Mastercard announced(Opens in a new window) a new partnership today that makes it much easier for consumers to be offered cryptocurrency cards and loyalty programs

Mastercard is partnering with Bakkt(Opens in a new window), which focuses on managing digital assets (cryptocurrency, gift cards, rewards), to enable merchants, banks, and fintechs within the US to more easily embrace cryptocurrency and offer it to consumers.

What that means in reality is more banks can start offering Mastercard-backed, crypto-focused debit and credit cards, as well as the ability to hold digital currency just like they do with the dollar. Loyalty