Western Union unveiled a prepaid card that accepts USD-denominated stablecoin payments, expanding its payments ecosystem to include digital assets. The initiative targets markets with high inflation and currency volatility, aiming to streamline everyday transactions for at‑risk economies.
CFO Matthew Cagwin said the card is designed to bolster purchasing power where the local currency has sharply depreciated, with Argentina cited as a case where inflation surpassed 200% last year.
The program centers on the USD-stablecoin USDPT, alongside a forthcoming digital asset network intended to connect digital rails with fiat usage, expanding real-world utility for crypto in remittances and payments. Listing for USDPT is anticipated in the first half of 2026.
By bridging crypto and traditional finance, the move could enhance remittance efficiency and financial inclusion, offering a measurable uplift to users relying on cross‑border transfers and volatile currencies.