--- title: Mastercard acquires BVNK and accelerates the shift toward on chain payment rails description: Mastercard acquires BVNK in a landmark m&a deal shaping the future of payment rails crypto infrastructure and EMI driven financial ecosystems. image: https://obtained.com/hubfs/photo_2026-03-17_21-53-14.jpg --- [![Logo obtained](https://obtained.com/hubfs/logo.svg "Logo obtained")](https://obtained.com) - Services - ![bank(9)](https://obtained.com/hs-fs/hubfs/bank(9).png?width=14&height=13&name=bank(9).png) [M&A CENTER](https://obtained.com/ma-center) Gain access to a diverse range of entities available for acquisition or showcase your company for sale Obtained. brings together buyers and sellers in fintech, iGaming, crypto, and financial institutions .  - ![bank(9)](https://obtained.com/hs-fs/hubfs/bank(9).png?width=14&height=13&name=bank(9).png) [LICENSING](https://obtained.com/licensing-across-multiple-verticals) Expand your business into fintech or iGaming by leveraging from Obtained. vast experience in license application  we support VASP, EMI, PI, EU and offshore iGaming licenses, investment firms, and more. - ![bank(9)](https://obtained.com/hs-fs/hubfs/bank(9).png?width=14&height=13&name=bank(9).png) [COMPANY FORMATION](https://obtained.com/company-formation) Incorporate a company world wide with ease. Utilise additional professional service such as accounting, auditing and more. - Products - ![bank(9)](https://obtained.com/hs-fs/hubfs/bank(9).png?width=14&height=13&name=bank(9).png) [PAYMENT GATEWAY](https://obtained.com/payment-gateway) Utilize a powerful PCI level 1 payment gateway offering diverse solutions across multiple jurisdictions to monetise clients globally. Our expert payments team identifies unique payment methods and fosters partnerships with leading providers, ensuring you benefit from our industry expertise. - ![bank(9)](https://obtained.com/hs-fs/hubfs/bank(9).png?width=14&height=13&name=bank(9).png) [PAYMENT ORCHESTRATION](https://obtained.com/payment-orchestation) Our payments orchestration platform gives you full control over routing, cascading, and decision-making across your payment infrastructure. Manage multiple domains and optimize PSP availability and order for your clients in real time. - ![bank(9)](https://obtained.com/hs-fs/hubfs/bank(9).png?width=14&height=13&name=bank(9).png) [BANKING RAILS](https://obtained.com/banking-rails) Obtained. expertise ensures you access the right banking rails, navigate the onboarding process seamlessly, and maintain lasting, productive partnerships with your banking providers. - ![bank(9)](https://obtained.com/hs-fs/hubfs/bank(9).png?width=14&height=13&name=bank(9).png) [CRYPTO RAILS](https://obtained.com/crypto-liquidity-providers) Secure relations with top crypto exchanges accommodating your line of business, liquidity preferences and assets requirement.  - Company - ![bank(9)](https://obtained.com/hs-fs/hubfs/bank(9).png?width=14&height=13&name=bank(9).png) [WHO WE ARE](https://obtained.com/who-we-are) Learn more about our origins and strong suits - ![bank(9)](https://obtained.com/hs-fs/hubfs/bank(9).png?width=14&height=13&name=bank(9).png) [CAREERS](https://obtained.com/careers) Join Obtained. to broaden your horizons and become the person everyone seeks  - ![bank(9)](https://obtained.com/hs-fs/hubfs/bank(9).png?width=14&height=13&name=bank(9).png) [BLOG](https://obtained.com/blog) Gain access to current market information focusing on Financial Institutions, Crypto, Unique M&A deals and Market Trends. - Support - ![bank(8)](https://obtained.com/hs-fs/hubfs/bank(8).png?width=13&height=13&name=bank(8).png) [DEVELOPERS](https://obtained.com/introduction) - ![bank(1)](https://obtained.com/hs-fs/hubfs/bank(1).png?width=12&height=13&name=bank(1).png) [KNOWLEDGE BASE](https://obtained.com/knowledge) - ![bank(2)](https://obtained.com/hs-fs/hubfs/bank(2).png?width=9&height=13&name=bank(2).png) [CONTACT US](https://obtained.com/contact-us) - [PARTNERS](https://obtained.com/partners) - [LOGIN](https://bo.obtained.com/mregister/mlogin.aspx) [Book a Meeting](https://obtained.com/book-a-meeting) [Book a