Crypto.com Partners with Mastercard to Launch Payment Cards in Bahrain

A strategic relationship between Mastercard and Crypto.com was announced on December 4. This partnership gives the cryptocurrency platform a main license to issue cards on Mastercard’s worldwide payment network. By this partnership, Crypto.com will be able to launch a payment card in Bahrain that will provide cardholders access to over 150 million Mastercard-accepting retailers internationally.

Through the Crypto.com app, users will now be able to fund their cards using third-party credit and debit cards or e-money wallets. All five card tiers provided by Crypto.com, including the high-end Black Obsidian tier, will be supported by the payment mechanism. Depending on the tier, these cards will pay up to 8% rewards on purchases and be valued in US dollars.

The move represents an important step in bringing cryptocurrencies into the mainstream by enabling real-world payments with digital assets. By partnering with Mastercard, Crypto.com aims to further bridge the gap between traditional finance and the world of cryptocurrencies.

Focusing on Security and Compliance

According to Karl Mohan, General Manager for Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa at Crypto.com, this partnership highlights the company’s commitment to both security and compliance as it expands its presence in the region. “Mastercard has shown its support for the digital assets industry by creating a robust card programme service that’s specifically tailored for our customers, allowing us to expand our product offering into new markets whilst proving our continued commitment to the highest levels of security and compliance,” Mohan said.

Mastercard’s expertise also adds an additional layer of security, according to Amnah Ajmal, the company’s Executive Vice President for Market Development in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Ajmal emphasized that the collaboration will offer Crypto.com enhanced fraud prevention and transaction security, alongside access to Mastercard’s vast global network.

This launch in Bahrain marks the beginning of Crypto.com’s broader initiative to expand its prepaid card offerings across the GCC region. Serving as a pilot, this move is expected to pave the way for further expansions in the Middle East and beyond. By integrating with Mastercard’s infrastructure, Crypto.com seeks to make cryptocurrency more accessible for daily use while maintaining secure, scalable digital payment solutions.