Kazakhstan is moving forward with Bitcoin-powered innovation as the country rolls out cryptocurrency-linked payment cards, making digital assets like Bitcoin usable for daily purchases. These cards will connect to wallets held at regulated crypto platforms under the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC).
Kazakhstan to introduce Bitcoin-based crypto cards.
The initiative was introduced during a high-level meeting between the National Bank of Kazakhstan, local banks, cryptocurrency exchanges, and fintech firms. The aim is to integrate Bitcoin into everyday life while maintaining compliance and security.
The new payment process is designed to be seamless. When a user makes a purchase using the crypto card, the selected cryptocurrency—such as Bitcoin—is instantly converted into Kazakhstan’s national currency. The funds are then transferred to the card in real time, enabling payment in fiat while preserving the user experience of spending crypto.
This real-time crypto-to-fiat conversion is possible thanks to deep cooperation between Kazakhstan’s banks and licensed crypto providers operating under the AIFC.
In addition to the crypto card program, Kazakhstan’s central bank is pushing several other digital finance initiatives. These include the development of a national currency-backed stablecoin, the tokenization of real-world assets like property, and the implementation of secure systems for storing digital financial instruments.
The country is also building infrastructure for easier cryptocurrency storage and exchange, aiming to encourage innovation and digital transformation within its financial sector.
With the launch of these Bitcoin-based crypto cards and a broader embrace of blockchain technology, Kazakhstan positions itself as a growing hub for regulated crypto-financial services.
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