizes fraud, compliance, and dispute‑resolution systems as core value. Rau added the firm could consider a proprietary chain if existing solutions fall short.

Terms & Concepts
  • Stablecoin: A cryptocurrency designed to maintain a stable value, often pegged to a fiat currency, commonly used for transfers and settlements.
  • Non-custodial wallet: A crypto wallet where users control their private keys and funds directly, without relying on an intermediary.
  • Smart contract: Self-executing code on a blockchain that automatically enforces predefined rules; here used to verify funds in real time before payment.