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

Trending Cryptos

Related Questions

QWhat is the primary goal of Mastercard's new global partnership program as outlined in the statement?

AThe primary goal is to scale digital assets and integrate them seamlessly into existing payment frameworks.

QWhich two major crypto firms, besides Ripple, are specifically named as joining Mastercard's new initiative?

ACircle and Binance.

QWhat specific license does Ripple plan to secure in Australia, and how does it intend to obtain it?

ARipple plans to secure an Australian Financial Services License (AFSL) through its proposed acquisition of BC Payments Australia Pty Ltd.

QWhat legal complaint did Binance file, and against whom?

ABinance filed a complaint against The Wall Street Journal, alleging the publication of a misleading and defamatory article.

QWhat was the price of XRP and its performance relative to other top cryptocurrencies at the time of writing?

AXRP was trading at $1.38, marking a 3% loss, which was the largest decline among the top ten cryptocurrencies by market cap, only surpassed by Dogecoin's 7% drop.

Related Reads

7 Months After the Collapse of Huiwang, Southeast Asia's Escrow Platforms Undergo a Major Reshuffle

Following the collapse of Huione Pay—dubbed the "Alipay of Southeast Asia"—seven months ago, the region's underground financial guarantee platform sector is undergoing a significant reshuffle. This power vacuum has been swiftly filled by emerging platforms such as XinBi, Tiger/Navigator, JinBei (renamed JinBo), Dali/Tiancheng, and FullyLight. These platforms, operating largely via Telegram and offering services like escrow for illicit transactions, have absorbed the vast user base and markets left behind by Huione. While positioning themselves as "trust intermediaries," their primary clientele consists of networks involved in online scams, money laundering, illegal gambling, and even human trafficking. For instance, the Tiger/Navigator platform explicitly provides "escrow" services for kidnapping-for-ransom operations ("强押车交易"). Data underscores the immense scale: Huione alone processed over $103 billion in cryptocurrency payments and facilitated over $31 billion through its escrow market before its downfall, linking it to Cambodia's notorious Prince Group. Since its collapse, competitors have seen explosive growth. For example, the XinBi platform has accumulated over $1.6 billion in total USDT revenue, while platforms like NewPay, OkPay (under Dali), and FullyLight Wallet collectively processed over $4.8 billion in USDT in a single year. This ecosystem thrives in regions like Cambodia and Myanmar, where regulatory gaps allow these platforms to act as critical financial infrastructure for sprawling cybercrime industries, from scam compounds to online casinos. The article concludes that the moniker "Southeast Asian Alipay" is a misnomer, obscuring the platforms' fundamental role in enabling serious criminal enterprises rather than representing legitimate financial innovation.

Odaily星球日报43m ago

7 Months After the Collapse of Huiwang, Southeast Asia's Escrow Platforms Undergo a Major Reshuffle

Odaily星球日报43m ago

The Changing Landscape: What Are Crypto VCs Experiencing?

