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Visa Unveils a Groundbreaking Stablecoin Platform

On July 16, 2026, Visa introduced the Visa Stablecoin Platform (VSP) in San Francisco, aimed at revolutionizing digital asset transactions for financial institutions and fintech companies. This enterprise-focused platform allows users to issue, manage, and transfer stablecoins seamlessly within a single, secure environment controlled by Visa.

Comprehensive Support for Stablecoin Operations

The VSP is built upon Visa's extensive cryptocurrency strategy, designed to facilitate operations related to the issuance, custody, and redemption of stablecoins. The first notable implementation will specifically support the Open USD, a newly announced stablecoin by Open Standard. Key features include a robust on-chain wallet foundation and connectivity for issuing and redeeming Open USD, enabling customers to navigate digital financial landscapes with ease.

Jack Forestell, Visa's Chief Product and Strategy Officer, stated, "Stablecoins are opening new possibilities for programmable money. The challenge for many institutions isn't the concept but establishing the operational infrastructure to make it function. Through the Visa Stablecoin Platform, we are offering customers an environment equipped with the expected management features, security, and global network of Visa, enabling them to issue, move, and manage stablecoins effectively. Our aim is to help customers bridge their interest in stablecoins into practical services and payment flows."

Key Functionalities of the Visa Stablecoin Platform

The VSP provides institutions with direct access to various stablecoin functionalities, facilitating a smoother transition from consideration to implementation. Here are some of the standout features:

Direct Access to Open USD

The platform integrates seamlessly with Open Standard, providing direct access to Open USD alongside Visa's network services. This integration allows clients to manage, redeem, and issue Open USD, empowering them to adopt on-chain operations within a reliable environment.

On-Chain Wallet Infrastructure

VSP offers a comprehensive wallet infrastructure tailored for diverse institutional use cases. With necessary management functions and workflows, it supports the practical integration of stablecoins into financial operations, payments, and product offerings.

Integration with Visa's Network

Designed for smooth integration, the platform connects stablecoins with Visa's existing payment ecosystem. Users can conveniently incorporate stablecoins into their established financial operations and payment processes, providing interoperability for current Visa clients who can merge their workflows with stablecoin functionalities.

Trust-Driven Design

With VSP, institutions handle stablecoins under Visa's robust security measures. Features such as dual approval workflows for sensitive operations, comprehensive audit trails, secure passkeys in Wallet-as-a-Service, and permission lists for transaction destinations enhance operational security and management.

Seamless Onboarding Process

Implementing the VSP is straightforward and includes:
1. Onboarding and Operations: Institutions can onboard to Visa-managed wallet stacks or integrate existing wallets, bringing all stablecoin issuance, redemption, and transfers under one umbrella.
2. Bank Account and Management Integration: Clients link bank accounts, establish permissions, and set policies to control who initiates and approves stablecoin transactions.
3. Stablecoin Management: Starting with Open USD, VSP supports stablecoin issuance, redemption, holding, and movement as part of financial, payment, and liquidity management workflows.

Currently, VSP is in its beta testing phase, available initially to select clients. This rollout provides an opportunity for clients to explore how stablecoins fit into their strategies. As they validate and refine their use cases, Visa intends to leverage insights gained during this initial phase to strategize the platform's future expansions.

About Visa

Visa stands as a global leader in electronic payments, connecting consumers, businesses, financial institutions, and governments through transactions in over 200 countries and regions. Our mission is to build the world's most innovative, convenient, and secure payment network, contributing to the prosperity of individuals, businesses, and economies. We believe that an inclusive economy improves the lives of people everywhere and that access to payment solutions is key to the future of digital transactions. For more information, visit Visa.com or Visa Japan.