Visa Inc. has launched a stablecoin payout pilot, allowing businesses to send USD-backed stablecoins to creators' and freelancers’ wallets, enhancing transaction speed and transparency globally.
Visa's stablecoin initiative could revolutionize cross-border payments, unlocking corporate liquidity and improving financial transaction efficiency with broader rollout plans projected for 2026.
Visa Pilots Global Stablecoin Transactions for Freelancers
Visa has initiated a stablecoin payout pilot using Visa Direct, facilitating global payouts for creators and freelancers. This initiative offers near-instant, borderless transactions using USD-backed stablecoins like USDC. Mark Nelsen, SVP, Head of Product for Commercial and Money Movement Solutions, Visa, said, "Launching stablecoin payouts is about enabling truly universal access to money in minutes – not days – for anyone, anywhere in the world."
Visa Inc. partners with Nium to bring universal access to money for global payments. This marks a move towards faster and more efficient transactions, aligning with Visa's pre-funding pilot in September 2025.
Instant Payouts Reshape Freelancer Economy
The pilot enables instant payouts to freelancers, potentially enhancing liquidity and reducing waiting times. Key executives highlight its potential to transform cross-border payments.
Insights suggest significant financial outcomes, reducing cross-border corporate liquidity needs. USDC is central to this pilot, with broader stablecoin integration anticipated as regulations evolve.
Visa's 2021 USDC Pilot Sets the Stage
Visa's January 2021 USDC settlement pilots with Crypto.com set precedents for this initiative. Similar efforts by Mastercard improved cross-border transaction speeds without significant impact on BTC or ETH.
Experts indicate that advancing stablecoin usage aligns with regulatory clarity. Historical trends show a gradual push toward blockchain settlements enhancing global payment infrastructures.