Mastercard announced a collaboration with BlackRock and Franklin Templeton. The partnership operates through the ADI Foundation, which manages the MENA region's first institutional Layer 2 blockchain. The initiative will leverage ADI Chain, a platform built specifically for compliance and regulatory alignment.
The primary goal is accelerating blockchain adoption across financial markets. This strategy focuses on developing institution-grade tokenized asset structures and enhancing distribution capabilities.
Mastercard will specifically advance blockchain-based payments and asset tokenization throughout the Middle East. Key initiatives include introducing stablecoin settlement, cross-border payment solutions, and digital asset rails to the region. All efforts must ensure alignment with regulatory frameworks.
This collaboration demonstrates growing institutional confidence in compliance-first blockchain architecture for the future of finance.