Chainlink and Mastercard launch cryptocurrency purchase option for billions of cardholders

Chainlink and Mastercard launch cryptocurrency purchase option for billions of cardholders

A major change is afoot in the world of finance that could accelerate mass adoption of cryptocurrencies. Chainlink and Mastercard have announced a strategic partnership that will allow the global brand's more than three billion cardholders to begin purchasing cryptocurrencies directly through their bank accounts. The move represents a major shift in the merger between the traditional payments industry and the world of digital assets.

A new chapter for billions of users

The integration is being made possible through collaboration with several leading Web3 companies whose technology will ensure a compatible user experience. A key element is Chainlink's decentralized Oracle network, which provides a secure and transparent connection between traditional systems and the blockchain. The result is the ability for users with conventional payments to easily purchase cryptocurrencies directly "onchain" - that is, directly on the blockchain.

"Our goal is to make cryptocurrencies accessible to everyone, not just cryptocurrency enthusiasts or technical experts," said a Chainlink Labs spokesperson. "This integration will allow people who don't have experience with Web3 to access digital assets through existing payment tools."

A game-changing partnership

The successful implementation is due to collaboration with a number of companies, including Shift4 Payments, Swapper Finance, XSwap and ZeroHash. ZeroHash, for example, provides the infrastructure to convert fiat currencies into cryptocurrencies and provides liquidity, enabling smooth and secure transactions. This will allow users to easily transfer money from their regular bank account to digital assets.

"The current version of the app is designed to be simple and accessible, even for those who are just getting started with cryptocurrencies," Chainlink added.

Mastercard is heading into the crypto space

Mastercard has been actively involved in the world of cryptocurrencies in recent years. In 2025, it plans to expand its portfolio with cards that allow spending cryptocurrencies at merchants around the world. In April, for example, it announced a partnership with Kraken to launch crypto debit cards in Europe and the UK. The company is also working with MetaMask on its own cryptocurrency card.

According to February 2025 data, Mastercard has already tokenized 30% of its crypto transactions, demonstrating its serious interest in the sector.

The competition is not slowing down

However, it's not just Mastercard that sees potential in crypto transactions. Visa's main competitor partnered with Coinbase in October 2024, allowing users of the exchange to instantly deposit and withdraw cryptocurrencies. Additionally, Visa has invested in stablecoin platform BVNK and has begun to actively engage in the world of Web3.

The future is bright: Accessibility is the key

Buying cryptocurrencies with fiat currency can be complicated and often discourages mainstream users. But according to Raj Dhamodharan, executive vice president at Mastercard, people's interest in digital assets is growing. "People want easy access to the world of cryptocurrencies and digital assets. Our partnerships and innovations are designed to meet that goal," he says.

The move is an important milestone on the road to mass adoption of cryptocurrencies because it connects traditional payment infrastructure with modern blockchain technology. If these innovations can be successfully implemented, cryptocurrencies could become a common part of everyday payments.

Conclusion

The combination of Chainlink and Mastercard is revolutionizing the world of finance - enabling billions of people to buy cryptocurrencies securely and easily for the first time via their regular payment cards. This initiative could be a key step towards the full integration of digital assets into our everyday lives, moving cryptocurrencies from a niche technology to a commonly used means of payment.

*This is not an investment recommendation.

Coingarage team