13-2-2025 – Mastercard, the global payments giant, has revealed that it successfully tokenized 30% of its transactions in 2024, marking a major step in its efforts to modernise financial services. The company also acknowledged the disruptive potential of stablecoins and cryptocurrencies in reshaping the traditional financial landscape.
In its annual filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Mastercard detailed its advancements in payment innovation. The report highlighted its work in tokenizing transactions, enabling blockchain-based business models, and streamlining digital asset access.
“Through a principled approach—including prudent risk management and continuous monitoring of our digital asset market partners—we remain committed to supporting blockchain ecosystems and digital currencies,” Mastercard stated in the filing.
Mastercard outlined its partnerships with key cryptocurrency industry players, allowing consumers to buy digital assets using their cards and spend balances at supported merchants worldwide. The company’s move towards integrating digital currencies into its ecosystem aligns with its broader strategy of adapting to evolving financial technologies.
Alongside its innovations in digital payments, Mastercard reported strong financial growth, with net revenue reaching $28.2 billion in 2024—a 12% increase from the previous year.
Mastercard acknowledged that stablecoins and cryptocurrencies are emerging as viable competitors in the payments industry, with the potential to challenge traditional financial products. The company noted that as regulatory frameworks develop, these digital assets could gain wider adoption due to their efficiency, accessibility, and immutability.
In the US, legislators are actively working on regulatory measures to manage stablecoins and reinforce the dollar’s position in global finance. US Representatives French Hill and Bryan Steil recently introduced a draft bill proposing a regulatory framework for stablecoin oversight.
Stablecoins have already demonstrated their impact on the payments industry. According to data from crypto exchange CEX.io, stablecoin transaction volumes in 2024 reached a staggering $27.6 trillion, surpassing the combined volumes processed by Visa and Mastercard.
One key factor contributing to the surge in stablecoin transactions is the increasing role of automated trading bots. CEX.io lead analyst Illia Otychenko explained that while bot-driven transactions account for a significant portion of stablecoin volume, this activity is not artificial. Instead, bots are instrumental in enhancing market efficiency by facilitating seamless transactions at high speeds.
