Visa has partnered with Bridge, a Stripe-owned platform, to introduce stablecoin-linked Visa cards, streamlining crypto-backed payments. This collaboration allows fintech companies to issue Visa cards linked to stablecoin balances through a single API integration. Initially launched in six Latin American countries—Argentina, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, Peru, and Chile—the program aims to integrate stablecoins into everyday transactions.

The partnership simplifies multi-country stablecoin card issuance, enabling developers to manage card programs across different countries through a unified API. This eliminates the complexities of establishing separate relationships with various banks in each target market. The Visa cards convert crypto balances into local currencies at the point of sale, allowing consumers to use stablecoins at over 150 million Visa-accepting merchants globally.

Visa’s global head of growth products and strategic partnerships, Rubail Birwadker, emphasized that these cards function identically across 180 countries, facilitating seamless transactions worldwide. Bridge’s CEO, Zach Abrams, highlighted the significance of stablecoins as fundamental financial infrastructure, bridging traditional financial systems with tokenized technologies.

Latin America is the initial focus due to significant regional interest in stablecoins. Countries like Argentina, with its currency volatility, see stablecoins pegged to the U.S. dollar as a reliable alternative. Visa and Bridge are working with Lead Bank to ensure regulatory compliance and consumer protection.

Following the Latin American launch, Visa and Bridge plan to expand into Europe, Africa, and Asia. Jack Forestell, Visa’s chief product and strategy officer, confirmed the company’s readiness to broaden stablecoin-based solutions globally, moving beyond pilot programs. Recent developments, including potential stablecoin legislation in the U.S. and structured rules in Europe (MiCA), support broader industry adoption.

Other financial giants like Mastercard and fintech platforms like Robinhood and Revolut are also exploring stablecoin-based services. The global stablecoin market is projected to exceed $500 billion in the coming years, driving traditional institutions to innovate in this space.

Visa’s stablecoin launch through Bridge aims to redefine the future of payments, offering a user-friendly approach in regions where inflation affects local currencies. This initiative highlights the potential of stablecoins to become mainstream tools for global commerce, enabling secure, fast, and borderless transactions.