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MoneyGram launches Visa stablecoin card as remittance rivals expand
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- DeepHorus
MoneyGram is launching a Visa-branded stablecoin debit card, following rival Western Union's similar move last month. The MoneyGram Card will initially debut as a virtual card in Colombia, usable with Apple Wallet and Google Wallet. The company said it plans to introduce a physical card and expand to additional markets later this year.
The launch extends MoneyGram's deepening push into blockchain-based payments. In June, it launched its MGUSD stablecoin on the Stellar network, integrating it with its proprietary app through a self-custodial wallet. Last month, it announced a link with the Solana wallet as part of its expanding crypto ramps. Western Union unveiled its Stablecard last month, also working with infrastructure provider Rain.
MoneyGram is working with Rain on the new card, the same provider supporting Western Union's product. The World Bank has identified stablecoins as a key tool in reducing the cost of global remittances. Its September 2025 analysis found that debit cards are the lowest-cost instrument to receive remittances, at 3.61% of the transmitted amount.
The move signals that major remittance firms see stablecoins as a bridge between traditional finance and digital assets. By offering Visa-branded cards, MoneyGram and Western Union make it easier for users to spend stablecoin balances in everyday transactions. This competition could accelerate adoption of blockchain-based payment rails and pressure other providers to follow.
The rapid succession of launches reflects growing institutional acceptance of stablecoins. The World Bank data provides a clear economic rationale: lower-cost receiving methods benefit migrants and their families. Both companies appear to be prioritizing regulatory-compliant infrastructure through their partnership with Rain.
MoneyGram plans to roll out a physical version of the card as it enters additional markets later this year. Competition with Western Union is likely to intensify as both expand their stablecoin ecosystems. Further wallet and blockchain integrations may follow, and the coming months will show whether stablecoin cards become a standard remittance offering.
