Visa is testing a new program using stablecoins to streamline payments for freelancers, creators, and businesses. This innovative approach aims to blur the lines between traditional finance and decentralized finance (DeFi) by offering instant access to funds globally. The company announced its expansion of Visa Direct to include stablecoin payouts, allowing users to receive money directly into digital wallets instead of waiting days for standard transfers.
“Launching stablecoin payouts is about enabling truly universal access to money in minutes – not days – for anyone, anywhere in the world,” said Chris Newkirk, president of commercial & money movement solutions at Visa. “Whether it’s a creator building a digital brand, a business reaching new global markets or a freelancer working across borders, everyone benefits from faster, more flexible money movement.”
This pilot program is designed to leverage stablecoins for improved cross-border liquidity and accessibility, particularly in regions with limited banking infrastructure. Stablecoins are digital currencies pegged to fiat currencies like the US dollar, serving as a bridge between traditional financial systems and blockchain technologies.
According to Visa’s 2025 Creator Economy Report, quicker access to payouts was cited as the top reason for creators’ adoption of digital payment methods, with 57% citing instant access to funds as their main concern. This initiative comes at a time when the creator and gig economy is projected to reach $500 billion by 2027.