TLDR
- Mastercard is integrating Web3 technologies into its global payment network.
- Christian Rau emphasizes that Mastercard’s strategy focuses on safe and compliant payments.
- The company does not plan to fully transition into a crypto-focused payment system.
- Mastercard is working with crypto firms like MetaMask, Bitget, and Kraken to enable crypto payments.
- Mastercard is observing stablecoins closely for their potential in improving cross-border transactions.
Mastercard’s Head of Crypto Europe, Christian Rau, recently shared insights into the company’s evolving approach to crypto. The firm has been increasingly integrating Web3 technology into its payment systems. Rau explained how Mastercard views crypto as a potential payment technology rather than a revolution.
Mastercard’s Focus on Safe and Compliant Payments
Christian Rau emphasized that Mastercard’s strategy remains unchanged after 50 years.
“We aim to enable people to pay and businesses to be paid safely,” he said.
The company’s focus will continue to prioritize compliance and security in payment systems.
🔵 Interview avec Christian Rau, responsable crypto Europe de @Mastercard
Mastercard s’intéresse de près aux crypto-actifs, mais sans rupture de cap
Dans un entretien avec @TheBigWhale_ détaille comment le groupe américain intègre progressivement cette technologie dans son… pic.twitter.com/VhZyB0kNhm
— Grégory Raymond 🐳 (@gregory_raymond) September 2, 2025
He added that crypto technology fits into this logic. However, Mastercard does not plan to transition into a crypto-based payment system completely.
“We are not trying to reinvent the system but to enhance it,” Rau stated.
Mastercard’s integration of Web3 technologies includes partnerships with crypto firms. Collaborations with MetaMask, Bitget, MoonPay, and Kraken have allowed Mastercard to integrate crypto into its payment network. These partnerships aim to enable crypto holders to make payments at offline and online stores.
The Company’s Stance on Blockchain and Crypto Payments
Rau revealed that Mastercard does not currently plan to build its own blockchain. However, he did mention that the company is open to the idea if existing solutions do not meet its needs.
“Interoperability with current systems is our priority, but we could consider building a blockchain if necessary,” he said.
Mastercard’s efforts to support non-custodial wallets have been more complex. Rau explained the technical challenges when working with wallets like MetaMask. The company created a smart contract architecture to verify funds in real time.
Mastercard’s work with crypto firms enables broader access to its payment network. These efforts allow users to spend crypto at over 150 million Mastercard merchant locations globally. The company is integrating crypto into its payments ecosystem without fundamentally changing its traditional approach.
Stablecoins and MiCA: Key to Mastercard’s Future Strategy
Mastercard has been closely observing the growth of stablecoins, seeing them as a useful payment tool. Rau highlighted stablecoins’ ability to enhance transaction speed and improve cross-border settlements. In fact, the total stablecoin transaction volume exceeded Mastercard’s total transaction volume in 2024.
“Stablecoins can reduce exchange rate risks and improve cross-border payments,” Rau explained.
Despite this, he emphasized that stablecoins cannot replace traditional financial systems. He stressed that stablecoins do not replace the dispute protection services Mastercard offers.
The European Union’s MiCA regulation plays a significant role in Mastercard’s crypto strategy. Rau noted that MiCA’s introduction could provide clear guidelines for crypto and stablecoin operations. He stressed the importance of regulatory clarity in enabling secure, compliant crypto transactions.
Partnerships with stablecoin issuer Circle and payment providers like MoonPay have strengthened Mastercard’s presence in the crypto space. With the MiCA framework, Mastercard is better positioned to expand its payment system while embracing emerging crypto technologies.
