Mastercard

In short: Mastercard is a worldwide payment network and, alongside Visa, one of the largest card providers.

In more detail: The company emerged in 1966 from mergers of banks (at first “Master Charge”). As with Visa, banks issue the cards.

In Depth

Brands

Mastercard (credit/debit) and formerly Maestro for debit cards.

Technology and security

Chip and PIN, contactless via NFC, online payments with 3-D Secure. See Stripe, payment terminal.

See also: Visa, Maestro, NFC, Stripe