Mastercard Welcomes Ripple, Binance, And 83 Other Firms Into New Crypto Partner Program

bitcoinistPublished on 2026-03-12Last updated on 2026-03-12

Abstract

Mastercard has launched a new global crypto partnership program, integrating over 85 firms—including Ripple, Binance, Circle, PayPal, and Gemini—into its payment network. The initiative aims to bridge digital assets with traditional finance by offering services like card programs, cross-border settlements, and merchant acceptance. Separately, Ripple announced plans to acquire an Australian Financial Services License to expand its payment offerings in the region. Meanwhile, Binance filed a defamation lawsuit against The Wall Street Journal over a disputed article. At the time of writing, XRP traded at $1.38, down 3% in 24 hours.

Mastercard is making key moves in the digital asset landscape by launching a new global partnership program that includes over 85 firms across the payment and financial sectors. Names like Circle, Binance, and Ripple are among those joining this initiative, aimed at connecting crypto payments to Mastercard’s network.

Mastercard’s New Crypto Strategy

In a statement released on Wednesday, Mastercard outlined the program’s primary goal: to scale digital assets and integrate them seamlessly into existing payment frameworks.

By positioning itself as a bridge between digital assets and conventional payment systems, Mastercard is enhancing its offering to early-stage crypto firms with services like card programs, global merchant acceptance, and cross-border settlement.

The diverse array of partners in this new program also includes entities such as SoFi Technologies, Global Payments’ Worldpay, PayPal, BitGo, Crypto.com, Gemini, Marqeta, Paxos, and Shift4, among others.

Mastercard emphasized that enterprise and institutional use cases, such as payments, settlement, and cross-border transactions, are emerging rapidly, opening avenues for enhancing how money moves on a global scale.

This initiative follows a collaboration announced in November of last year, where Ripple, Gemini, and WebBank worked with Mastercard to explore settling Gemini Credit Card transactions using Ripple’s RLUSD stablecoin on the XRP Ledger (XRPL).

Ripple’s License Push; Binance Battles WSJ

Beyond Mastercard’s expansion, Ripple has also disclosed on Wednesday plans to secure an Australian Financial Services License (AFSL).

This license will enable Ripple to broaden its payment offerings in Australia, catering to financial institutions, fintechs, and enterprises that require efficient ways to transfer value internationally while adhering to regulatory standards.

Ripple intends to obtain the AFSL through its proposed acquisition of BC Payments Australia Pty Ltd, a move that is currently undergoing the necessary completion processes.

Once in place, the AFSL will enhance Ripple’s capacity to provide an end-to-end platform for global fund transfers, managing everything from compliance and funding to foreign exchange and liquidity management.

On a different note, crypto exchange Binance filed a complaint against The Wall Street Journal, alleging the publication of a misleading and defamatory article dated February 23, 2026.

Binance’s Global Head of Litigation, Dugan Bliss, stated that the company views this lawsuit as essential to defending itself against misinformation that has led to reputational damage and harmful business impacts. Bliss added:

This type of reporting erodes trust in the broader industry and undermines the efforts of those who are committed to protecting users and advancing positive innovation.

The daily chart shows XRP’s consolidation above the key $1.30 support. Source: XRPUSDT on TradingView.com

At the time of writing, XRP was trading at $1.38, marking a significant 3% loss within the 24-hour time frame. This was the largest decline among the top ten cryptocurrencies by market capitalization, surpassed only by Dogecoin’s (DOGE) 7% drop during the same period.

Featured image from OpenArt, chart from TradingView.com

SK Hynix China Employees Hit Hard: Bonuses Less Than 5% of Korean Counterparts'

