EMURGO and Wirex Launch First Cardano Card, Expanding ADA Use in Crypto Payments

Quick Breakdown 

• EMURGO and Wirex launch the first Cardano Card, enabling ADA and crypto spending globally.
• Cardholders can access over 685 cryptocurrencies, earn up to 8% cashback, and utilize DeFi features.
• Phase two, in 2026, will introduce a non-custodial Cardano Card, providing complete user control and security.

 

EMURGO, the commercial arm of the Cardano blockchain, has partnered with digital payments platform Wirex to launch the first-ever Cardano Card, as announced at the Cardano Summit 2025. The multi-chain crypto card, available in plastic, metal, and virtual versions, integrates directly with the Wirex app, giving over six million users worldwide instant access to spend ADA and other cryptocurrencies for everyday transactions.

The launch represents Cardano’s most significant foray into digital payments, bridging on-chain finance with mainstream fintech. Cardano Card holders can access Wirex’s complete crypto ecosystem, including yield-generating X-Accounts, structured trading products, and lending services. The card also supports more than 685 cryptocurrencies and stablecoins, including ADA, BTC, ETH, and USDC, usable anywhere Visa is accepted.

We’re excited to announce our strategic partnership with @emurgo_io to issue the first-ever @Cardano Card! 💳

The @cardano_card is designed to empower the Cardano community with real-world spending options, allowing $ADA to be used effortlessly for everyday purchases. pic.twitter.com/V5fRGi8tdo

— Wirex (@wirexapp) November 11, 2025

Crypto utility and rewards drive adoption

Users of the Cardano Card can earn up to 8% crypto cashback, receive referral bonuses, and benefit from low foreign exchange fees and access to ATMs. EMURGO confirmed that a portion of profits will be directed to the Cardano Treasury, reinforcing ecosystem growth. The project’s next phase, planned for 2026, will introduce a non-custodial Cardano Card, providing users with full control over their digital assets while accessing DeFi features such as loans and yield farming.

Mainstream expansion signals growth for ADA

Wirex, a leading UK-based cryptocurrency payments platform that has processed over $20 billion in digital assets, highlights the growing adoption of cryptocurrency in daily payments. Industry data shows more than 31 million crypto wallets are used for everyday transactions globally, signaling significant market potential. EMURGO CEO Phillip Pon emphasized the card’s role in making Cardano spendable in real-world transactions while connecting blockchain innovation to mainstream finance.

The Cardano Summit 2025, held November 12–13 in Berlin, brings together over 75 industry leaders and regulators, further cementing Cardano’s push into global crypto payments and adoption.

In a related development, Wirex Pay has partnered with Schuman Financial to improve the accessibility and liquidity of EURØP, a fully regulated euro-backed stablecoin designed for secure and compliant digital transactions.

 

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