Transforming Transactions. Shaping the Frontier of Payments and Settlement Networks

Traditional payment systems face significant inefficiencies, particularly in cross-border transactions, with outdated technology like SWIFT messaging and fragmented systems

Current crypto payment solutions face adoption challenges due to complex user experiences (like requiring MetaMask) and lack of consumer protections compared to traditional card payments

On-ramp/off-ramp fees for crypto transactions are currently excessive (200-300 basis points), largely due to limited competition and risk premiums

Mastercard and Visa are increasingly collaborating with fintech and crypto companies, making network access easier and enabling crypto card solutions

Crypto cards are emerging as a bridge between digital assets and everyday spending, allowing users to spend crypto while transactions occur in fiat

Cross-border payments show the most immediate potential for blockchain technology adoption, especially in regions with less developed payment infrastructure

Consumer protection mechanisms need development in crypto payments, possibly through DAO-based insurance or smart contract solutions

CBDCs (Central Bank Digital Currencies) development lacks coordination between countries on underlying technology and standards

Smart accounts and programmable payments are improving wallet experiences and enabling better user protections

The technology could significantly reduce transaction costs from current 2% to around 0.1% for cross-border payments