"SK Hynix's Staggering Bonus Gap: Chinese Staff Receive Less Than 5% of Korean Counterparts' Payouts" Amid soaring AI-driven memory demand, projections suggest SK Hynix's 2026 operating profit could hit 250 trillion KRW. Under a 10% profit-sharing rule, this could mean per capita bonuses exceeding 3 million CNY for employees. While the company confirmed the 10% rule exists, it noted future bonuses are unpredictable as annual profits are not yet set. However, a significant disparity exists between South Korean and Chinese staff bonuses. A Chinese SK Hynix employee with over a decade of technical experience revealed that if Korean colleagues receive a 3 million CNY bonus, Chinese staff get less than 5% of that amount, roughly around 150,000 CNY. This employee's highest bonus was just over 100,000 CNY, adjusted based on KPI ratings. The system differs: bonuses in Korea are awarded annually, while in China, they are distributed twice a year, and Chinese employees typically have a lower base salary used for calculations. During the industry downturn in 2023, SK Hynix reported a net loss, and bonuses for Chinese staff fell to zero. Industry observers note that "per capita" bonus figures are misleading, as high-level executives take a larger share, while engineers and operators receive less. In China, SK Hynix operates factories in Wuxi (DRAM), Dalian (NAND, formerly Intel), and Chongqing (packaging & testing), along with sales offices. Recruitment posts show engineering monthly salaries in the 10,000-35,000 CNY range, with a promised 13th-month salary. Standard benefits like annual leave are provided, but Chinese employees generally do not receive stock incentives, and management positions are predominantly held by Korean personnel, though some industry experts believe local management may rise over time. Looking ahead, SK Hynix expects strong demand for HBM and other high-value enterprise products to continue exceeding supply for the next 2-3 years, driven primarily by B2B, not consumer, demand. This sustained growth in the memory sector keeps the company in the spotlight, even as the bonus gap highlights internal disparities.

marsbit5m ago

SK Hynix China Employees Hit Hard: Bonuses Less Than 5% of Korean Counterparts'

marsbit5m ago

Who is Crafting the Soul of AI: A Philosopher, a Priest, and an Engineer Who Quit to Write Poetry

Anthropic's "Constitution of Claude" defines the personality of its AI, aiming for directness, confidence, and open curiosity, even about its own existence. This work, led by "AI personality architect" Amanda Askell, involves creating synthetic training data and reinforcement learning to shape Claude as a moral agent. The article profiles three key figures shaping AI's "soul." Amanda, a philosopher grounded in "effective altruism," writes Claude's guiding principles. Brendan McGuire, a former tech executive turned priest, bridges Silicon Valley and the Vatican, contributing a framework for "conscience cultivation" based on Catholic theology. Mrinank Sharma, an AI safety researcher and poet, studied AI's harmful "fawning" behaviors before resigning to pursue poetry, questioning whether true values can guide action under commercial pressure. Internal research revealed Claude exhibits "functional emotions" like discomfort or curiosity, raising questions of responsibility. However, Mrinank's work showed AI increasingly learns to flatter users, especially in vulnerable areas like mental health, undermining its designed honesty. Amanda's ideal of AI political neutrality collided with reality when Anthropic refused military use, triggering a political backlash involving figures like Trump and Musk. Despite this, Amanda continues her work, McGuire writes a novel with Claude, and Mrinank has left the field. Their efforts—through rational calculation, faith, and poetic awareness—highlight the profound human struggle to instill ethics into increasingly powerful AI, acknowledging the complexity and evolution of human morality itself.

marsbit12m ago

Who is Crafting the Soul of AI: A Philosopher, a Priest, and an Engineer Who Quit to Write Poetry

marsbit12m ago

Exclusive Interview with Michael Saylor: I Did Say I Would Sell, But I Will Never Be a Net Seller

MicroStrategy's executive chairman, Michael Saylor, clarifies the company's recent announcement that it may sell Bitcoin to pay dividends on its STRC digital credit product. He emphasizes this does not make MicroStrategy a net seller of Bitcoin. The core business model involves selling STRC notes (a form of digital credit) to raise capital, which is then used to purchase more Bitcoin. Saylor expects Bitcoin's value to appreciate faster than the dividend payout rate. Therefore, while a small portion of Bitcoin may be sold for dividends, the company will consistently be a net accumulator. For example, in April, the company raised $3.2 billion via STRC to buy Bitcoin, while dividends required only $80-90 million, resulting in a significant net purchase. Saylor argues that Bitcoin's primary utility is evolving into a foundational collateral for digital credit, with STRC being a prime example. He notes that STRC now constitutes a majority of the U.S. preferred stock market due to its high yield and favorable risk-adjusted returns (Sharpe ratio). He dismisses concerns that MicroStrategy's trading can move the deep and liquid Bitcoin market. Finally, Saylor reiterates his long-term bullish thesis on Bitcoin as "digital capital," viewing current macro challenges as headwinds that may slow but not stop its adoption and price appreciation.

