Visa launches pilot payment program using stablecoin for creators and freelancers

Visa has launched a pilot program allowing businesses to pay creators and freelancers in stablecoin, starting with Circle's USDC. American businesses can use Visa Direct to deposit with fiat, while recipients can choose to receive USDC, with the requirement of having a stablecoin-supported wallet and completing KYC/AML. This is an extension of the September program, bringing stablecoin directly to end users, aimed at improving cross-border payments and supporting regions with weak banking systems.

Visa plans to expand its program in the second half of 2026 as demand and regulations become clearer. The company stated that since 2020, it has processed over 140 billion USD in cryptocurrency and stablecoin transactions. Currently, Visa operates more than 130 stablecoin-linked card programs in over 40 countries, with spending increasing fourfold in Q4. Visa continues to expand the application of stablecoin through cards, payments, and banking integration.