Meeting](https://obtained.com/book-a-meeting) ###### [m&a payments](https://obtained.com/blog/tag/ma-payments) ###### [payment rails](https://obtained.com/blog/tag/payment-rails) ###### [crypto payments infrastructure](https://obtained.com/blog/tag/crypto-payments-infrastructure) ###### [stablecoin settlement](https://obtained.com/blog/tag/stablecoin-settlement) ###### [mastercard acquisition](https://obtained.com/blog/tag/mastercard-acquisition) ###### [EMI licensing](https://obtained.com/blog/tag/emi-licensing) ###### [fintech acquisitions](https://obtained.com/blog/tag/fintech-acquisitions) # Mastercard acquires BVNK and accelerates the shift toward on chain payment rails ![Gilad Shalem](https://obtained.com/hs-fs/hubfs/WhatsApp%20Image%202025-03-09%20at%2001.29.13.jpeg?width=48&height=48&name=WhatsApp%20Image%202025-03-09%20at%2001.29.13.jpeg) [By Gilad Shalem](https://obtained.com/blog/author/g-shalem) 1 min read Mar 19, 2026 ###### SHARE - - - - [mailto:?subject=Check%20out%20https://obtained.com/blog/mastercard-acquires-bvnk-and-accelerates-the-shift-toward-on-chain-payment-rails&body=Check%20out%20https://obtained.com/blog/mastercard-acquires-bvnk-and-accelerates-the-shift-toward-on-chain-payment-rails&media=https://144021643.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/144021643/photo_2026-03-17_21-53-14.jpg](mailto:?subject=Check%20out%20https://obtained.com/blog/mastercard-acquires-bvnk-and-accelerates-the-shift-toward-on-chain-payment-rails&body=Check%20out%20https://obtained.com/blog/mastercard-acquires-bvnk-and-accelerates-the-shift-toward-on-chain-payment-rails&media=https://144021643.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/144021643/photo_2026-03-17_21-53-14.jpg) # A defining M&A move in global payments Mastercard has moved decisively into the next phase of financial infrastructure with the acquisition of BVNK, a fast growing stablecoin infrastructure provider. The transaction reflects a broader shift where global payment leaders are securing direct access to crypto native infrastructure rather than relying on integrations. ![Mastercard and BVNK payment rails acquisition image with digital infrastructure and fintech city backdrop](https://obtained.com/hs-fs/hubfs/mastercard_bvnk.jpg?width=747&height=498&name=mastercard_bvnk.jpg) # Why this acquisition matters for payment rails This is not about crypto exposure. It is about controlling the infrastructure layer where value moves. Stablecoins are now being used for cross border settlement, treasury management and real time payouts. Mastercard is positioning itself at the center of these flows by integrating card rails, [banking rails](https://obtained.com/banking-rails) and on chain rails. # Crypto, EMI and payment infrastructure convergence BVNK brings licensing coverage, orchestration technology and a client base already operating across fiat and digital assets. This aligns with a growing requirement for [EMIs and payment institutions](https://obtained.com/ma-center) to support hybrid financial models that combine regulated fiat services with blockchain settlement. # Mastercard vs Visa acquisitions and strategy | Category | Mastercard | Visa | | --- | --- | --- | | Latest move | BVNK acquisition | Stablecoin partnerships | | Strategy | Own infrastructure | Extend network | | Crypto approach | Direct control | Indirect integration | | EMI positioning | Acquire licensed stack | Support partners | | Outcome | Hybrid rails | Enhanced traditional rails | # Obtained perspective and market positioning At Obtained, this transaction validates what we are already executing across multiple jurisdictions and client segments. The future of financial services is not separated between fiat and crypto. It is a unified infrastructure model built on licensing, [payment connectivity and orchestration](https://obtained.com/payment-gateway). We support clients in acquiring and structuring EMI and payment institution licenses, integrating payment rails and enabling access to both traditional banking and digital asset infrastructure. This includes: - EMI license acquisition and structuring across Europe and offshore jurisdictions - [Payment gateway and orchestration](https://obtained.com/payment-orchestation) layer implementation - Banking and safeguarding account introductions - Crypto and stablecoin infrastructure integration - End to end setup from licensing to operational readiness Transactions such as Mastercard acquiring BVNK show that the market is moving toward consolidation of infrastructure. For operators, building this internally is no longer efficient. Strategic acquisition, partnerships or turnkey solutions are required. This acquisition confirms a structural shift in financial services. Payment networks are evolving into multi rail infrastructure providers. Licensing, compliance and technology are merging into a single requirement. The question is no longer whether crypto and fiat will converge. It is which companies will control the infrastructure layer that connects them. Mastercard acquires BVNK and accelerates the shift toward on chain payment rails 2:58 [Back to List](https://obtained.com/blog) [Next Article](https://obtained.com/blog/south-africa-payment-rails-guide) #### RELEVANT POST [![Malta MFSA and Cyprus CySEC regulatory buildings comparison for MiCA CASP crypto licensing jurisdiction choice](https://obtained.com/hubfs/Financial%20regulatory%20comparison_%20Malta%20vs%20Cyprus.png)](https://obtained.com/blog/mica-casp-license-mfsa-cysec-comparison) [Malta MFSA vs CySEC: Which MiCA CASP Authorisation Route Is Actually Faster?](https://obtained.com/blog/mica-casp-license-mfsa-cysec-comparison) 14 Apr, 2026 [![Obtained Cyprus Spring Events 2026 banner with bold red and black visuals, Cyprus map silhouette, and focus on AI, gaming, investment, and innovation industries.](https://obtained.com/hubfs/IMG_4853.jpg)](https://obtained.com/blog/cyprus-conferences-to-attend-in-april-and-may-2026-for-ai-blockchain-and-fintech) [Cyprus conferences to attend in April and May 2026 for AI, blockchain and fintech](https://obtained.com/blog/cyprus-conferences-to-attend-in-april-and-may-2026-for-ai-blockchain-and-fintech) 05 Apr, 2026 [![Comparison image of Tuvalu gaming license and Liberia gaming license showing offshore iGaming licensing certificates, casino chips and global gaming market positioning.](https://obtained.com/hubfs/Comparison%20image%20of%20Tuvalu%20gaming%20license%20and%20Liberia%20gaming%20license%20showing%20offshore%20iGaming%20licensing%20certificates%2c%20casino%20chips%20and%20global%20gaming%20market%20positioning..png)](https://obtained.com/blog/tuvalu-gaming-license-vs-liberia-gaming-license-in-2026-key-differences-for-igaming-operators) [Tuvalu Gaming License vs Liberia Gaming License in 2026: Key Differences for iGaming Operators](https://obtained.com/blog/tuvalu-gaming-license-vs-liberia-gaming-license-in-2026-key-differences-for-igaming-operators) 03 Apr, 2026 #### Subscribe to Our Blog ## Related Posts [![Digital illustration showing Stripe acquiring Privy, with fintech and crypto infrastructure icons in the background, symbolizing mergers in payment and identity platforms.](https://obtained.com/hs-fs/hubfs/StripAcquiresPrivy.jpg?width=900&name=StripAcquiresPrivy.jpg)](https://obtained.com/blog/stripe-acquires-privy-expanding-control-across-fintech-and-crypto-rails) ###### [EMI](https://obtained.com/blog/tag/emi) ###### [M&A](https://obtained.com/blog/tag/ma) ###### [Payment Orchestration](https://obtained.com/blog/tag/payment-orchestration) ###### [Crypto](https://obtained.com/blog/tag/crypto) ###### [Global Payments](https://obtained.com/blog/tag/global-payments) ###### [Stripe Privy acquisition](https://obtained.com/blog/tag/stripe-privy-acquisition) ###### [Crypto rails](https://obtained.com/blog/tag/crypto-rails) ##### [Stripe Acquires Privy: Expanding Control Across Fintech and Crypto Rails](https://obtained.com/blog/stripe-acquires-privy-expanding-control-across-fintech-and-crypto-rails) Jun 16, 2025 2 min read Intro In a move that’s sending strong signals across the fintech and crypto ec. [Read The Article](https://obtained.com/blog/stripe-acquires-privy-expanding-control-across-fintech-and-crypto-rails) [![Illustration of Global Payments acquiring Worldpay