New Mastercard–Thunes Link expands global stablecoin transfers

Mastercard’s move to add stablecoin wallet payments through its global platform signals a move to accelerate digital payments, expand rapid cross-border options, and strengthen liquidity for institutions seeking seamless connections between traditional systems and emerging currency infrastructure around the world.

Mastercard advances digital payments with support for stablecoin wallets

The rapid shift to mainstream digital payments is accelerating as financial institutions ramp up efforts to connect traditional rails and stablecoin infrastructure. Payment giant Mastercard announced on November 13 that its Mastercard Move platform will incorporate stablecoin wallet payments through a partnership with cross-border network provider Tunes, expanding real-time funds transfer options for users around the world.

“As digital currencies become a larger part of global money transfers, this partnership with Toons strengthens our role as a trusted bridge between traditional and digital finance,” said Mastercard’s Pratik Kowala. “Mastercard Move already enables transfers in 150 currencies to over 10 billion endpoints (including accounts, cards, and cash),” he added, emphasizing:

This collaboration adds a stablecoin wallet to that mix. As digital currencies continue to grow, it’s all about giving end users more choice and unlocking new possibilities for banks and payment service providers.

Mastercard explained that integrating Toons’ Direct Global Network will enable regulated stablecoin payments around the clock, supporting faster payments and a wider range of currency options. “Working with Mastercard Move to enable stablecoin payments is another step in our mission to enable the next billion end users to participate in the global economy,” said Chloe Mayenobe of Thunes, highlighting that the Pay-to-Stablecoin-Wallet tool is designed to provide recipients with instant access to digital value.

read more: Mastercard enables stablecoin usage at 150 million merchants with Moonpay

The companies said the deal aims to expand payment endpoints for banks, non-bank financial institutions and funds transfer providers, strengthening corridors where money transfers are restricted by currency fluctuations and limited infrastructure. Executives argued that stablecoins’ liquidity and continued availability can enhance financial inclusion while complementing existing payment channels, which are already spread across more than 200 markets. Proponents of digital assets argue that regulated stablecoins can reduce friction in payments, expand business models and provide an alternative for financial institutions seeking efficient global payment solutions.

FAQ ⏰

• How might stablecoin payments impact global payment speed?
  It has the potential to accelerate cross-border remittances by enabling continuous and near-instantaneous payments across jurisdictions.
• Why are financial institutions considering regulated stablecoins?
  They want lower friction, predictable value, and efficient alternatives to traditional correspondent banking rail.
• What benefits can stablecoin liquidity bring to financial providers?
  This will expand payment flexibility, support new services, and help financial institutions manage volatility in emerging markets.
• How will stablecoin-enabled platforms impact financial inclusion?
  These have the potential to expand access to digital value for underserved users with limited infrastructure.