Mastercard launches debit card integrated with self-service cryptocurrency wallet

Mastercard has introduced a new debit card that is denoted in euros. The tool allows users to spend digital assets from non-custodial wallets at over 100 million points of sale worldwide. This move reflects the company’s efforts to support such wallets and integrate traditional finance with cryptocurrency technologies.

The global payments giant is partnering with European crypto payments infrastructure provider Mercuryo to launch the new card. The technology enables transactions with cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, directly from non-custodial wallets without transferring funds to centralized exchanges in advance.

Priority on self-custody

This partnership follows Mastercard’s pilot program with the MetaMask wallet, which began in August. In May, Mastercard also introduced the "Mastercard Crypto Credential" to facilitate sending and receiving cryptocurrency through pseudonyms, further strengthening the integration of blockchain technologies into traditional financial systems.

The company is focused on supporting self-custody solutions, which give users full control over their assets without relying on third-party custodians.

Mastercard’s Senior Vice President of Crypto and Fintech stated that the partnership aims to eliminate barriers between blockchain technology and traditional payments.

The head of the blockchain division at Mastercard emphasized that supporting self-custody helps avoid the complexities associated with buying and selling cryptocurrency through centralized exchanges. The new card creates an alternative for users who wish to maintain control over their assets.

Real-world application of cryptocurrency

By expanding the use of digital funds, Mastercard introduces corresponding fees for its services. The card, issued by Mercuryo, costs €1.60, with a monthly service fee of €1 and a 0.95% withdrawal fee. These costs support the necessary infrastructure to integrate self-custody wallets with traditional payment networks.

By enabling direct transactions and cryptocurrency spending at millions of points of sale, Mastercard positions itself as a key bridge between decentralized digital assets and everyday commerce. This move may encourage wider adoption of non-custodial wallets and expand the use of digital funds in daily life.