Mastercard working on blockchain to connect TradFi and crypto: report

Mastercard is developing a blockchain-powered Multi-Token Network to connect traditional financial institutions with the digital asset space.

The initiative, led by Raj Dhamodharan, Mastercard’s executive vice president of blockchain and digital assets, aims to provide a compliant, user-friendly experience for moving digital assets, similar to Venmo or Zelle, according to Business Insider 

Mastercard is positioning itself as a key infrastructure provider in the growing blockchain ecosystem. By integrating its vast payment network with blockchain technology, the company seeks to enable seamless transactions between fiat and crypto markets. 

Dhamodharan highlighted that financial institutions are increasingly interested in blockchain due to its potential to create new business models.

Mastercard partnerships

The network has already secured partnerships with JPMorgan and Standard Chartered, focusing on cross-border payments, tokenized deposits, and carbon credit transactions. 

Mastercard has also introduced over 100 crypto-focused card programs worldwide, allowing its 3.5 billion cardholders to interact with digital assets.

Since 2015, Mastercard has filed over 250 blockchain-related patents and backed 43 startups in the sector. Recent collaborations include a November 2024 integration with JPMorgan to improve cross-border settlements and a February 2025 partnership with Ondo Finance to bring institutional financial assets on-chain.

Mastercard’s blockchain expansion comes as U.S. regulators provide more clarity on digital assets, encouraging traditional finance firms to engage with crypto. Dhamodharan believes the company is well-positioned to capitalize on this momentum, leveraging its scale to drive broader blockchain adoption.