Highnote Launches 24/7 Stablecoin Funding with BVNK

Highnote has partnered with BVNK to launch round-the-clock stablecoin funding for card programmes, marking the first such arrangement in the embedded finance sector. 

The collaboration allows Highnote subscribers to fund US-based programme accounts instantly using stablecoins that convert automatically to dollars.

The service operates continuously, including nights, weekends and holidays, removing the constraints of traditional banking hours. Programme funds transfer via stablecoins before automatic conversion to US dollars and deposit into sponsor bank accounts in real-time.

BVNK provides the stablecoin infrastructure underpinning the service. The London-based company specialises in digital asset payment solutions for financial institutions.

Highnote operates a unified platform for embedded finance and card issuance, serving fintechs and enterprises that integrate payment capabilities into their products. 

The San Francisco-based company launched in 2020 and has processed billions of card transactions across multiple sectors.

Addressing high-velocity payment demands

The partnership targets high-velocity disbursement applications where timing proves critical. These include supplier payouts in accounts payable automation, instant reimbursements for expense management, real-time settlements in marketplace transactions and funding flows for fleet and credit programmes.

Highnote is rolling out the capability with select subscribers who gain access to the service ahead of broader availability. The company has not disclosed the number of initial participants or the timeline for general release.

The stablecoin funding addresses operational challenges for global financial technology companies that previously relied on traditional banking rails. 

Cross-border transactions through conventional banking systems can take several days to settle, particularly when involving multiple currencies and time zones.

Stablecoins offer faster settlement times by operating on blockchain networks that function continuously. 

The digital assets maintain stable value by pegging to traditional currencies, typically the US dollar, making them suitable for business applications requiring predictable value.

Market expansion plans

John Macilwaine, CEO at Highnote, says the partnership represents a foundational step towards broader digital asset integration across the company's platform. 

The executive indicates plans to extend stablecoin capabilities from inbound funding through to acquiring and outbound disbursements via card issuance.

“Our subscribers are building real-time financial products for a global user base, and until now, they have had to operate within the limits of US banking hours,” John says. 

“This new capability eliminates that barrier, giving them true around the clock control over how and when to move money.”

The announcement comes as stablecoin adoption accelerates in commercial applications. 

Circle's USDC and Tether's USDT represent the two largest stablecoins by market capitalisation, with combined value exceeding US$150bn. 

Payment companies, including Stripe and PayPal, have integrated stablecoin capabilities into their platforms.

BVNK has expanded its stablecoin infrastructure services across multiple jurisdictions, obtaining regulatory approvals in the UK and EU. 

The company serves financial institutions, payment processors and fintech companies requiring stablecoin payment capabilities.

Keith Vander Leest, US General Manager at BVNK, says the partnership demonstrates how stablecoins can address liquidity constraints in traditional payment systems. 

The executive notes that conventional banking rails can restrict access to funds during non-business hours, creating operational challenges for companies operating globally.

“This partnership is a prime example of how stablecoins can free up liquidity locked in complex payment flows that rely on traditional bank payment rails,” Keith says. 

“Our stablecoin-native infrastructure enables instant global value transfer, powering a new generation of financial services that innovators like Highnote are building today.”

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