Stablecoin cards: 4 updates on global payments and taxes

Payment gateways and global payment networks are combining fiat currencies and stablecoins into cards and unified APIs to streamline international transactions. Meanwhile, the Spanish tax authority anticipates postponing Verifactu obligations until late 2028, reshaping software implementation timelines for businesses and self-employed professionals across the region.

Issuance of multi-currency cards backed by stablecoins

Stripe and Plasma have announced a collaboration to roll out multi-currency cards backed by stablecoins, according to a report on stablecoin cards published by Finextra. This rollout allows consumers and businesses to complete commercial payments across different currencies and markets without complex prior conversions. For online merchants, it simplifies collecting payments from customers who hold balances in stable digital assets without taking on direct currency volatility.

Unified fiat and stablecoin connectivity through single API

Mastercard has combined its global payment infrastructure with BVNK's stablecoin capabilities within a unified interface, as described in an article on the global platform by Finextra. This setup connects traditional fiat settlement with decentralized networks in a single technical environment for international merchant settlements and transfers. Introducing these capabilities limits operational friction when processing cross-border payments, an issue analyzed in our guide on fricción en cobros transfronterizos.

Expected postponement of the Verifactu mandate until 2028

The Spanish Ministry of Finance plans to defer the mandatory enforcement of Verifactu until October 2028 for SMEs and self-employed professionals, according to a story on the Verifactu postponement in Pymes y Autónomos based on an informative briefing relayed by Europa Press. This adjustment aims to align implementation dates with mandatory electronic B2B invoicing, although the official text in the BOE still lists 2027 dates until legal amendments are enacted. Businesses billing in Spain gain planning leeway, but should consult an advisor and monitor our sección de actualidad tributaria before pausing compliance efforts.

Utility cost reduction in professional premises

Opening single-lever taps from the cold position prevents water heaters from triggering unnecessarily during brief use, according to an article on utility invoice savings featured in Pymes y Autónomos. The practical advice, shared on social platforms by professional plumbers like El Fonta Joan and backed by Fundación Vital data, indicates that hot water rarely reaches the outlet during quick hand washes. For independent operators maintaining workshops or customer-facing offices, this habit reduces regular overheads without requiring new equipment.

Frequently asked questions

What are the Stripe and Plasma multi-currency stablecoin cards?

The Stripe and Plasma multi-currency stablecoin cards are cards linked to stablecoin balances that, according to Finextra, let individuals and businesses pay across currencies and markets without prior conversions. For an online merchant, they open the door to taking payments from customers who keep their liquidity in stablecoins.

What does the joint Mastercard and BVNK platform offer?

The joint Mastercard and BVNK platform brings fiat payments and stablecoin payments together in a single API, according to Finextra. For merchants paid in several currencies, it means handling international collections and transfers from one technical environment instead of maintaining separate integrations for each type of money.

When will Verifactu become mandatory for freelancers and SMEs?

Verifactu becomes mandatory in 2027 under the dates currently published in the BOE. The Spanish tax authority plans to postpone it to October 2028 for SMEs and freelancers, according to Pymes y Autónomos, but the change is not yet approved, so keep adapting your invoicing software and check with an adviser.

What to watch next week

Merchants should check whether the Spanish tax authority issues an official decree in the BOE confirming the Verifactu extension or retains the 2027 deadlines. On payment infrastructure, watch for geographic availability details regarding the newly announced solutions from Stripe and Mastercard.