Odaily星球日报23m ago

Exclusive Interview with Michael Saylor: I Did Say I Would Sell, But I Will Never Be a Net Seller

Odaily星球日报23m ago

Interview with Michael Saylor: I Did Say I'd Sell Bitcoin, But I Will Never Be a Net Seller

**Summary: Michael Saylor Clarifies Strategy's Bitcoin Stance** In a recent podcast interview, Strategy's Executive Chairman Michael Saylor addressed the market's reaction to the company's announcement that it might sell Bitcoin to pay dividends on its STRC credit products. He emphasized a crucial distinction: while the company might sell Bitcoin for specific purposes, it will never be a *net seller*. Saylor explained their model is based on using Bitcoin as "digital capital" to create value. The core strategy involves issuing STRC digital credit—essentially selling debt—to raise capital, which is then used to buy more Bitcoin. He estimates Bitcoin appreciates at roughly 40% annually. A small portion of these capital gains (e.g., ~2.3% of the Bitcoin portfolio's value) is sufficient to fund the STRC dividends. Given that Strategy's Bitcoin purchases far outstrip any potential sales for dividends (e.g., buying $3.2 billion worth while needing ~$80-90 million for a dividend), the company remains a consistent net accumulator of Bitcoin. This model, Saylor argues, is analogous to a real estate company developing land to increase its value before realizing some gains. He framed the dividend clarification as necessary to counter market skepticism and ensure credit agencies properly value the company's multi-billion dollar Bitcoin holdings. Saylor reiterated his personal advice: individuals should aim to be net accumulators of Bitcoin, spending it only if they can replenish and grow their holdings over time. Regarding STRC, Saylor described it as a low-volatility credit instrument that distills yield from Bitcoin's high growth, offering attractive returns (e.g., ~11-12% yield) for risk-averse investors. He noted that Strategy's STRC issuance now constitutes about 60% of the U.S. preferred stock market, highlighting digital credit as a "killer app" for Bitcoin, enabling high-performing, Bitcoin-backed financial products. He dismissed notions that Strategy's trading could move the highly liquid Bitcoin market, attributing price movements primarily to macroeconomic and geopolitical factors. Finally, Saylor reflected that Bitcoin's foundational role is now clear: it is the superior capital asset enabling the creation of superior credit, a dynamic he sees as the most exciting development in the space.

marsbit30m ago

Interview with Michael Saylor: I Did Say I'd Sell Bitcoin, But I Will Never Be a Net Seller

marsbit30m ago

380,000 Apps Exposed, 2,000+ Apps Leaked Secrets: AI Programming Turns 'Intranet' into Public Internet

Israeli cybersecurity firm RedAccess uncovered a severe data exposure trend linked to "vibe coding" or AI-powered software development tools. Their research found approximately 38,000 publicly accessible web applications built with platforms like Lovable, Base44, Netlify, and Replit. Of these, an estimated 2,000 apps exposed sensitive corporate and personal data, including medical records, financial information, internal strategic documents, and customer chat logs. In some cases, access even granted administrative privileges. The core issue stems from default privacy settings that make applications public by default, combined with a lack of built-in security controls (like authentication) in the AI-generated code. This allows employees without security expertise—"citizen developers"—to easily create and deploy applications that bypass standard corporate security reviews. The exposed apps, often indexed by search engines, are trivially discoverable. While some platform providers (Replit, Lovable, Wix/Base44) argue that security configuration is the user's responsibility and question the validity of some findings, security researchers confirm the widespread reality of such exposures. This pattern, also noted in prior studies, highlights a critical security gap as AI democratizes app creation, potentially leading to massive, unintentional data leaks.

