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Mastercard: How Big Is the Stablecoin Opportunity After the BVNK Acquisition?

Mastercard Incorporated reported solid results for the first quarter of 2026, building on momentum from the previous year. The company’s net revenue grew by 12%, and net income increased by 15% on a currency-neutral, non-GAAP basis, reflecting a resilient payment network supported by healthy consumer and business spending globally. Despite uncertainties arising from geopolitical tensions, particularly the conflict in the Middle East impacting cross-border travel, Mastercard’s diversified global reach — with acceptance locations expanded nearly 70% in five years across 150 currencies — contributed to the strength of its financial performance. Key growth drivers included an 8% rise in payment network net revenue and an 18% increase in value-added services (VAS) revenue, which benefited from strong demand for security solutions, digital and authentication services, business and market insights, and consumer engagement. Gross dollar volume grew by 7% worldwide, with U.S. volumes increasing 4% and international volumes up 9%.