Mastercard joins Visa and Ant on identity framework for AI

Mastercard has partnered with Ant International and Visa to develop an interoperability framework called Know-Your-Agent (KYA). The system is designed to simplify agent onboarding and identification across card networks, digital wallets, and agent platforms.

The framework uses shared principles while letting each network keep its own verification and decision processes. The initiative aims to capture transaction flows from emerging AI agents and automated payment workflows, while supporting the expansion of value-added services such as identity verification, fraud decisioning, and cyber risk management.

The integration also brings operational challenges. Mastercard faces required technology investments and integration spending amid higher operating expenses and client incentive pressures. Both Mastercard and Visa are managing a deceleration from historical double-digit revenue growth rates, higher leverage, and moderated cash flows as they deploy capital across new agent ecosystems.