Mastercard (NYSE:MA) is a leading global payments and technology company that connects consumers, financial institutions, merchants, governments and businesses in more than 210 countries and territories. Founded in 1966 as Interbank Card Association, the company adopted the Mastercard brand in 1979 and went public in 2006. Headquartered in Purchase, New York, Mastercard operates one of the world’s largest electronic payments networks, facilitating secure and efficient transactions across credit, debit, prepaid and commercial card programs.
Through its core network services, Mastercard processes billions of payment transactions annually, leveraging advanced data analytics, tokenization and cybersecurity solutions to ensure speed and safety. The company offers a broad portfolio of products, including consumer credit and debit cards, contactless payment solutions, digital wallets, business payment solutions and loyalty programs. In recent years, Mastercard has also expanded into value-added services such as fraud prevention, consulting, cross-border remittance and real-time payment offerings to support evolving customer needs.
Mastercard’s reach spans every major geography, with regional offices and partnerships across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America and the Middle East and Africa. The company works closely with banks, financial technology firms, governments and merchants to drive the adoption of digital and inclusive payment systems. Initiatives to promote financial inclusion have included support for small merchants, digital identity programs and collaboration with development agencies in emerging markets.
Under the leadership of President and Chief Executive Officer Michael Miebach, who took the helm in January 2021, Mastercard continues to invest in technology innovation, strategic partnerships and sustainable business practices. The company’s management team and board of directors oversee efforts to expand global acceptance of secure, scalable payment solutions while advancing digital commerce and financial inclusion worldwide.
