Visa has partnered with Bridge, a stablecoin specialist acquired by Stripe, to launch cards that allow users to pay with stablecoins like USDT across Latin America. This innovation will initially roll out in Argentina, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, Peru, and Chile, with plans for global expansion.
Key Features of Visa's Stablecoin Card Program
- Seamless Integration: A single API connects card issuers to Bridge's stablecoin network, eliminating complex infrastructure requirements.
- Broad Acceptance: Cards work at 150+ million Visa merchants regionally.
- Auto-Conversion: Bridge instantly converts stablecoins to fiat at point-of-sale, enabling merchants to receive local currency.
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Why Latin America Leads Stablecoin Adoption
Visa's strategic focus aligns with regional demand driven by:
- Economic volatility in markets like Argentina and Venezuela
- Cross-border payment challenges
- Growing merchant acceptance of crypto solutions
Jack Forestell, Visa's Chief Product Officer, emphasized: "Our Bridge partnership integrates stablecoins safely into everyday commerce, giving users more control over their finances."
The Expanding Stablecoin Landscape
- Brazil: Itaú Bank recently announced plans for its own stablecoin
- Privacy-Focused Options: Projects like Aqua's Dolphin Card enable Bitcoin spending without KYC verification
How the Technology Works
When a Colombian customer pays with their Bridge-enabled Visa card:
- Stablecoin balance is deducted
- Bridge converts funds to pesos
- Merchant receives payment as standard fiat transaction
FAQ: Visa's Stablecoin Card Program
Q: Which countries will receive the cards first?
A: Argentina, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, Peru, and Chile in initial phase.
Q: Can merchants tell I'm paying with stablecoins?
A: No - they receive normal fiat payments just like any Visa transaction.
Q: What's the advantage over traditional debit cards?
A: Users preserve crypto holdings while accessing Visa's merchant network without manual conversions.
Q: When will this launch in Europe or Asia?
A: Visa plans expansions within 2025, following Latin American implementation.
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The Future of Stablecoin Commerce
As traditional finance embraces digital assets:
- 87% of Latin American businesses now accept crypto payments (2024 LatAm Crypto Commerce Report)
- Stablecoin transaction volume grew 210% year-over-year in the region
Visa's move signals a tipping point for cryptocurrency utility beyond speculation. With major players like Itaú Bank and now Visa entering the space, stablecoins are becoming indispensable tools for modern finance.
"Stablecoins emerged as economic crisis solutions - their real value shows in markets like Argentina and Venezuela," noted Tether's Paolo Ardoino. This Visa initiative proves that vision at scale.