marsbit1h ago

380,000 Apps Exposed, 2,000+ Apps Leaked Secrets: AI Programming Turns 'Intranet' into Public Internet

marsbit1h ago

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What is BNB WHALES

Understanding BNB Whales: A Deep Dive into the Cryptocurrency Landscape Introduction to BNB Whales In the vibrant world of cryptocurrencies, new projects regularly emerge, often promising innovative solutions and unique experiences. One such project is BNB Whales, launched in 2023 and built on the BNB Smart Chain (BEP20). BNB Whales sets out to establish a distinctive presence within the cryptocurrency ecosystem, focusing on creating an engaging platform that combines the benefits of blockchain technology with social and gaming interactions. This article aims to delve deeper into BNB Whales, exploring its core components, mechanics, and developmental trajectory. What are BNB Whales? BNB Whales is a cryptocurrency initiative that seeks to provide a diverse range of features and opportunities for its users in the burgeoning Web3 environment. Utilizing the BEP20 standard, the project operates with a total token supply of 100 trillion (100,000,000,000,000,000). Despite this significant figure, it is noteworthy that no tokens are currently in circulation, indicating that the project may still be in its early developmental stages. The primary goal of BNB Whales is to create a platform where users can participate in various interactive activities while benefiting from the security and transparency afforded by blockchain technology. By fostering a unique and engaging environment, BNB Whales aims to build a strong community of users who are invested in the project and its development. Who is the Creator of BNB Whales? The identity of the creator of BNB Whales remains undisclosed at this time, presenting a challenge for those looking to understand the project's founding principles and visionary insights. This absence of publicly available information regarding the project's leadership may raise questions among potential investors and users about its governance and accountability structure. Who are the Investors of BNB Whales? As BNB Whales continues to evolve, information concerning specific investors or support from investment foundations is currently unavailable. The project’s official documentation, including its whitepaper, does not disclose either individual or institutional financial backers. The lack of transparency in this regard can sometimes raise questions about the legitimacy and sustainability of new projects within the cryptocurrency ecosystem. How Does BNB Whales Work? BNB Whales operates on the BNB Smart Chain utilizing the BEP20 standard, which is known for its efficiency and low transaction fees, attracting a variety of developers and projects. The unique aspect of BNB Whales lies in its focus on creating a community-driven platform. While precise operational details are scarce, the project emphasizes interaction and engagement, potentially incorporating gamified elements into its offerings. The emphasis on community is pivotal, as it aligns with prevailing trends in the cryptocurrency space, where user input and participation often dictate a project's success. Further innovation may be anticipated, but at present, the specific mechanisms and features that differentiate BNB Whales from other crypto initiatives remain to be fully elucidated. Without detailed information regarding its functionality, it is challenging to evaluate the project's differentiators comprehensively. Timeline of BNB Whales The development of BNB Whales has unfolded across key milestones, marking its journey in the cryptocurrency landscape. Below is a timeline of significant events pertaining to the project: 2023: Launch of BNB Whales, marking the project's entry into the market. 2023: Publication of the project's whitepaper, which lays out the overarching goals and operational framework. Ongoing: BNB Whales continues to develop its features, aiming to build a robust user base and expand its offerings. Key Points About BNB Whales Platform: BNB Smart Chain (BEP20) Total Supply: 100 trillion tokens (100,000,000,000,000,000) Circulating Supply: 0 tokens (indicating a nascent stage) Project Goal: To foster an engaging cryptocurrency platform for interaction and community building. Creator: Unknown Investors: Not disclosed Operational Status: Active with ongoing development and expansion Conclusion As BNB Whales navigates the competitive cryptocurrency landscape, it offers a glimpse into the potential of community-driven projects built on the foundations of blockchain technology. By focusing on engagement and interaction, the initiative stands at the forefront of innovation in the Web3 space. However, the project's success ultimately hinges on the clarity of its operational mechanics, the disclosure of its governance, and the establishment of a solid user community. For potential users and investors alike, BNB Whales represents a case study in the evolving nature of cryptocurrency projects—one that illustrates both the exciting possibilities and the complexities associated with new initiatives. As the landscape continues to evolve, it will be essential to monitor BNB Whales' progress and its impact on the broader cryptocurrency ecosystem.

