Visa and Mastercard recently saw a combined $60 billion drop in market value after reports revealed that major global merchants are seeking alternatives to traditional credit card networks. Rising processing fees and outdated systems have pushed retailers to explore new payment methods.
Merchants have grown frustrated with 2–3% transaction fees, delays, and chargebacks, while consumers increasingly favor faster, cheaper options like cryptocurrencies and stablecoins. Although Visa and Mastercard still dominate payments, their position is weakening as innovative crypto projects introduce more efficient solutions.
Here are three altcoins gaining attention as potential disruptors in the payments space:
- Best Wallet Token ($BEST): Backing the Best Wallet ecosystem, $BEST offers lower transaction fees, early access to new projects, and higher staking rewards. With over $13 million raised in presales and enhanced security through Fireblocks’ MPC-CMP technology, the token supports a seamless, scam-resistant environment for presale participation. Current price is around $0.025, with projections to reach $0.072 by 2025.
- SUBBD Token ($SUBBD): This token powers an AI-driven, decentralized creator platform that eliminates intermediaries, allowing influencers to monetize directly through low-fee crypto and fiat payments. Featuring personal AI assistants and AI-enhanced content creation, $SUBBD supports real-time fan interactions and boasts over 250 million followers in its ecosystem. It is currently priced near $0.055 and has raised $662,000.
- Smog Token ($SMOG): A meme coin with utility, $SMOG runs on Solana and Ethereum networks and incorporates gamification elements such as staking rewards, airdrops, and community quests. With a current price around $0.009 and 42% APY staking rewards, it engages over 110,000 holders and incentivizes participation through gaming and social activities.
The declining dominance of Visa and Mastercard highlights shifts in financial technology, where crypto projects offer faster, cheaper, and more rewarding payment solutions. Investors are advised to conduct independent research before considering these tokens.
Note: This article is informational and does not constitute financial advice.