Visa has announced the launch of a large-scale pilot project that will allow companies to make international transfers through the Visa Direct platform using stablecoins—digital assets with a fixed value backed by fiat currencies. The project, scheduled to launch in spring 2026, promises to radically change the traditional cross-border payment model.
How will the use of stablecoins change for businesses?
The key feature of the new solution is the ability to use stablecoins as pre-paid digital tokens, allowing businesses to eliminate the practice of freezing large sums in local accounts across various countries. Traditionally, companies and financial intermediaries had to lock up significant fiat reserves to secure future payments, which limited the efficiency and mobility of capital.
The use of stablecoins enables the instant movement of funds around the world, with recipients able to withdraw transfers in their national currency. This ensures transparency, high speed, and reduced costs for payment transactions.
The Role of Legislation and Expert Opinions
A significant factor accelerating the project’s launch was the passage of the GENIUS Act in the United States, which established the status of “legitimate digital assets” and eliminated uncertainties regarding their use for financial institutions.
“Before this regulation was approved, many large companies were skeptical about using stablecoins. Now, thanks to a clear legal framework, we’re seeing growing interest and trust in this technology,” noted Mark Nelsen, head of product at Visa.
Analysts point out that stablecoins are rapidly becoming part of the traditional financial system, becoming an effective tool for mitigating currency risks and optimizing cash flow management. Visa plans to integrate this technology into its existing Visa Direct platform, complementing it with cryptocurrency capabilities rather than creating competition for banking systems.
Visa Strategic Partnerships
Visa is consistently developing its stablecoin initiatives. The company previously partnered with Stripe, which powers the Bridge platform, which issues cards linked to stable digital currencies. In the summer of 2025, it completed a major deal with the African startup Yellow Card, which specializes in stablecoin payments in several countries across the continent.
These partnerships demonstrate Visa’s commitment to expanding its presence in the rapidly growing digital payments sector, particularly in emerging markets, where stablecoin technology helps address the challenges of unstable national currencies.
Benefits for Businesses and Financial Institutions
The transition to stablecoins in cross-border payments allows businesses to free up frozen capital, increase settlement speed, and reduce operating costs. Small businesses, freelancers, and international startups will be able to manage their finances more flexibly, minimize bank fees, and avoid the delays typical of traditional currency transfers.
For financial institutions, the technology opens up new opportunities to optimize liquidity and expand the range of services. The high degree of automation and security provided by blockchain technology is also a positive factor.
Visa Direct Technology and Future Plans
Visa Direct is an instant payments platform that enables real-time fund transfers. Integration with stablecoins will enable the transfer of prepaid digital assets and their automatic conversion into the recipient’s local currency.
The pilot project is launching with several selected financial partners, and the initiative is planned to be scaled across Visa’s global client network by 2026.
In the long term, such technologies have the potential to radically transform the international payment infrastructure, bringing greater transparency, speed, and accessibility to money transfers.
Challenges and Risks of Digital Currencies
Despite their advantages, stablecoins still carry certain risks. Experts at the European Central Bank warn of potential threats associated with insufficient regulation and transparency of operations. Cybersecurity issues, the risk of fraud, and the need to adapt regulations to new technologies require attention.
However, many industry leaders believe that integrating digital currencies into the existing financial system and creating a clear regulatory framework will help mitigate potential risks and open new horizons for the industry.
Visa’s intention to introduce stablecoins into cross-border payments through Visa Direct is an important step toward revolutionizing international business and finance, promising to make settlements faster, cheaper, and more convenient for all market participants.
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