Mastercard is reportedly considering a strategic investment in the blockchain infrastructure firm Zerohash. This follows the collapse of negotiations for an outright acquisition by the payments giant.

Previous reports suggested Mastercard was exploring a Zerohash acquisition valued at up to $2 billion.

A Zerohash spokesperson confirmed the company is not pursuing acquisition by Mastercard. Zerohash is evaluating a potential commercial partnership.

Zerohash leadership expects to remain independent. The firm believes this structure supports continued innovation and service to customers, including Interactive Brokers.