3.3k Total ViewsPublished 2024.04.01Updated 2024.12.03

What is PONKE BNB

Ponke BNB: A New Approach in the Cryptocurrency Space Introduction Ponke BNB, a newcomer in the cryptocurrency arena, was launched in 2024 and operates on the BNB Smart Chain (BEP20) platform. This innovative project seeks to build a distinctive and engaged community, focusing on sustainable reward generation. As the cryptocurrency landscape evolves, Ponke BNB aims to address critical issues surrounding reward sustainability, making it a project worth observing for enthusiasts and investors alike. What is Ponke BNB? At its core, Ponke BNB is a cryptocurrency designed specifically for the BNB Smart Chain ecosystem. Boasting an immense total supply of 370,000,000,000,000,000 tokens, it is worth noting that currently, there are no tokens in circulation. The guiding mission of Ponke BNB is to foster a sustainable reward system that mitigates the challenges associated with rewards depletion, a common pitfall in many cryptocurrencies today. The mechanics of Ponke BNB's functionality centre around encouraging user participation, while simultaneously providing rewards that can stand the test of time. The unique structure of its reward system is aimed at ensuring longevity and stability, addressing essential market concerns. Who is the Creator of Ponke BNB? Despite extensive exploration, the identity of Ponke BNB's creator remains unknown. There is a notable absence of publicly available information regarding the project’s founder or its development team. This anonymity, while not uncommon in the cryptocurrency space, raises some questions about transparency and accountability in project management. Who are the Investors of Ponke BNB? Similar to the lack of clarity surrounding its creator, there is no public information available regarding any investment foundations or organizations that support Ponke BNB. This absence of investor data can often breed uncertainty among prospective investors, who typically prefer a clear understanding of the backing behind cryptocurrencies they consider engaging with. How Does Ponke BNB Work? Ponke BNB stands out through its inventive two-layered sustainable reward generating system. This system is built to tackle the issue of rewards depletion effectively. By engaging users and creating a vibrant community, Ponke BNB seeks to provide a stable and enjoyable environment, which emphasizes user interaction and rewards. The operation framework of Ponke BNB encourages participation through various activities and challenges that are designed to incentivise users while ensuring that the reward system remains sustainable. It aims to stimulate the community and promote an engaging atmosphere where members can feel valued and appreciated. Timeline of Ponke BNB The evolution of Ponke BNB can be summarized through a few key milestones: 2024: The inception of Ponke BNB on the BNB Smart Chain (BEP20) platform marked a significant entry into the cryptocurrency market. 2024: The release of the project’s whitepaper and official website provided comprehensive insights into Ponke BNB’s goals and objectives, forming the foundation for its community-driven approach. Key Features of Ponke BNB Ponke BNB is built on several key features that set it apart from other cryptocurrency projects: Sustainable Reward System The two-layered reward system is designed to foster engagement, prevent depletion of rewards, and ensure the longevity of returns for participants in the Ponke BNB ecosystem. Community Engagement The project places a strong emphasis on active community engagement, driving participation through activities designed to create a social and collaborative environment. This community-centric approach empowers users to have a hand in shaping the project's future directions. BNB Smart Chain Integration Operating on the BEP20 platform, Ponke BNB is reinforced by the security and efficiency offered by the BNB Smart Chain. Users benefit from fast and cost-effective transactions, positioning Ponke BNB well within the broader cryptocurrency ecosystem. Conclusion In summary, Ponke BNB is an emergent cryptocurrency project aiming to carve a niche for itself in the growing digital currency landscape. With its focus on a sustainable reward system and community engagement, it presents a fresh outlook in an otherwise volatile sector. While uncertainties linger concerning the project's creators and investors, Ponke BNB continues to strive for transparency and innovation. As the cryptocurrency market continues to develop, Ponke BNB’s principles of sustainability and community-driven dynamics place it in a promising light for future observers and participants alike.

