Who Will Power the Future of Global Payments?

As digital assets move closer to mainstream finance, payment networks, fintech companies, and crypto firms are racing to shape the next generation of global payments. Initiatives such as the crypto partner program launched by Mastercard—bringing together exchanges, fintechs, and banks—highlight the growing effort to connect blockchain-based systems with traditional payment rails. From cross-border transfers and B2B payments to global payouts, the challenge is no longer just innovation but integration. This session explores who will ultimately power the infrastructure behind global payments and how partnerships between traditional finance and digital asset companies could accelerate adoption. Who will control the rails of global payments: banks, fintechs, or crypto firms? Can blockchain improve cross-border payments and settlement speed? Are partnerships between traditional payment networks and crypto companies the key to scale? What regulatory and infrastructure challenges remain?