Mastercard has unveiled a new Crypto Partner Program uniting more than 85 companies from the blockchain, fintech, and banking sectors to integrate digital assets into everyday payments. The initiative focuses on practical applications like cross-border transfers and business-to-business payments. Executives describe it as a bridge between on-chain innovation and traditional financial infrastructure.
Mastercard announced the Crypto Partner Program on March 11, 2026, bringing together over 85 firms including Binance, Circle, Gemini, PayPal, Paxos, Ripple, BitGo, and Crypto.com. The program aims to explore and develop on-chain technologies for use within existing payment systems, emphasizing areas such as cross-border remittances, B2B payments, and institutional settlements.
Raj Dhamodharan, Mastercard's executive vice president of Digital Asset Blockchain Products & Partnerships, stated that digital assets are entering a phase where blockchain solves real-world problems rather than operating in isolation. Sherri Haymond, executive vice president of Digital Commercialization, added that the initiative helps ensure innovations work alongside established payment frameworks. Participants will collaborate with Mastercard on product development, share expertise, and align on industry standards to create scalable, compliant solutions.
This builds on Mastercard's prior efforts, such as supporting crypto-linked cards and blockchain startups through its Start Path accelerator. The program positions Mastercard as a connector between crypto-native companies and traditional institutions, leveraging its network in over 200 countries. For instance, it enables issuing payment cards linked to crypto wallets and spending digital assets via Mastercard's merchant network.
The move reflects broader industry trends, with payment networks like Visa also testing stablecoin settlements. Mastercard's approach focuses on enhancing existing systems rather than replacement, addressing pain points like settlement delays in cross-border transactions. By fostering collaboration, the program seeks to accelerate responsible adoption of digital assets while maintaining trust and regulatory compliance.
PayPal, a key participant, is expanding its role through live tests for blockchain-based settlement in transportation finance and payment orchestration for retail cross-border flows. This integration highlights how digital assets can streamline global money movement without disrupting consumer habits.
