In a recent CNBC interview on June 24, 2025, Visa CEO Ryan McInerney shared a hopeful view on cryptocurrencies and tokenized real-world assets (RWAs). He said Visa has been getting ready for stablecoins for years.
The company is updating its systems to support these digital currencies. This step could change how money moves around the world, especially in places where local currencies lose value fast.
What Are Stablecoins and Tokenized Assets?
Stablecoins are cryptocurrencies linked to steady assets like the U.S. dollar. This keeps their value more constant than other digital coins. Tokenized RWAs are things like real estate or gold turned into digital tokens on a blockchain. This makes them simpler to trade or own in smaller pieces.
McInerney pointed out three big uses for stablecoins. First, they work well in capital markets, where people trade cryptocurrencies worldwide. Second, they help in places with shaky currencies or tight money rules. Here, stablecoins can make U.S. dollars easier to get and cheaper to use. Third, they shine in cross-border payments, like sending cash to family abroad or businesses settling bills across countries.
He stressed that the real potential lies outside the U.S. “The product market fit is outside the U.S.,” McInerney said, focusing on areas where U.S. dollars are hard to come by or cost too much.
Visa’s Big Moves
In October 2024, Visa launched the Visa Tokenized Asset Platform (VTAP). This lets banks create tokens backed by regular money, like dollars, on the Ethereum blockchain. A Spanish bank, BBVA, is set to try it out soon.
This push comes at a good time. The U.S. Senate passed the GENIUS Act, and it’s expected to pass the House. This law will make rules for stablecoins clearer. McInerney said this is a win for new ideas in cryptocurrency.
A Growing Market
The market for tokenized RWAs is taking off. A Chainalysis report from June 5, 2025, says it grew 260% in 2025, hitting $23 billion in assets. Clearer U.S. rules are helping, with tokenized loans and Treasury debt leading the charge.
Still, there are hurdles. Companies have to follow U.S. securities laws and register with the SEC. Even so, the RWA market hit $10.62 billion in June 2025, up 61% from earlier in the year.
Why This Matters Globally
Visa’s plans fit into a bigger shift. Financial companies are exploring blockchain to improve old-school money systems. With over 5 billion cards and 150 million businesses in its network, Visa has a strong starting point. McInerney noted this scale sets Visa apart.
Some worry big companies making stablecoins could push out traditional payments. McInerney disagreed. “Visa offers trust, ease of use, and scale,” he said. “With 5 billion Visa cards, 14 billion tokens, and 150 million businesses choosing Visa today, that’s where we stand out.”
Picture living where your money’s value drops overnight. Stablecoins could steady things and make sending cash abroad simpler. This could help people in countries with unpredictable economies hold onto their savings or pay for things across borders without high fees.
Looking Forward
Visa’s focus on cryptocurrencies and tokenized assets shows they’re planning ahead. By adding these tools to their network, they aim to make money services better and more available worldwide. The industry is watching closely, especially with growing markets and new laws paving the way.