in 2025, symbolizing fintech consolidation, card acquiring market shifts, and merchant payment infrastructure strategy.](https://obtained.com/hs-fs/hubfs/worldpay.jpg?width=900&name=worldpay.jpg)](https://obtained.com/blog/global-payments-acquires-worldpay) ###### [M&A](https://obtained.com/blog/tag/ma) ###### [Card Acquiring](https://obtained.com/blog/tag/card-acquiring) ###### [WorldPay](https://obtained.com/blog/tag/worldpay) ###### [Global Payments](https://obtained.com/blog/tag/global-payments) ##### [Global Payments Buys Back Worldpay: Another Big Bet in Fintech?](https://obtained.com/blog/global-payments-acquires-worldpay) Apr 25, 2025 2 min read Another Big Shuffle in Fintech: Global Payments Reclaims Worldpay In what’s sh. [Read The Article](https://obtained.com/blog/global-payments-acquires-worldpay) [![Nevis iGaming regulation and gaming license overview](https://obtained.com/hs-fs/hubfs/ChatGPT%20Image%20Mar%2016%2c%202026%20at%2005_13_28%20PM.png?width=900&name=ChatGPT%20Image%20Mar%2016%2c%202026%20at%2005_13_28%20PM.png)](https://obtained.com/blog/nevis-igaming-regulation-2026) ###### [iGaming](https://obtained.com/blog/tag/igaming) ###### [Nevis](https://obtained.com/blog/tag/nevis) ###### [B2C](https://obtained.com/blog/tag/b2c) ###### [offshore regulation](https://obtained.com/blog/tag/offshore-regulation) ###### [regulated casino](https://obtained.com/blog/tag/regulated-casino) ###### [b2b](https://obtained.com/blog/tag/b2b) ##### [Nevis iGaming Regulation in 2026: Latest developments, recent licence activity, and what operators should know](https://obtained.com/blog/nevis-igaming-regulation-2026) Mar 18, 2026 4 min read What has changed and why more operators are looking at Nevis Nevis is becoming. [Read The Article](https://obtained.com/blog/nevis-igaming-regulation-2026) ![obtained-white-logo](https://obtained.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Group%20272.png?width=80&height=57&name=Group%20272.png) ###### SERVICES - [M&A Center](https://obtained.com/ma-center) - [Licensing](https://obtained.com/licensing-across-multiple-verticals) - [Company Formation](https://obtained.com/company-formation) ###### PRODUCTS - [Payment Gateway](https://obtained.com/payment-gateway) - [Payment Orchestration](https://obtained.com/payment-orchestation) - [Banking rails](https://obtained.com/banking-rails) - [Crypto rails](https://obtained.com/crypto-liquidity-providers) ###### COMPANY - [Who we are](https://obtained.com/who-we-are) - [Careers](https://obtained.com/careers) - [Blog](https://obtained.com/blog) ###### SUPPORT - [Knowledge Base](https://obtained.com/knowledge) [PARTNERS](https://obtained.com/partners) [LOGIN](https://bo.obtained.com/mregister/mlogin.aspx) ![pci](https://obtained.com/hs-fs/hubfs/image(1)-1.png?width=500&height=397&name=image(1)-1.png) ![visa](https://obtained.com/hs-fs/hubfs/image(2)-1.png?width=300&height=129&name=image(2)-1.png) ![mastercard](https://obtained.com/hs-fs/hubfs/image(3).png?width=369&height=163&name=image(3).png) ![visa](https://obtained.com/hs-fs/hubfs/image(5).png?width=275&height=228&name=image(5).png) ![ssl-blog-removebg-preview](https://obtained.com/hs-fs/hubfs/ssl-blog-removebg-preview.png?width=533&height=468&name=ssl-blog-removebg-preview.png) --- © 2023-2026 Obtained Ltd. All rights reserved. - [Terms of use](https://obtained.com/terms-conditions) - [Privacy policy](https://obtained.com/privacy-policy) - [Cookie policy](https://obtained.com/cookies-policy) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Gilad Shalem", "url" : "https://obtained.com/blog/author/g-shalem" }, "dateModified" : "2026-03-23T20:02:07.722Z", "datePublished" : "2026-03-19T09:07:00.000Z", "headline" : "Mastercard acquires BVNK and accelerates the shift toward on chain payment rails", "image" : [ "https://obtained.com/hubfs/photo_2026-03-17_21-53-14.jpg" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://obtained.com/blog/mastercard-acquires-bvnk-and-accelerates-the-shift-toward-on-chain-payment-rails", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://obtained.com/hubfs/logo.svg" }, "name" : "Obtained Limited" } } ```