Mastercard to Acquire BVNK for $1.8B to Expand Digital Asset Payment Infrastructure

• Mastercard will acquire BVNK for up to $1.8B to expand its digital asset payment infrastructure.
• The deal aims to connect stablecoin systems with traditional fiat payment networks globally.
• BVNK’s presence in 130+ countries strengthens Mastercard’s cross-border payment capabilities.

Mastercard has agreed to acquire BVNK for up to $1.8 billion, including $300 million in contingent payments. The deal, announced today, aims to expand digital asset payment infrastructure. It follows failed merger talks between BVNK and Coinbase earlier this year.

Mastercard said the acquisition will strengthen its digital currency capabilities across multiple payment rails. The company aims to connect traditional fiat systems with blockchain-based transactions.

According to the announcement, the deal supports end-to-end value movement across currencies and regions. BVNK’s infrastructure already enables payments across major blockchain networks.

The startup operates in more than 130 countries, offering services for sending and receiving stablecoin payments. This reach complements Mastercard’s global payment network.

Mastercard stated that stablecoin use cases continue to grow across payments and finance. These include cross-border transfers, business payments, and peer-to-peer transactions. The company noted that digital currency payments reached at least $350 billion in volume in 2025.

However, it said infrastructure must connect seamlessly with existing fiat systems. By integrating BVNK, Mastercard aims to improve interoperability between on-chain and off-chain systems. This approach focuses on security, compliance, and reliability.

Jorn Lambert, Mastercard’s Chief Product Officer, said financial institutions increasingly plan to offer digital currency services. He added that the company aims to support these services with compliant infrastructure.

BVNK CEO Jesse Hemson-Struthers said the partnership combines complementary capabilities in digital payments. He noted that current developments only represent early progress in the sector.

The companies said the combined platform will remain chain-agnostic. This allows users to access services without being limited to specific blockchain ecosystems. Mastercard also highlighted its broader digital asset strategy, including its Crypto Partner Program.

This initiative focuses on collaboration across the payments industry. The transaction is expected to close before year-end, pending regulatory approval and standard conditions.