Mastercard is actively recruiting a Director of Crypto Flows to spearhead initiatives in stablecoin-linked card issuance and DeFi payment flows, as well as to update network rules for Web3 transactions. This move, highlighted by crypto journalist Frank Chaparro, indicates Mastercard's strategic shift beyond initial pilot projects in the crypto space. This hiring comes on the heels of a report by Citrini Research, which warns of a potential future where AI agents bypass traditional payment networks like Mastercard, opting for stablecoin transactions that eliminate interchange fees. The report suggests that Mastercard's Q1 2027 earnings could mark a pivotal moment in this shift. Despite the challenges, Mastercard is laying the groundwork by integrating stablecoins into its network and expanding partnerships, such as with Circle's USDC. However, it faces competition from Visa, which has made significant strides in crypto-native settlements. The question remains whether Mastercard's efforts will bridge the gap or merely observe it widen.