Foundation of Interbank Card Association (ICA)
Mastercard was originally founded as the Interbank Card Association (ICA) by a group of California banks to compete with BankAmericard, which later became Visa.
1966
1969
First Master Charge Card Issued
The ICA issued the first Master Charge card, which would eventually become known as Mastercard, marking the beginning of its journey in the payments industry.
1979
Rebranding to Mastercard
The Interbank Card Association rebranded its Master Charge card to Mastercard, a name that would become synonymous with global payments.
1983
Introduction of Hologram Security Feature
Mastercard introduced the hologram security feature on its cards, enhancing security and reducing fraud for its users.
1985
Global Acceptance Milestone
Mastercard achieved a significant milestone by becoming accepted at over one million merchant locations worldwide.
1997
Launch of Maestro Debit Card
Mastercard launched Maestro, its global debit card service, providing customers with direct access to their bank accounts for purchases and ATM withdrawals.
2002
Acquisition of Europay International
Mastercard acquired Europay International, a leading European payment systems company, expanding its presence and influence in the European market.
2006
Mastercard IPO
Mastercard went public with an initial public offering (IPO), listing its shares on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "MA."
2010
Introduction of Mastercard PayPass
Mastercard introduced PayPass, its contactless payment technology, allowing consumers to make quick and secure transactions by tapping their cards on a reader.
2014
Launch of Masterpass Digital Wallet
Mastercard launched Masterpass, a digital wallet service designed to simplify online and in-app purchases for consumers.
2016
Acquisition of VocaLink
Mastercard acquired VocaLink, a UK-based payment systems company, enhancing its capabilities in real-time bank account-based payments.
2017
Introduction of Mastercard Identity Check (Selfie Pay)
Mastercard introduced Identity Check, also known as "Selfie Pay," a biometric authentication method allowing users to verify online payments using facial recognition.
2019
Launch of Mastercard Track
Mastercard launched Mastercard Track, a global trade platform designed to streamline and automate the procure-to-pay process for businesses.
2020
Expansion of Digital Payment Solutions
Mastercard expanded its digital payment solutions, including the rollout of Click to Pay, a universal online checkout service, to enhance the online shopping experience.
2022
Introduction of Carbon Calculator
Mastercard introduced the Carbon Calculator, a tool that helps consumers track the carbon footprint of their purchases, promoting sustainable spending habits.
2023
Advancement in Quantum Computing
Mastercard announced significant advancements in quantum computing research to enhance transaction security and efficiency, positioning itself at the forefront of technological innovation in the payments industry.
