Visa Direct Stablecoin Payouts Pilot Aims to Improve Access to Funds for Gig Workers

Core Insights - Visa Inc. has launched a pilot program allowing businesses to send payouts directly to recipients' stablecoin wallets, enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of payouts [1][2] - The initiative targets digital creators, freelancers, and marketplaces, providing them with a stable store of value and faster access to funds, especially in regions with currency volatility or limited banking infrastructure [2][3] Group 1: Visa Direct and Stablecoin Payouts - Visa Direct now enables businesses to fund payouts in fiat money while recipients can opt for USD-backed stablecoins like USDC [1] - The pilot program aims to provide universal access to money in minutes rather than days, benefiting creators, businesses, and freelancers [2] - Research indicates that 57% of digital content creators prefer digital payment methods for instant access to funds [2] Group 2: Features and Future Plans - The Visa Direct Stablecoin Payout offers near-instant access to payouts in stablecoins, enhancing convenience for consumers and freelancers [3] - Stablecoins provide borderless currency access, particularly for underbanked regions or where USD bank accounts are unavailable [3] - The pilot will initially launch with select partners, with plans for a broader rollout in the second half of 2026 as client demand and regulatory frameworks evolve [3]