In a bold move to fuse the worlds of digital assets and traditional banking, Standard Chartered has announced its role as the principal banking partner for DeCard, a groundbreaking credit card that allows users to spend stablecoins seamlessly in daily transactions.
The collaboration with DCS Card Centre kicks off in Singapore, a hub for fintech innovation, with plans to roll out to other global markets.DeCard, developed by DCS Card Centre, promises to democratize stablecoin usage by making it as straightforward as swiping a conventional credit card.
Users can load their cards with stablecoins—cryptocurrencies pegged to stable assets like the U.S. dollar to minimize volatility—and spend at millions of merchants worldwide without the hassle of manual conversions or price fluctuations. “We’re blending the stability of digital assets with the familiarity of traditional payment systems,” a DCS spokesperson said in the announcement.
The partnership leverages Singapore’s progressive regulatory environment, where authorities have actively supported pilots for digital payments and blockchain technologies. This aligns with the city-state’s vision to become a leading crypto-friendly financial center.
The companies revealed the news on Tuesday, highlighting how DeCard integrates with existing payment rails, enabling real-time transactions at point-of-sale terminals, online checkout, or even contactless payments.At the heart of the integration is Standard Chartered’s technical backbone.
The bank will supply virtual account services and API connectivity, allowing DCS to instantly verify, process, and reconcile payments from DeCard holders. This setup not only accelerates transaction speeds but also enhances transparency, reducing the risks associated with crypto volatility. “Our infrastructure ensures that stablecoin payments are reconciled in real-time, providing a secure bridge between digital wallets and fiat systems,” explained a Standard Chartered representative in the joint press release.
Industry experts see this as a significant step toward mainstream crypto adoption. “Stablecoins have exploded in popularity for cross-border payments and remittances, but spending them like cash has been a barrier,” noted fintech analyst Jane Lim from a Singapore-based think tank. “DeCard could accelerate the convergence of DeFi and TradFi, especially in Asia where digital payment adoption is skyrocketing.”
The launch comes amid growing institutional interest in stablecoins, with global volumes surpassing trillions in annual transactions. Standard Chartered, a veteran in emerging markets banking, has been expanding its crypto offerings, including custody services and blockchain pilots.
DCS Card Centre, known for innovative payment solutions, positions DeCard as a user-friendly entry point for crypto holders wary of traditional exchanges.While details on exact rollout timelines for international expansion remain under wraps, the companies teased “major markets” in Europe and Asia-Pacific.
Early adopters in Singapore will gain access through a phased beta, with full public availability expected soon.This initiative underscores a broader trend: banks are no longer shying away from crypto but are actively building the ramps to integrate it into everyday finance. As stablecoins inch closer to regulatory clarity worldwide, partnerships like this could redefine how we pay, save, and transact in the digital age.
Naorem Mohen is the Editor of Signpost News. Explore his views and opinion on X: @laimacha.
Naorem Mohen
View More PostsNaorem Mohen is the Editor of Signpost News. Explore his views and opinion on X: @laimacha.
