Mastercard and SoFi enable Orbi to launch crypto‑linked debit card in Mexico
Mastercard and SoFi are helping Orbi launch a crypto‑linked debit card in Mexico, where stablecoins made up 40% of crypto purchases in 2025. The card lets users spend either fiat or crypto balances at checkout while merchants receive traditional fiat, and SoFi supplies the BIN sponsorship, issuance, authorization, processing and compliance infrastructure. The program is available to Orbi customers across Mexico and does not require merchants to alter their existing point‑of‑sale systems.
SoFi’s role includes providing the bank identification number, handling transaction approvals, and ensuring compliance with local regulations.
“Mexico is one of the world’s largest remittance markets, and stablecoins are becoming an increasingly important way to move money across its borders,” Kathleen Pierce-Gilmore, SoFi Tech Solutions President said.
In 2025, stablecoins accounted for 40% of crypto purchases among Bitso users in Mexico, Argentina, Brazil and Colombia, surpassing bitcoin’s 18% share. A PYMNTS Intelligence report released in July found that consumers are interested in using crypto for purchases but face acceptance, trust and uneven payment experiences, noting that linked cards could help bridge the gap.
What we know
Stablecoins accounted for 40% of crypto purchases among users of the crypto app Bitso last year in Mexico, Argentina, Brazil and Colombia in 2025, according to the release.
That’s compared to 18% for bitcoin, marking the first time stablecoins overtook bitcoin in Bitso’s regional purchase data.
Linked cards can boost acceptance without asking merchants to change checkout, and 71% of stablecoin holders said they would use a linked debit card to spend those digital assets.
The PYMNTS Intelligence report “From Asset to Everyday Money: Making Digital Currencies Spendable,” found in July that consumers are showing increased interest in using cryptocurrencies and stablecoins for purchases, but acceptance, trust and uneven payment experiences continue to limit their choices, PYMNTS reported Aug. 17.
SoFi will provide the BIN sponsorship and financial technology infrastructure upholding the Orbi card program, per the release.