Mastercard Acquires BVNK for $1.8 Billion to Enhance Blockchain Payments Infrastructure

Mastercard has acquired stablecoin infrastructure startup BVNK for $1.8 billion, marking a significant expansion into blockchain-based payments. According to NS3.AI, this acquisition provides Mastercard with essential infrastructure for cross-border payments, settlement, and liquidity management. The move is part of a broader institutional trend towards stablecoin technology, following a surge in crypto mergers and acquisitions, which reached $37 billion in 2025.