Title: The Shifting Landscape of Crypto Venture Capital The era of dedicated crypto venture capital funds is undergoing a significant transformation. Once essential for navigating the sector's complexity and high risk, these specialized funds are now facing an identity crisis as the market matures. This shift mirrors historical patterns in other specialized investment classes like cleantech and SPACs, where initial information advantages dissipate as technologies become mainstream and integrated into existing industry frameworks. The article argues that crypto is reaching a critical inflection point, transitioning from a "building phase" to an "integration phase." Major players like Stripe, BlackRock, and Visa now engage with crypto not for its novel mechanics but as a foundational financial infrastructure. Their needs—regulatory compliance, banking partnerships, distribution channels—align with traditional fintech, a domain easily understood by large, generalist funds like Sequoia and Founders Fund. This evolution creates a "barbell effect" within the VC landscape. On one end are massive, diversified platforms that can incorporate crypto as one vertical among many. On the other are small, nimble funds focused on niche, experimental projects. The middle ground—medium-sized dedicated crypto funds—is being squeezed out. Their typical fund size makes it impossible to generate sufficient returns solely from early-stage crypto bets, yet they cannot compete with giants for later-stage deals. Consequently, leading crypto-native firms like Paradigm and Framework Ventures are expanding into AI, robotics, and other sectors, driven partly by LP pressure for better returns amid a broader VC DPI crisis. Others, like Dragonfly and a16z, have narrowed their crypto focus predominantly to financial infrastructure like stablecoins, reframing the sector's core narrative. For crypto entrepreneurs, this consolidation presents challenges. While generalist funds offer larger checks and broader resources, crypto projects now compete fiercely with AI for attention and capital within these firms. Furthermore, the long-term, non-commercial foundational work that built the ecosystem—funded by dedicated crypto VCs—is less likely to attract generalist capital focused on direct returns. The conclusion is that "crypto investor" as a standalone category is becoming obsolete, akin to "internet investor." Crypto is becoming a baseline infrastructure layer. The future will see a barbell structure: large-scale growth financing handled by generalist funds, while pioneering, speculative projects are funded by small, specialized vehicles. The dedicated crypto funds of the 2017-2021 boom, which incubated core infrastructure, are giving way to this new, bifurcated reality.

Foresight News1h ago

The Changing Landscape: What Are Crypto VCs Experiencing?

Foresight News1h ago

As Consensus Accelerates, What Are Young Investors Betting On?

Title: As Consensus Forms Faster, What Are Young Investors Betting On? In the rapid evolution of tech investment, a new generation of young investors is navigating a landscape where AI, robotics, commercial aerospace, and quantum computing are advancing simultaneously. Traditional investment logic based on financial models is giving way to a need for deep technical understanding and the ability to act before industry consensus forms. An analysis of trends from the "WAIC FUTURE TECH" list of young investment leaders reveals key shifts in focus. The first major trend is the movement of AI from the digital screen into the physical world. Investment is shifting from large language models and chatbots towards embodied AI, robotics, AI hardware, and edge computing. While demonstrations generate excitement, the real challenge lies in achieving scalable, reliable, and cost-effective delivery in complex real-world environments like factories and logistics. Success depends not just on algorithms but on the integration of sensors, actuators, and control systems. Second, the competitive focus for large models is moving beyond raw capability toward building an "intelligence flywheel." The goal is to create self-reinforcing systems where user interaction generates data, improving the model, which in turn enhances the user experience and attracts more engagement. Companies that successfully embed AI into workflows to create these closed-loop systems can build lasting value that isn't easily erased by the next model upgrade. Third, facing a potential bottleneck in high-quality human-generated data, investors are looking at new underlying technologies. Reinforcement learning and self-play, as demonstrated by AlphaGo Zero, offer paths for AI to generate its own experience. Scientific foundation models, which aim to build general AI capabilities for fields like life sciences and materials discovery, represent a non-consensus direction that could unlock new frontiers of knowledge and data. Finally, in deep-tech areas like quantum computing, commercial aerospace, and space-based infrastructure, patient capital is essential. These fields have long, uncertain development and validation cycles involving complex engineering, supply chains, and regulations. Investment here requires a long-term view, focusing on foundational team capabilities and the eventual emergence of market demand, even if commercial returns are distant. Collectively, these trends illustrate how young investors are adapting to a new era. They are learning to make earlier, technically-informed judgments, balance hype with real-world viability, and provide the patient capital needed to build the deep-tech foundations of the future.

marsbit1h ago

As Consensus Accelerates, What Are Young Investors Betting On?

marsbit1h ago

Trading

Spot

Hot Articles

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.

4.0k Total ViewsPublished 2024.04.01Updated 2024.12.03

What is BNB WHALES

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.

3.7k Total ViewsPublished 2024.04.01Updated 2024.12.03

What is PONKE BNB

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.

4.2k Total ViewsPublished 2025.03.26Updated 2025.03.26

What is BNB CARD

Discussions

Welcome to the HTX Community. Here, you can stay informed about the latest platform developments and gain access to professional market insights. Users' opinions on the price of BNB (BNB) are presented below.

活动图片