MetaMask Launches Native Stablecoin with Stripe-Owned Bridge

August 22, 2025 • FinTech News

MetaMask has introduced its first native stablecoin, MetaMask USD ($mUSD). The self-custodial crypto wallet partnered with Stripe-owned Bridge to issue this digital asset. This development represents a significant expansion beyond MetaMask’s traditional wallet functionality toward becoming a comprehensive financial platform.

Seamless Dollar-Backed Digital Asset

The new $mUSD stablecoin provides users with a dollar-backed digital currency experience. It enables seamless storing, spending, and transacting across web3 environments. The stablecoin will initially launch on both Ethereum and Linea networks. Linea represents Consensys’ own EVM-equivalent layer-2 blockchain solution. This multi-chain approach ensures broad accessibility from the initial launch phase.

Integrated Wallet Experience

MetaMask will natively integrate $mUSD directly into its wallet interface. This integration allows users to instantly onboard funds without external platforms. It significantly reduces friction in web3 adoption while providing stable digital dollar access. Additionally, MetaMask cardholders can spend $mUSD at millions of global merchants. This functionality bridges decentralized finance with mainstream payment systems effectively.

Strategic Partnership Structure

MetaMask clarified that Bridge, not MetaMask itself, will issue the stablecoin. Stripe acquired Bridge earlier this year for over $1 billion. This partnership provides necessary infrastructure and regulatory compliance frameworks. Meanwhile, MetaMask can focus exclusively on user experience and product integration aspects. The collaboration leverages Bridge’s technical expertise with MetaMask’s extensive user base.

Eliminating Web3 Adoption Barriers

Gal Eldar, MetaMask’s product lead, described the launch as a critical step toward bringing global users onchain. He emphasized that $mUSD addresses major web3 adoption barriers by reducing costs and friction for everyday users. Eldar noted that users can now bring money onchain, deploy it productively, spend it widely, and use it like conventional money should function.

Strategic Implications and Future Vision

This launch signals MetaMask’s ambitious positioning as both a dApp gateway and core digital finance infrastructure provider. By combining stablecoin functionality with its substantial wallet adoption, MetaMask aims to establish stable, borderless transactions as a decentralized economy standard. The move represents Consensys’ broader strategy to create integrated financial solutions that serve both crypto-native users and mainstream adopters.

Market Context and Competitive Landscape

The stablecoin market continues expanding rapidly as major platforms seek to capture value in digital payments. MetaMask’s entry with a native solution leverages its existing user base of millions worldwide. This approach differs from competitors by focusing on seamless integration within the wallet experience rather than operating as a separate product. The partnership with Bridge provides regulatory compliance advantages through Stripe’s established financial infrastructure.