Visa (V) Tests Stablecoin Payouts to Speed Payments for Creators, Gig Workers

Visa is testing a new Visa Direct pilot that allows businesses to send dollar-backed stablecoins, such as USDC, directly to users' digital wallets, enabling near-instant access to earnings. This initiative specifically targets creators, freelancers, and gig workers who often face delays receiving pay, especially across international borders. While businesses can fund the payouts in fiat currency, recipients can opt to receive them in stablecoins. Visa states this expands financial access for individuals in regions with volatile currencies or limited banking infrastructure, leveraging blockchain transparency. Chris Newkirk, president of Commercial & Money Movement Solutions at Visa, emphasized the goal is enabling "truly universal access to money in minutes — not days." This phase builds upon an earlier pilot involving stablecoin pre-funding and is planned for a broader rollout in 2026 as regulations and demand evolve.

(Source：CoinDesk)