Visa Expands to 9 Blockchains as $7B Stablecoin Boom Accelerates

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• Visa now supports 9 blockchains, expanding its stablecoin settlement network.
  
• Stablecoin volume hit a $7B run rate, growing 50% QoQ.
  
• Competition from Mastercard and PayPal is accelerating blockchain adoption.

Global payments giant Visa is accelerating its push into blockchain-based payments, adding five new networks to its stablecoin settlement pilot program. The move reflects growing demand for faster, cheaper cross-border transactions and signals increasing confidence in on-chain financial infrastructure.

The newly supported chains include Circle’s Arc, Coinbase-incubated Base, Canton, Polygon, and Stripe-backed Tempo. With these additions, Visa now supports a total of nine blockchains as it builds out a multi-chain settlement ecosystem.

Stablecoin Settlement Growth Accelerates

Visa’s latest expansion comes on the back of strong adoption metrics. In the first quarter of 2026, the company reported a $7 billion annualized run rate in stablecoin settlements, representing a 50% increase quarter-over-quarter.

This growth highlights a broader shift toward blockchain rails as a practical alternative to traditional payment systems. Stablecoin transactions, often settled in seconds and at significantly lower costs, are increasingly being viewed as a viable complement—not just an experiment.

According to company executives, the expansion into multiple chains is designed to meet partners where they are. Businesses are no longer building on a single blockchain; instead, they are operating across diverse ecosystems, requiring flexible payment solutions that can integrate seamlessly.

Competition Heats Up Among Payment Giants

Visa’s move comes as major rivals ramp up their own blockchain strategies. Mastercard recently acquired stablecoin infrastructure firm BVNK in a deal valued at over $1.8 billion, aiming to strengthen its global crypto payment capabilities. The company has also launched a crypto partner program involving dozens of firms, including major exchanges.

Meanwhile, PayPal has taken a more direct route by launching its own stablecoin, PYUSD. The firm has expanded its crypto offerings with peer-to-peer payments and yield features, while also cutting cross-border transaction fees significantly to stay competitive.

Other financial service providers, including remittance-focused firms, are also integrating stablecoin support, reflecting a wider industry trend. Blockchain-based payments are quickly becoming a key differentiator in a space long dominated by high fees and slow settlement times.

Stablecoins Reshape the Payments Landscape

The rapid adoption of stablecoins is reshaping global finance. With transaction costs approaching zero and settlement speeds improving dramatically, traditional payment rails are facing increasing pressure to evolve.

Also Read: Bitcoin Goes Mainstream: Lightspark Unveils AI Remittance Platform With Visa

The stablecoin market itself has grown substantially, reaching a total supply of around $320 billion, according to industry data. As infrastructure improves and regulatory clarity advances, adoption is expected to expand further.

Visa’s expansion into additional blockchains underscores a pivotal moment for digital payments. As stablecoins move from niche use cases to mainstream financial tools, the competition among global payment providers is intensifying. The race is now centered on speed, cost efficiency, and flexibility—areas where blockchain technology continues to gain ground.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The author’s views are personal and may not reflect the views of Chain Affairs. Before making any investment decisions, you should always conduct your own research. Chain Affairs is not responsible for any financial losses.