Crypto as Catalyst: IPSI's Insurance Subsidiary Integrates Real-Time, Blockchain Payments

Innovative Payment Solutions, Inc. (OTC: IPSI) has taken a significant step into the insurance sector by forming Astria Insurance Solutions Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary, to focus on insurance marketing, licensing, and crypto-enabled premium payments [according to reports]. The move, announced on Nov. 21, 2025, positions IPSI to integrate its fintech infrastructure with insurance services, leveraging real-time settlement, digital wallets, and blockchain-based payment rails [as reported]. Astria is negotiating to acquire a modern insurance marketing platform while preparing a Marketing and Services Agreement (MSA) with a licensed agency to generate immediate lead flow and revenue [according to company statements].

A key differentiator for Astria is its ability to accept premium payments in cryptocurrency, a capability enabled by IPSI's existing infrastructure [as reported]. This aligns with the broader industry trend of adopting crypto for financial transactions, as evidenced by IPSI's recent launch of a full-spectrum payments platform that includes real-time settlement and crypto rails [according to industry sources]. The platform, now in commercial deployment, supports 14 payment networks and 18 bank partners, enabling faster onboarding and automated underwriting for merchants [according to company announcements]. By integrating these tools into its insurance subsidiary, IPSI aims to cater to digital-first consumers and high-speed commercial clients [according to company reports].

Astria's strategy also involves obtaining state-by-state insurance licenses to operate as a direct producer across U.S. jurisdictions [as reported]. The subsidiary plans to bring on licensed professionals to navigate regulatory hurdles and eventually reactivate an in-house premium finance program for commercial and retail policyholders [according to company announcements]. CEO Bill Corbett emphasized the strategic value of merging payments, fintech, and insurance: "This move gives us new revenue streams immediately while building long-term value through licensing, technology acquisition, and premium-finance capabilities." [according to company statements]

The announcement comes as crypto lobbyists, including major industry players, seek regulatory clarity from the Trump administration to advance decentralized finance (DeFi) innovations [according to industry reports]. While not directly related to IPSI's insurance venture, the broader regulatory environment underscores growing institutional support for crypto adoption. For instance, lobbyists have pushed for tax guidelines that defer taxation on mining and staking rewards until assets are sold, a framework that could indirectly benefit crypto-enabled insurance models [as reported].

IPSI's expansion into insurance reflects its broader mission to bridge traditional banking and blockchain systems. The company's platform already supports real-time payments and instant payouts, which are critical for insurers seeking to streamline premium collection [according to company announcements]. By offering crypto-based payment options, Astria aims to attract niche markets, including online businesses and digital-native consumers, while adhering to compliance standards [as reported].

Further details on acquisition terms, licensing milestones, and rollout timelines remain pending, with updates expected as regulatory and operational steps are finalized [according to company statements]. For now, the initiative highlights the growing convergence of fintech and insurance, with crypto serving as a catalyst for innovation in premium payments and risk management [as reported].