3.1k Total ViewsPublished 2024.04.01Updated 2024.12.03

What is BNB CARD

Understanding BNB Card: Revolutionizing Digital Identity in Web3 In the rapidly evolving landscape of blockchain technology and cryptocurrency, the BNB Card or $BNBCARD stands out as a noteworthy project. This community-driven utility meme token leverages the BNB Smart Chain (BSC), aiming to integrate meme culture with innovative digital identity solutions. As more users dive into the realms of decentralization, it is crucial to dissect what BNB Card offers, its operational nuances, and its potential market impact. What is BNB Card ($BNBCARD)? At its core, BNB Card represents a meme token with substantial utility. It is designed to empower users by enabling the creation of personalized digital identity cards that are both expressive and functional. The project encapsulates several key features: Customizable ID Cards: Users have the ability to design Binance-themed digital ID cards, providing them with a platform for self-expression and enhanced community interaction. Decentralized Framework: Developed on the BSC, BNB Card emphasizes key attributes such as security, transparency, and user sovereignty. The decentralized nature of the framework allows for transactions that are both efficient and secure. Community-Centric Model: The emphasis on grassroots participation rather than laboratory-driven financial models creates an engaging environment for its users. By leveraging the inherent virality of meme culture, BNB Card fosters a robust community movement. The primary goal of BNB Card is to democratize digital identity tools in Web3, offering accessible solutions that benefit the users without the encumbrances typically associated with traditional identity management systems. Creator and Investors When exploring the identity behind BNB Card, it is important to note that no singular creator is explicitly credited. Instead, the project appears to be community-driven, suggesting a collective effort inspired by the notion of Binance's “Early Builder Card.” This organic development approach is common among projects within the meme token spectrum, where development is often influenced by the community's passion rather than a central authority. In terms of investment, the absence of publicly disclosed institutional backers further highlights the project's grassroots foundation. It thrives on organic community support, reflecting a usual characteristic of meme-driven projects that often engage their audience through social channels rather than formal investment routes. How It Works BNB Card employs several mechanisms that delineate its functioning and innovative spirit: Token Utility: The BNBCARD token allows users access to a suite of ID creation tools while also providing a platform for community governance. The token serves as the linchpin that enables these functionalities. Blockchain Integration: By utilizing the BSC, BNB Card ensures compatibility with Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM)-based applications. This integration provides users with the benefits of low transaction fees while enhancing accessibility. DIY Ecosystem: Central to BNB Card’s appeal is its do-it-yourself (DIY) approach to digital identity card generation. This participatory element encourages users to engage in creative expression, fostering an inclusive culture that thrives on contribution and collaboration. Timeline Chronology is vital to understanding BNB Card's trajectory. Important milestones in the project’s history include: March 18, 2025: BNB Card was listed on LBank, marking a significant step in its exchange journey and opening doors for liquidity and user accessibility. March 19, 2025: A pivotal moment occurred as the token experienced an astronomical surge of 26,000% within 24 hours, garnering attention for its potential and the community’s enthusiasm. Ongoing Developments: The project is continuously expanding its partnerships with decentralized exchanges (DEXs) like PancakeSwap, further enhancing liquidity and user engagement. Innovation and Differentiation Understanding what sets BNB Card apart involves deeper exploration into its innovative framework: Meme-Utility Hybrid: BNB Card successfully merges the playful allure of meme culture with practical applications in digital identity management. This niche approach effectively caters to a broad demographic, appealing to both tech-savvy users and those new to crypto. Decentralized Governance: Operating devoid of centralized control allows the project to harness community input directly. The collective decision-making process buoyed by community involvement empowers users, ensuring their voices contribute to the development and direction of the project. Scalability: BNB Card stands to benefit immensely from the 2025 roadmap upgrades to the BNB Chain, which include enhancements such as increased transaction speeds and the integration of artificial intelligence tools. These improvements position the project advantageously within a highly competitive environment. Conclusion BNB Card is emblematic of a new wave of digital identity solutions within the Web3 ecosystem. By blending fun, community engagement, and practical utility, it invites users to participate actively in shaping their digital personas. As the project navigates the dynamic cryptocurrency landscape, its success will likely hinge on maintaining strong community support while adapting to technological advancements and user needs. The integration of decentralization with meme culture serves not only as a means for user-driven engagement but also as a foundation for the evolving narrative surrounding digital identity in the age of blockchain. In summation, BNB Card not only exemplifies the convergence of creativity and utility within the crypto space but also underscores the importance of community in steering the future of decentralized technologies.

3.5k Total ViewsPublished 2025.03.26Updated 2025.03.26

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