Mastercard is expanding its settlement network to include on-chain card settlements using regulated stablecoins like Circle’s USDC. This enhancement allows issuers and acquirers to settle transactions intraday, including weekends and holidays.
The system supports USDC and other stablecoins across the Ethereum, Solana, Polygon, and Base blockchains. Initial rollout begins in the United States and Latin America through partners Nuvei, Cross River, and CBW Bank.
Mastercard plans to expand the service globally throughout 2026. This integration aims to improve liquidity management and payment efficiency by embedding digital assets into mainstream financial infrastructure.