WorldFirst, the cross-border payment platform under Ant International, has launched the World Card, a virtual Mastercard solution designed to simplify global payments for small and medium-sized enterprises. The product enables businesses to pay in over 150 currencies across more than 210 countries and regions, with no foreign exchange fees when paying in 15 major currencies directly from a WorldFirst account.
The World Card builds on WorldFirst’s existing treasury and payment capabilities and integrates multiple SME-focused features. These include centralized multi-card management, real-time fraud prevention tools, and a cashback rewards program on eligible transactions. Businesses will also be able to manage expenses by team or project using customizable virtual cards.
“The international reach they need to scale without borders”
Jane Prokop, executive vice president and global head of small and medium enterprises at Mastercard, commented, “With the launch of the World Card, WorldFirst and Mastercard are giving ambitious businesses a smarter way to manage spending. Today’s small businesses often have global ambitions, but outdated payment processes can hold them back. The new solution offers the ease, security, and international reach they need to scale without borders. Together, we’re helping them simplify operations, stay on top of spending, and expand into new markets.”
World Card is scheduled to roll out across Asia, Europe, Oceania, and Africa this year, with support for Apple Pay and Google Pay expected in the coming months. A physical version of the card will also be released in 2025, offering the same benefits as the digital version while allowing in-person transactions through chip-enabled point-of-sale terminals.
Clara Shi, CEO of WorldFirst and vice president of Ant International, commented, “WorldFirst enables business growth by delivering solutions featuring global coverage, secure transactions and operational efficiency—essential foundations for SMEs’ success in today’s digital economy. We look forward to deepening our collaboration with Mastercard and industry leaders to pioneer innovative solutions like World Card, empowering SMEs and drive inclusive growth.”
WorldFirst said the product targets the needs of businesses involved in e-commerce, digital marketing, logistics, and SaaS subscriptions. World Card has been certified under PCI DSS and includes security tools such as 3DS/AVS verification, real-time assistance, and adjustable spending limits.
The launch follows a joint Deloitte and WorldFirst report that identified several challenges facing SMEs in global trade, including high entry barriers, competitive pressure, and rising operational costs. Meanwhile, data from Research and Markets projects the e-commerce payment market to reach $12.9 trillion by 2032, growing at a compound annual rate of 13.65 percent.
WorldFirst is part of Ant International, which delivers financial technology infrastructure to businesses operating in cross-border commerce. The company supports over one million customers with services in more than 100 currencies across 200 countries and regions.
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