Visa Expands Stablecoin Settlement Access Across CEMEA

Visa expanded its stablecoin settlement capabilities in a major way, giving financial institutions across Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa a far smoother path to settle payments using digital dollars. The move strengthens Visa’s effort to modernize cross-border money movement and reduce the friction tied to legacy systems that often slow down settlement times.

Good to Know

• Visa expanded stablecoin settlement access to financial institutions across the CEMEA region.
• A new partnership with Aquanow supports faster, lower-cost settlement infrastructure.
• Visa’s stablecoin settlement volume has reached a $2.5 billion annualized run rate.

Visa announced a collaboration with Aquanow designed to bring faster and more efficient stablecoin settlements to banks and payment firms throughout the CEMEA region. The integration aims to streamline the process, reduce operational bottlenecks, and help institutions avoid the traditional hurdles of correspondent banking networks.

Growing demand for faster and cheaper cross-border payment options pushed Visa to accelerate its digital settlement efforts. Financial institutions have increasingly looked for alternatives that improve settlement timeframes without compromising security or oversight.

Visa Builds on Early Stablecoin Success

Visa became one of the earliest global payment networks to settle transactions in stablecoins in 2023, starting with USDC. Since then, usage has expanded sharply, and the company now processes a stablecoin settlement run rate of roughly $2.5 billion annually. The rise in volume indicates strong institutional interest in using digital currencies to support faster global payments.

Aquanow CEO Phil Sham highlighted the value of the new collaboration. He said:

“Visa’s network has always been a trusted powerhouse in moving money securely and efficiently. By combining our expertise in digital assets with their global reach, we’re unlocking new ways for institutions to take part in the digital economy, all while benefiting from the speed and transparency of the internet.”

FAQ

Which regions will benefit from the expanded settlement access?

Financial institutions across Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

Why is Visa collaborating with Aquanow?

To support faster and more efficient stablecoin settlement rails for banks and payment firms.

What stablecoin does Visa currently use for settlement?

USDC is the primary stablecoin used in Visa’s settlement program.

How large is Visa’s stablecoin settlement volume?

The company reports a $2.5 billion annualized run rate.

What advantage does this bring to institutions?

Quicker settlement times, lower operational costs, and fewer delays compared to traditional cross-border systems.