Hi! Have you heard that Mastercard considers 2025 to be a turning point for banks and cryptocurrencies? Let's find out why they think that way and what exactly might change.
Clear rules and widespread adoption of the blockchain
Mastercard has published a forecast according to which the crypto industry will continue to grow, and with it the regulation and implementation of blockchain technology will increase. For example, bitcoin ETFs are becoming popular and recognized by traditional investors, which suggests that cryptocurrencies are no longer perceived as a marginal phenomenon.
Tokenized deposits and stablecoins
One of the key trends is the growing popularity of tokenized deposits and stablecoins. Banks are already starting to use blockchain to issue such deposits in order to speed up transactions and increase their security. Stablecoins, in turn, are increasingly being used in business and international transfers. Now their total value is approaching 200 billion dollars. Mastercard expects that the new rules will make them even more stable and in demand.
Regulation of digital assets
The US and EU authorities are also actively involved in regulating cryptocurrencies. For example, the European Union has introduced the Regulation on Crypto Asset Markets (MiCA), which gives banks and financial companies clear rules for dealing with digital assets. A special SEC group has been formed in the United States to control the cryptocurrency market. All this creates a safer environment for institutional investors and prevents fraud.
CBDC for wholesale payments
Central banks in many countries are gradually abandoning the idea of digital currencies for the public (CBDC), but are focusing on the introduction of digital assets for financial institutions. This will speed up international payments and reduce their cost. The policy of the US administration also reflects this trend, as the ban on retail CBDCs focuses specifically on institutional solutions.
Integration of blockchain into traditional finance
Blockchain is increasingly entering the banking sector. In 2024, bitcoin ETFs appeared, and the price of bitcoin broke the $100,000 mark. This once again confirms that digital assets are anchored in the financial system. Mastercard emphasizes that security, convenience, and user trust are important for the mass adoption of blockchain.
Future prospects
One of the most important factors will be the possibility of transferring funds between different blockchain networks. Mastercard is already working on this with its Multipoint Network (MTN), offering secure and interoperable solutions. Large banks such as Standard Chartered Bank and fintech companies such as J.P. Morgan's Kinex are also developing similar technologies, making blockchain an integral part of the financial system.
So it looks like we are going to see big changes in the world of finance in the coming years. Do you think cryptocurrencies will really become a full-fledged part of the banking system, or will their place remain on the periphery?
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