TLDR
- Visa partners with Bridge to launch stablecoin cards in 18 countries.
- Expansion targets 100+ countries, connecting crypto wallets to retail payments.
- Lead Bank joins Visa’s stablecoin settlement pilot on blockchain rails.
- Bridge’s blockchain infrastructure enables faster, compliant settlements.
- Visa strengthens digital asset adoption amid global payments innovation.
Visa Inc. (V) shares traded at $317.02, down 1.09% intraday, as the company advanced its stablecoin card expansion. The payments network widened its partnership with Bridge to scale stablecoin-linked cards globally. Visa aims to extend the product to more than 100 countries by year end.
Visa Expands Stablecoin Card Reach Beyond 100 Countries
Visa extended its stablecoin-linked card issuance program through Bridge, a Stripe subsidiary. The companies now offer the cards in 18 countries across multiple regions. They plan broader coverage across Europe, Asia Pacific, Africa, and the Middle East.
Bridge enables fintech firms to issue Visa cards backed by stablecoin balances. Consumers can spend those balances at over 175 million merchant locations. The cards connect crypto wallets with traditional retail payment infrastructure.
The program focused on Central and South America. The latest expansion shifts toward a global rollout strategy. Visa strengthens its digital asset footprint through structured regional growth.
Stablecoin Settlement Pilot Moves Onchain With Lead Bank
Visa also advanced its stablecoin settlement pilot with participating issuers and acquirers. Lead Bank joined the initiative and uses Bridge’s blockchain infrastructure. The pilot allows selected partners to settle transactions using stablecoins on supported networks.
The program evaluates operational efficiency and reconciliation through blockchain rails. It also tests faster fund movement compared with conventional settlement channels. Visa integrates onchain settlement while maintaining compliance standards.
Stripe acquired Bridge for $1.1 billion and expanded its digital asset services. Bridge secured conditional approval for a national bank charter from the OCC. That approval allows custody services, stablecoin issuance, and reserve management.
Stablecoin Infrastructure Gains Traction Across Payments Sector
Visa’s collaboration with Bridge reflects broader industry adoption of blockchain payments. Payment firms increasingly test stablecoins for remittances, payroll, and commerce. Regulatory developments in the United States encourage structured experimentation.
The companies also assess support for Bridge-issued assets in future payment flows. That review may introduce alternative settlement pathways within Visa’s network. Visa continues integrating programmable digital assets into its global framework.





