IFC, Mastercard and Visa Launch $700 Million Emerging-Market Payments Push

Banks and fintech companies in emerging markets often face capital and credit requirements that restrict their access to global payment networks, leaving consumers and small businesses dependent on cash. The International Finance Corporation, the World Bank Group’s private-sector arm, is using guarantees to absorb part of the settlement risk, lowering barriers for local institutions to offer secure digital payments and drawing underserved customers into the formal financial system.

IFC announced the initiative with Mastercard and Visa on Sept. 9, 2026, providing up to $700 million in guarantees. Mastercard’s global facility totals $500 million, while Visa’s five-year program covers about $200 million and initially targets roughly 50 institutions in 14 Latin American and Caribbean countries. IFC estimates the initiative could generate about $280 billion in digital payments, 360 million additional cards and 90 million active users, including 39 million women.