On April 8, 2025, cryptocurrency exchange Kraken announced a strategic partnership with Mastercard to introduce crypto debit cards across the United Kingdom and Europe. This move marks a significant step towards bridging the gap between traditional finance and the world of cryptocurrency.
With this collaboration, Kraken aims to simplify crypto payments for its customers and expand the use of digital assets in everyday transactions.
Spend Crypto at 150 m Merchants with Kraken and Mastercard
The partnership will allow Kraken users in the UK and Europe to spend their crypto holdings at over 150 million merchants worldwide that accept Mastercard.
Moreover, this new offering builds on the platform’s recent launch of Kraken Pay, which enables users to send instant cross-border payments in over 300 cryptocurrencies and fiat currencies. Consequently, Its customer base, now more than 15 million worldwide, will benefit from easy access to both digital and fiat payment options.
“Cryptocurrency is transforming the payment industry, and we envision a future where global commerce and daily payments are powered by digital assets,” said David Ripley, co-CEO of Kraken. “Our partnership with Mastercard will help bring this vision to life by allowing customers to use their crypto assets for real-world purchases.”
Kraken launches physical and digital crypto debit cards
In addition, the new crypto debit cards will include both physical and digital options, making it easier for Kraken users to engage in daily spending with their digital currencies.
Furthermore, Kraken’s rapid expansion of payment options reflects its ongoing effort to drive the mainstream adoption of cryptocurrency. Within just 90 days of launching platform Pay, over 200,000 users activated their “Kraktag” for instant global payments.
Scott Abrahams, executive vice president of global partnerships at Mastercard, commented, “Our collaboration with Kraken is a clear example of our commitment to fostering innovation in digital payments.
We will together unleash the power of digital assets while making the experience for users easy as well as secure, streamlining the digital currency ecosystem.
Finally, for those Kraken customers interested in subscribing for the new crypto payment cards, there is now an exclusive waiting list. This alliance will transform crypto payments in Europe and the UK.