Mastercard expands crypto payroll service via African fintech collaboration

Mastercard is teaming up with a fintech leader in Africa to offer a new crypto payroll service across the continent, aiming to simplify salary payments for remote workers and gig-economy participants. The initiative reflects growing demand for faster, lower-cost cross-border payments and builds on the increasing use of digital currencies in everyday financial interactions.

The collaboration enables businesses to pay employees directly in stablecoins—such as USDC—providing instant settlement and protection against local currency volatility. Employees can then convert and withdraw funds through local payment options or keep them in digital form. This flexibility is especially useful in regions where banking infrastructure may be limited or foreign exchange controls affect traditional methods.

For employers, the service eliminates cumbersome bank transfers and delays associated with international payroll. Instead of navigating intermediaries and high fees, companies can onboard workers quickly and manage payments through an integrated platform. That operational ease addresses a challenge many businesses face when hiring talent across borders.

Behind the scenes, Mastercard brings its global payment infrastructure and compliance capabilities, while the African fintech contributes its regional expertise, mobile-wallet customer base, and deep understanding of local remittance flows. Together, they aim to deliver a seamless experience that meets both regulatory standards and user convenience.

“This partnership bridges the gap between traditional finance and digital asset innovation,” said a Mastercard spokesperson. “Our goal is to bring legitimacy and access to crypto-based payments in a way that benefits employers, workers, and financial authorities alike.”

The fintech partner, with operations in key hubs like Kenya, Nigeria, and Ghana, has already seen rising demand from freelancers and remote teams requesting quick, transparent salary options. Payroll in stablecoins mitigates risks tied to inflation and exchange rate instability—two big pain points for many workers in the region.

While the service shows promise, challenges remain. Crypto regulations vary widely across African countries; some authorities are cautious and concerned about misuse or lack of control. To address this, payments undergo strict verification and KYC processes, and the partners are coordinating with local regulators to ensure transparency and legal alignment.

Analysts suggest that if adoption grows, the model could transform how cross-border labor is compensated—speeding access to funds, lowering costs, and even encouraging broader crypto acceptance in everyday commerce. That said, education will be critical to build trust and understanding among users unfamiliar with crypto interfaces.

Mastercard and its partner aim to launch a pilot in select markets later this year, collecting feedback from both employers and recipients. If successful, the offering might expand across additional markets and types of work arrangements, potentially including gig platforms, international contractors, and corporate teams.

By combining Mastercard’s institutional credibility with fintech innovation, this crypto payroll service may not only solve practical payment challenges in Africa but also drive further integration of digital assets into the financial mainstream.