Mastercard and IFC launch $500 million facility for global digital payments

Mastercard and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, have launched a $500 million global settlement exposure facility. This initiative is designed to expand digital payments and financial services to underserved populations by helping financial institutions in emerging markets, specifically in Europe and Latin America, participate more seamlessly in the Mastercard network.

The facility aims to provide cost-effective access to modern payment infrastructure while maintaining rigorous risk management standards. By connecting capital and technology, the partnership seeks to support micro-, small, and medium-sized businesses and accelerate digitalization within the formal economy.

In a related effort to drive development, IFC Managing Director Makhtar Diop is conducting a three-day visit to Ghana. The mission focuses on mobilizing private sector investment to support national development priorities, including agribusiness, renewable energy, and industrial development. Diop will engage with government officials and business leaders to discuss expanding access to finance and creating jobs through strengthened domestic value chains.