• MetaMask rolls out a blockchain debit card in the EU and UK, developed with Mastercard and Baanx, with broader distribution planned.

  • The MetaMask Card allows users to make purchases with crypto, maintaining self-custody until payment.

  • The card supports USDC, USDT, and wETH, marking a critical step toward mainstream blockchain financial services.

MetaMask, a prominent Ethereum wallet, is launching its blockchain-powered debit card. Created in partnership with Mastercard and Baanx, the MetaMask Card is designed to connect traditional finance with digital currencies. Initially, it will initially be available to a select group of users in the EU and UK, with plans for wider release later this year.

Introducing MetaMask Card: The world’s first Mastercard debit card that enables instant spending directly from your self-custody wallet. We’ve teamed up with @Mastercard and @BaanxGroup to bridge the gap between crypto and daily life.With MetaMask Card, every day can be crypto…

— MetaMask 🦊🫰 (@MetaMask) August 14, 2024

Initially, the MetaMask Card will be issued as a “limited pilot” to a few thousand users. These digital-only cards will enable users to make purchases directly with their crypto holdings. The card offers self-custody, meaning users retain control over their funds until the point of payment.

Mastercard has also partnered with Baanx on the Web3 payments initiative, connecting traditional payment systems with crypto platforms. The card will support spending in cryptocurrencies like USDC, USDT, and wETH, held on the Linea blockchain, an Ethereum layer-2 network developed by Consensys. Additionally, MetaMask plans to expand this pilot to other regions over the coming quarters.

We’re proud to announce we've partnered with @MetaMask and @Mastercard.Together, we're piloting the world’s first Mastercard debit card that allows you to spend crypto directly from your MetaMask wallet! Now available to a limited set of users in the EU and UK.Seamless,… pic.twitter.com/6qExeD0FGj

— Baanx Group (@BaanxGroup) August 14, 2024

The MetaMask Card reflects a broader trend where traditional financial services and blockchain technology are increasingly intertwined. Global institutions are tokenizing conventional instruments, while asset managers are offering Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs. Payments giants like Mastercard and Visa are exploring ways to integrate blockchain into financial systems.

Furthermore, this move aligns with Mastercard’s ongoing efforts to innovate in the crypto payments space. Raj Dhamodharan, Mastercard’s EVP of blockchain and digital assets, emphasized the opportunity to simplify and secure purchases for self-custody wallet users. 

Additionally, Simon Jones, Baanx’s chief commercial officer, highlighted the potential impact on unbanked populations, particularly in countries with limited access to traditional banking services.

The MetaMask Card represents a step forward in making crypto more accessible and practical for daily use. As global financial systems continue to evolve, the integration of blockchain technology is set to redefine how consumers interact with digital and traditional assets alike.

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