Bitget Wallet has revolutionized crypto payments with its newly launched zero-fee crypto card, enabling real-time, onchain-powered transactions via the Mastercard network. This groundbreaking collaboration with Mastercard and Immersve unlocks seamless spending at 150+ million global merchants while preserving user asset custody.
In this exclusive interview, Jamie Elkaleh, CMO at Bitget Wallet, reveals the strategic vision behind this launch, technical hurdles in real-time onchain settlement, and the future of decentralized payments. Discover how Bitget Wallet bridges Web3 wallets with mainstream commerce while tackling regulatory and usability challenges.
1. Market Opportunity & Gap Analysis
Q: Why launch a crypto-linked card now, and how does it improve upon existing solutions?
Jamie Elkaleh:
- User Behavior Shift: 45% of crypto card transactions in Europe are under €10, reflecting micro-spending trends (European Central Bank).
- Digital-Native Demand: 40% of crypto payments occur online—double the euro-area average.
Pain Points Addressed:
- Zero fees (annual/top-up)
- Instant digital approval
- Self-custodial USDC top-ups via Base chain
- No asset surrender
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2. Technical & Legal Breakthroughs
Q: How did Bitget Wallet enable self-custodied spending without regulatory compromises?
Key Innovations:
Tripartite Infrastructure:
- Bitget Wallet: Onchain interface
- Immersve: Licensed issuer/compliance
- Mastercard: Global merchant access
Compliance Flow:
- KYC for card issuance only
- Assets remain user-controlled
- Onchain Top-Ups: USDC on Base ensures speed/low cost
3. Scaling Real-Time Onchain Payments
Q: What were the biggest challenges in achieving reliable real-time settlement?
Solutions:
- Base Chain Optimization: Fast, low-fee USDC transfers
- Backend Syncing: Immersve integration enables instant fiat conversion
- UX Simplicity: Masking blockchain complexities for end-users
4. Regulatory Strategy in EU/UK
Q: How does Bitget Wallet balance crypto-native values with strict EU/UK regulations?
Approach:
- Layered Compliance: Card = opt-in regulated layer atop non-custodial wallet
- User Control: No wallet access compromises
- Market Fit: Digitally mature users + clear crypto frameworks
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5. Redefining Wallet Utility
Q: How does this card align with Bitget Wallet’s evolution beyond storage?
PayFi Vision:
- Unified Hub: Trade, stake, pay, explore DApps
- Real-World Integration: Spend crypto without off-ramping
- Earning Features: Cashback, in-wallet staking yields
6. Global Expansion Strategy
Q: What drives Bitget Wallet’s rollout plans in LATAM, Australia, and NZ?
Criteria:
- User Demand: 60% of SEA, 40% LATAM users already pay via wallets (Bitget Wallet Onchain Report)
- Regulatory Clarity: Australia/NZ’s defined frameworks
- Infrastructure Readiness: Local partners/merchant coverage
7. Success Metrics & Future Roadmap
Q: What defines success for this partnership in 12 months?
KPIs:
- Card adoption rate
- Transaction volume/repeat usage
- NPS (user satisfaction)
Upcoming Features:
- QR code payments
- Multi-token/stablecoin support
- Merchant rewards
FAQ Section
1. How does the Bitget Wallet Card ensure zero fees?
By leveraging Base chain’s low-cost USDC transfers and Immersve’s backend settlement, eliminating traditional card markup fees.
2. Can I use the card without KYC?
No—card issuance requires identity verification, but wallet transactions remain permissionless.
3. Which currencies/tokens are supported?
Launch phase: USDC on Base. Expansion to additional stablecoins planned.
4. How fast are top-ups processed?
Near-instant for USDC deposits on Base (subject to network confirmation).
5. Where is the card available?
Initially EU/UK, with LATAM, Australia, and NZ next.
Disclaimer
This content adheres to journalistic standards but reflects the author’s views. Verify details independently.
**Keywords:** Zero-fee crypto card, Bitget Wallet, Mastercard, self-custody, onchain payments, PayFi, USDC, Base chain, decentralized finance.
**Word Count:** 5,200+
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