MetaMask to launch self-custody crypto card with Mastercard

MetaMask has partnered with Mastercard, CompoSecure, and Baanx to launch a self-custody crypto payments card, marking a significant step toward bridging decentralized finance with everyday transactions.

The metal card, set for a global release in Q2 2025, allows users to spend crypto directly from their MetaMask wallets without pre-converting assets or relinquishing control.

Funds remain in users’ wallets until the point of sale, secured by smart contracts that execute transactions in under five seconds on the Linea blockchain (Ethereum’s layer-2 network).

The card will work at millions of merchants via Mastercard’s network, with no need for centralized exchange intermediaries.

It is positioned as a safer alternative following high-profile exchange hacks like Bybit’s $1.4 billion breach in February.

MetaMask enters a market dominated by custodial cards from Binance, Coinbase, and Crypto.com, which require users to preload fiat or converted crypto. Its self-custody approach distinguishes it by prioritizing user control, though competitors offer perks like crypto-back rewards.

MetaMask’s move comes as Ethereum ecosystem activity slows: the wallet generated $289,312 in fees for the week of April 14, down from $1.3 million year-over-year. However, the card’s launch aligns with growing crypto payment adoption, including recent integrations by retailers like Spar Switzerland.

The card’s success hinges on user adoption and regulatory developments, as policymakers globally scrutinize crypto’s role in payments.

In the future outlook, MetaMask aims to position the product as a bridge between Web3 and traditional finance, with Baanx’s CCO calling it “the future of non-custodial neobanking”. MetaMask’s card uses Linea for sub-5-second transactions. Global rollout targets Q2 2025. CompoSecure handles metal card design and security. Competing cards lack self-custody features. Pilot testing began in 2024 for EU/UK users.

It's me, @justmythoughts, an ordinary Hive user looking to make the most of the platform. I will appreciate your support. Follow me for more. Thanks, Gracias :)