In a significant move for the cryptocurrency sector, Bitget Wallet has partnered with Mastercard and Web3 infrastructure provider Immersve to introduce a new crypto-linked payment card. This collaboration enables users to make seamless payments directly from their self-custody digital wallets at over 150 million merchants worldwide that accept Mastercard. The initiative aims to enhance the practicality and accessibility of digital assets in everyday transactions.
How the New Crypto Payment Card Works
The card utilizes Mastercard’s Digital First platform, allowing users to apply digitally and activate the card within minutes through the Bitget Wallet mobile app. It supports both online and in-person purchases, offering a streamlined experience for spending cryptocurrency.
Transactions are processed in real-time, with funds sourced directly from the user’s wallet via on-chain swaps or deposits. Immersve, a Mastercard-licensed issuer, handles the operational backend, converting cryptocurrency to fiat currency during transactions while complying with Mastercard’s legal and regulatory standards, including Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) protocols.
Key Features and User Benefits
The card introduces several user-focused features designed to improve convenience and encourage adoption:
- Global Accessibility: Accepted wherever Mastercard is recognized, spanning millions of physical and online retail locations.
- Real-Time Funding: Users can fund transactions instantly through the Bitget Wallet app using their cryptocurrency holdings.
- Optional Incentives: The program includes transaction-based rewards, yield earnings on idle wallet balances, and one-time bonuses for completing identity verification.
These features are tailored to create a user experience that rivals traditional financial products while incorporating the flexibility of digital assets.
Expansion Plans and Target Regions
The initial launch will focus on the United Kingdom and the European Union, with subsequent expansions into Latin America, Australia, and New Zealand planned in the near future. This phased approach allows the partners to adapt to regional regulatory requirements and market demands while scaling the solution globally.
The rollout reflects a growing trend of integrating blockchain technology into mainstream financial services, responding to increased consumer and merchant interest in practical crypto applications.
Leadership Insights on the Partnership
Executives from all three organizations emphasized the transformative potential of this collaboration.
Jamie Elkaleh, Chief Marketing Officer at Bitget Wallet, stated:
"Crypto payments should be as seamless and secure as traditional transactions. With this partnership, Bitget Wallet users can now pay with crypto anywhere Mastercard is accepted."
Scott Abrahams, Executive Vice President of Global Partnerships at Mastercard, added:
"Digital wallets are quickly becoming as ubiquitous as email addresses. We’re committed to working with innovative companies to make crypto transactions simple, secure, and accessible at scale."
Jerome Faury, CEO of Immersve, highlighted the bridging of traditional and decentralized finance:
"We’re bridging the gap between Web3 and traditional finance, allowing users to spend crypto as easily as they spend fiat—on a global scale."
The Bigger Picture: Crypto’s Move Toward Mainstream Utility
This partnership underscores a broader industry effort to enhance the real-world utility of cryptocurrencies. By combining Bitget Wallet’s self-custody expertise, Mastercard’s vast payment network, and Immersve’s regulatory and technical infrastructure, the collaboration aims to make digital assets a practical tool for daily commerce.
The ability to spend cryptocurrency seamlessly at mainstream merchants addresses a significant hurdle in crypto adoption, moving beyond investment and speculation into everyday use. For a deeper look at how crypto payment systems are evolving, you can explore advanced payment solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the crypto payment card work?
The card allows you to spend cryptocurrency directly from your Bitget Wallet at any Mastercard-accepting merchant. During a transaction, your crypto is converted to fiat in real-time, and the payment is processed through Mastercard’s network.
Is the card available worldwide?
The initial launch is focused on the UK and EU, with plans to expand to Latin America, Australia, and New Zealand soon. Availability will gradually extend to other regions based on regulatory compliance and market readiness.
What are the main benefits of using this card?
Users benefit from global acceptance, instant crypto-to-fiat conversion, and additional incentives like transaction rewards and yield on unused balances. It effectively bridges self-custodied crypto assets with everyday spending needs.
Are there any security measures in place?
Yes, the card operates under Mastercard’s security and regulatory framework, including KYC and AML checks. All transactions are settled on-chain with robust encryption and compliance protocols.
Can I use the card for online purchases?
Absolutely. The card functions like any other Mastercard for both online and in-person transactions, making it versatile for e-commerce and retail use.
How do I apply for the card?
Eligible users can apply digitally through the Bitget Wallet app. The process is designed to be quick, with activation possible within minutes after verification. To get started, discover seamless crypto spending tools.