Mastercard Inc. (MA) agreed to acquire BVNK, a stablecoin infrastructure firm, for up to $1.8 billion, including $300 million in contingent payments. This move expands Mastercard’s digital asset capabilities, aiming to enhance cross-border transactions and integrate blockchain technology into traditional payment systems.

BVNK, which processes more than $30 billion in stablecoin payments annually, counts Visa, Citigroup, and Coinbase Global among its investors. The firm specializes in blockchain solutions for financial institutions, enabling seamless value movement across currencies and payment networks.

The acquisition aligns with Mastercard’s strategy to integrate digital currencies into its payment ecosystem. By leveraging BVNK’s infrastructure, Mastercard aims to improve efficiency in cross-border transactions, reduce costs, and expand its global reach in the growing digital asset market.

This deal underscores the increasing convergence of traditional finance and blockchain technology, with Mastercard positioning itself as a key player in the evolving stablecoin landscape.