Visa, the global payments giant, has introduced a project that aims to be a “universal adapter” of blockchains that can connect multiple cryptocurrencies, stablecoins as well as central bank digital currencies (CBDC).
It has been reported that Visa’s research team is working on a “Universal Payment Channel” (UPC) initiative, a blockchain interoperability hub connecting multiple blockchain networks and enabling transfers of digital assets from different protocols and wallets.
Visa wrote:
“Imagine splitting the check with your friends, when everyone at the table is using a different type of money — some using a central bank digital currency [...] like Sweden’s eKrona, and others preferring a private stablecoin like USDC.”
Visa added that such a tool “well may be a reality” in the “not-too-distant future” with the UPC project.
The report said that the UPC project, developed by Visa’s research and product teams, is designed to establish dedicated payment channels between different blockchain networks, connecting CBDC networks between countries as well as connecting CBDCs with private stablecoin networks.
Likewise, the Visa research team originally began working on the UPC concept back in 2018, developing an interoperability framework that would run independently of the underlying blockchain mechanisms.
The announcement read:
“Ultimately, the UPC solution aims to serve as a network of blockchain networks — adding value to multiple forms of money movement, whether they originate on the Visa network, or beyond.”
Visa made a major move into the crypto industry in 2020, partnering with blockchain firm Circle to support the USD Coin (USDC) stablecoin on certain credit cards.
Thus, the company has since reaffirmed its commitment to crypto payments and fiat on-ramps, with a particular focus on stablecoin integrations.
Source: Cointelegraph