Ripple enters execution with Mastercard, using RLUSD on XRPL for near-instant card settlements as stablecoins go native on the network.
Ripple has moved from testing to active execution with Mastercard as blockchain-based settlement expands into live card payments.
Mastercard CEO Michael Miebach confirmed the shift from concept to execution, marking a new stage for stablecoin use in regulated payment networks.
Partnership Moves From Pilot to Live Execution
The collaboration between Ripple, Mastercard, WebBank, and Gemini entered execution in February 2026.
The partnership follows a live pilot that launched in late 2025. It focuses on settling real credit card transactions using blockchain infrastructure.
The system uses Ripple’s regulated stablecoin RLUSD on the XRP Ledger.
This setup replaces traditional interbank clearing, which often takes one to three days. Settlements now occur within seconds at the back end.
The Gemini Credit Card, issued by WebBank, is the first product using this structure. The deployment shifts the pilot into a production environment.
Mastercard management views this as part of its long-term settlement strategy.
Stablecoins Become Part of Mastercard’s Core Network
Mastercard has confirmed that its collaboration with Ripple has moved from the concept stage into active execution.
CEO Michael Miebach stated that the partnership is now focused on deploying blockchain-based solutions within Mastercard’s payment infrastructure.
Through the Ripple partnership, Mastercard is expanding its settlement capabilities using blockchain technology.
Stablecoins are now treated as a native currency on the Mastercard network, allowing for faster and more efficient settlement processes while maintaining regulatory standards.
In addition, Mastercard is advancing agentic commerce with the launch of “Agent Pay.”
This initiative is designed to support AI-driven transactions, enabling automated payment execution while keeping existing consumer payment experiences unchanged.
How Blockchain Settlement Works in Practice
The settlement process remains invisible to cardholders. Consumers continue using familiar tap-to-pay experiences. Changes occur only within the payment infrastructure.
Mastercard handles transaction authorization and credit checks in real time. Once approved, RLUSD settles the transaction on the XRP Ledger within seconds.
This replaces batch-based clearing between financial institutions.
WebBank provides regulatory oversight as an FDIC-insured bank. This ensures blockchain settlements comply with U.S. banking rules.
Compliance controls remain aligned with existing card regulations.
Related Reading: Ripple Wins $2B Brokerage as XRP Powers Faster Institutional Payments
Strategic Direction for 2026 and Beyond
Ripple executives expect broader on-chain settlement adoption by the end of 2026. They estimate that 5 to 10% of capital market settlements could move on-chain.
Institutional pilots are driving this shift. RLUSD circulation has grown steadily. Supply surpassed $1.3 billion by January 2026.
Growth reflects increased demand from payment and settlement use cases.
Mastercard is also expanding into agentic commerce. The company plans to launch “Agent Pay” for AI-driven transactions.
This supports automated payments while maintaining regulatory controls.
Source: https://www.livebitcoinnews.com/ripple-enters-execution-phase-at-mastercard-as-blockchain-settlement-expands/
