Mastercard's effort to acquire the blockchain infrastructure firm Zerohash did not proceed after Zerohash chose to remain independent. Instead of completing a takeover, Mastercard is now evaluating the option of making a strategic investment in the company, according to sources. Reports from last year indicated that Mastercard had been in late-stage talks about an acquisition that was valued as high as $2 billion.
Mastercard's Initial Acquisition Plans
Earlier coverage described Mastercard as having pursued a purchase of Zerohash and entering late-stage negotiations over the deal, which sources said could have been worth up to $2 billion. The move was reported as part of broader consolidation interest in the sector, and it was discussed alongside other recent M&A deals in crypto. Those reports framed the acquisition talks as a significant strategic step for a major payments processor.
Zerohash's Decision to Remain Independent
Zerohash opted to keep its independence, a choice that stalled Mastercard's purchase plans. That decision is the direct reason the acquisition did not move forward, and it left the relationship between the two firms open to alternative arrangements. The public reporting is clear that the buyout did not complete because Zerohash declined the takeover.
Mastercard's Strategic Investment Consideration
Following the halt of acquisition talks, Mastercard is evaluating whether to make a strategic investment in Zerohash, according to sources. This possible investment would be considered instead of an outright purchase, reflecting a different form of commercial engagement between a payments company and a blockchain infrastructure firm. For context on investment activity in the sector, see recent coverage of blockchain investments that have been reported in the market.
Why it matters
For miners and operators, the immediate practical outcome is that Zerohash remains an independent provider rather than becoming a unit of Mastercard. That means any current terms, services or access tied to Zerohash are subject to the firm's own decisions for now, not an acquirer’s. If Mastercard proceeds with a strategic investment, the relationship could change, but the company has not completed such a deal.
What to do?
- Monitor official announcements from Zerohash and Mastercard: keep an eye on provider statements and account notices so you can react to any contractual or service changes promptly.
- Review your agreements and backups: check service terms and ensure critical keys, wallet backups and configuration files are stored securely and separately from any single provider.
- Diversify providers and prepare contingency plans: consider spreading load across multiple pools or services to reduce dependence on one infrastructure firm.
- Stay informed via industry coverage: follow reliable updates on investments and M&A in the sector so you can assess longer-term operational impacts.
