Mastercard has teamed up with cryptocurrency payments provider Mercuryo to introduce a euro-denominated debit card, allowing users to spend Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies directly from non-custodial wallets. This new card offers users the ability to pay for goods and services at any of Mastercard’s over 100 million merchants worldwide, without the need for an intermediary or exchange. By supporting non-custodial wallets, the card provides users with full control over their digital assets, eliminating the need to transfer funds to a centralized exchange before making purchases.
This initiative is part of Mastercard’s broader efforts to bridge traditional financial infrastructure with the rapidly evolving world of digital currencies, highlighting its commitment to incorporating Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies into its payment network. According to Christian Rau, Senior Vice President of Mastercard’s crypto unit, the card offers a secure, reliable, and easy way for consumers to spend their digital assets anywhere Mastercard is accepted.
The card’s features include the ability to spend directly from a self-hosted wallet, which means users maintain ownership of their assets throughout the transaction process. However, there are some fees associated with using the card, such as a €1.6 issuance fee, a €1 monthly maintenance fee, and a 0.95% transaction fee on purchases.
This launch demonstrates Mastercard’s commitment to expanding its presence in the cryptocurrency space, meeting the needs of a rapidly growing audience of users who prefer self-custody over relying on third-party intermediaries. By offering this card, Mastercard is positioning itself as a leading payment provider in the evolving crypto economy.