Mastercard integrates crypto payments through a new partnership with Bakkt

According to reports, MasterCard is preparing to announce that thousands of banks and millions of merchants on its payment network will soon be able to integrate cryptocurrency into its products. It includes Bitcoin wallets, credit and debit cards (rewards can be earned through cryptocurrency, and digital assets can be consumed), and loyalty programs to convert airline or hotel points into Bitcoin. Executives of the two companies said that to achieve this goal, MasterCard is working with Bakkt. Sherri Haymond, MasterCard's executive vice president of digital partnerships, said in an interview: "We want to provide all partners with the ability to add encryption services to their businesses easily. Our partners, whether they are banks, financial technology companies, or merchants, can provide customers with the ability to buy, sell and hold cryptocurrencies through integration with the Bakkt platform."