MetaMask has officially expanded its Mastercard-backed crypto payment card to 49 states in the United States, including New York, marking a significant step towards mainstream adoption of cryptocurrency for everyday transactions. This rollout, announced by parent company ConsenSys, leaves only Vermont without access, illustrating the growing acceptance of digital currencies in daily spending.
The MetaMask Card allows users to connect their self-custodied crypto directly with regulated payment systems, enabling seamless spending from their wallets without giving up control of their assets. Unlike traditional custodial crypto cards that necessitate preloading funds onto an exchange, the MetaMask Card retains assets in users” wallets until the payment is processed, enhancing both security and user convenience.
In addition to this launch, MetaMask introduced a $30 million rewards program last year, utilizing LINEA tokens to incentivize users with bonuses, referral rewards, and early access to future MetaMask tokens. The card is supported by Baanx (now known as Monavate) and benefits from the extensive global network of Mastercard, being issued through Cross River Bank. It is accepted wherever Mastercard is utilized, whether online, in physical stores, or through mobile payment platforms like Apple Pay and Google Wallet.
Gal Eldar, Product Lead at MetaMask, expressed enthusiasm about the rollout, stating that the card is designed to integrate cryptocurrency into everyday life so smoothly that the distinction between on-chain and off-chain transactions becomes virtually invisible. He noted that users worldwide have already employed it for a variety of purchases, from coffee to engagement rings.
One of the standout features of the MetaMask Card is its on-chain rewards. Standard cardholders can earn up to 1% back in mUSD, while premium Metal users can receive up to 3% back on their first $10,000 spent annually. Furthermore, users can generate yield by holding tokens like aUSDC through decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms such as Aave.
The card supports multiple chains, allowing a single MetaMask account to manage assets across Ethereum, Solana, and, in the near future, Bitcoin, all within a unified wallet interface. It combines a premium metal design with the convenience of contactless payments, ensuring robust security measures, including Mastercard”s ID theft protection, zero liability policies, and price protection for every transaction.
By linking cryptocurrencies to real-world spending, the MetaMask Card empowers users to access and utilize their digital assets with ease, all while earning rewards. The nationwide expansion signifies a pivotal moment for the increasing integration of cryptocurrency into mainstream finance, where self-custody, effortless payments, and a security-first approach are paramount.
Additionally, MetaMask has enhanced its user experience by introducing a Social Login feature, allowing users to create or restore their wallets through Google or Apple accounts in a secure and user-friendly manner. The nationwide launch of the MetaMask Card transforms cryptocurrency into a practical tool for everyday payments, reinforcing MetaMask”s position as a key player in bridging the gap between digital currencies and traditional financial systems.
