Visa Expands Stablecoin Card Program to 100+ Countries, Testing Blockchain Settlement

Visa has announced plans to expand its stablecoin-linked card program to over 100 countries by the end of 2026. The initiative, a collaboration with Bridge, enables fintechs and businesses to issue payment cards backed by stablecoin balances. This allows cardholders to spend digital assets at 175 million merchant locations globally.

A key component of the expansion includes a pilot program with Lead Bank to test blockchain-based transaction settlement. This pilot aims to evaluate whether on-chain settlement can improve efficiency for financial institutions. Bridge's infrastructure is supporting the initiative, which involves direct stablecoin-based fund transfers.

Crypto wallet providers such as Phantom and MetaMask have already integrated Visa's stablecoin-linked cards. These partnerships are enabling millions of users to convert digital assets into everyday purchases. The expansion builds on the initial launch in 18 markets in 2025.

Why Is Visa Expanding Stablecoin Payments?

Visa's move aims to integrate stablecoins into its global payment network, maintaining relevance in the evolving financial landscape. By enabling businesses to issue cards backed by their own stablecoins, Visa is supporting new use cases like cross-border remittances and B2B money transfers.

The pilot program with Lead Bank is testing whether blockchain can reduce friction in settlement processes. Visa issuers and acquirers participating in the pilot will assess operational efficiency gains from on-chain reconciliation and faster fund transfers. This aligns with broader industry interest in using stablecoins for real-world spending rather than just on- and off-ramping.

How Does This Affect the Market?

Stablecoin transaction volume has already reached $33 trillion globally in 2025, with a 72% year-on-year increase. The market for stablecoin payments is still small at 0.02% penetration, indicating significant growth potential.

In emerging markets, demand for stablecoin cards is particularly strong. A survey found that 78% of low- and middle-income users are open to using stablecoin-backed cards. This suggests that the expansion could unlock new revenue streams in regions where traditional financial infrastructure is limited.

Stablecoin payments are increasingly commoditized, with major players like Meta focusing on distribution and user base rather than branded stablecoins. Visa's strategy aligns with this shift, aiming to control end-user relationships through scalable infrastructure.

What Are Analysts Watching Next?

Analysts are closely watching how the pilot program performs in terms of efficiency and adoption. If blockchain-based settlement proves successful, it could simplify reconciliation processes and reduce costs for financial institutions.

The expansion also tests Visa's ability to manage stablecoin activity on its existing payment infrastructure rather than alternative platforms. This could strengthen its position in both traditional and crypto markets.

Long-term, the integration of stablecoins into global commerce could drive the next wave of digital asset adoption. As of now, stablecoin-linked debit cards remain the fastest-growing segment, with 673% growth in transaction count since 2024.