**MetaMask Partners with Mastercard for Crypto Debit Card Pilot in Europe**

MetaMask, a popular DeFi wallet, has teamed up with Mastercard and digital payments firm Baanx to launch a self-custody debit card pilot program in the UK and EU. This innovative card lets users hold their crypto until the transaction moment, converting digital assets to fiat for payments at various merchants.

**How It Works:**

- Users hold crypto on the Linea network.

- Set spending limits via Linea.

- Swipe the MetaMask card to create an onchain transaction.

- Tokens move from the wallet to the "Crypto Life" smart contract.

- The smart contract handles crypto-to-fiat conversion.

- Payment finalizes over Mastercard's network.

**Future Prospects:**

- Potential to bank the unbanked.

- Streamline crypto payments in high-inflation areas.

- Expansion plans beyond Europe.

Simon Jones from Baanx emphasizes the goal of financial inclusion for the 1.2 billion unbanked globally. This initiative could revolutionize access to financial services, especially in regions like Nigeria and Venezuela, where digital assets are already making a significant impact.