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Visa has partnered with Bridge, a stablecoin platform owned by Stripe, to introduce stablecoin-linked Visa cards. This initiative aims to make crypto-backed payments as seamless as traditional card transactions, bridging the gap between cryptocurrencies and everyday financial activities.

What the Stablecoin Visa Cards Offer

The new Visa cards will allow fintech developers to issue crypto-backed payment options through a single API integration. These cards will draw from stablecoin balances, offering users a seamless experience for transacting in cryptocurrencies without compromising convenience or security.

Initial Launch in Latin America

The program is set to roll out in six Latin American countries: Argentina, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, Peru, and Chile. Through this initiative, users will be able to fund their cards with stablecoins, which are then converted into local fiat currencies at the point of sale. Merchants will receive payments in their local currencies, eliminating any direct exposure to cryptocurrency volatility.

“This is a massive unlock for developers. Everyone already knows how to use cards, and now everyone will be able to use stablecoins with just a tap,” said Zach Abrams, CEO of Bridge.

How It Works

With over 150 million Visa-accepting merchants globally, the new stablecoin-linked cards will make it easier for users to transact with cryptocurrencies in everyday scenarios. The process ensures that merchants seamlessly receive payments in their local currencies while consumers enjoy the benefits of crypto-backed payments.

Visa’s Vision for Stablecoin Integration

Jack Forestell, Visa’s Chief Product and Strategy Officer, highlighted the company’s commitment to securely integrating stablecoins into its global network. This step aligns with Visa’s broader strategy to provide consumers with more financial options and promote the adoption of digital assets in mainstream finance.

Support for Developers

Developers will benefit significantly from this integration. By using Bridge, they can programmatically manage card issuance and funds movement. Lead Bank serves as the financial partner for this initiative, ensuring compliance and operational efficiency.

Global Expansion Plans

Although the program is initially focused on Latin America, Visa and Bridge plan to expand the stablecoin card offering to Europe, Africa, and Asia in the coming months. This reflects the growing global interest in stablecoin-based payment solutions and their potential to revolutionize the financial ecosystem.

Key Benefits of Stablecoin-Linked Visa Cards

  • Seamless Payments: Users can make payments with stablecoins as easily as with traditional currencies.
  • Global Acceptance: Access to over 150 million merchants worldwide.
  • No Crypto Exposure for Merchants: Payments are settled in local fiat currencies.
  • Developer-Friendly: Simple API integration for fintech developers to issue cards and manage funds.

This collaboration underscores the increasing relevance of stablecoins in bridging the gap between cryptocurrencies and mainstream financial systems. As adoption grows, projects like these are set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of digital payments.

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