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Explore with us | Research & DEVELOPMENT

Research and development

Mastercard’s R&D team conducts research into emerging behaviours, trends and technologies that have the potential to unlock value for our customers. 

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How we drive innovation

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Researching emerging technologies

We learn by doing, using applied research to build concepts and prototypes and gain a deep understanding of emerging technologies and their applications.

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Developing new products 

We leverage emerging technologies, research and our technical expertise to explore new product ideas with our customers at the centre.

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Culture & collaboration

We foster a culture of innovation with customers and employees by using cutting-edge technology to create concepts for the future and through meetups and hackathons.

Current focus areas

AI, Generative AI & Machine Learning

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Quantum Computing 

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Next Gen Devices

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Privacy Enhancing Technology 

Cybersecurity

Augmented Analytics

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R&D stories

Migration to post-quantum cryptography

Quantum computing poses a threat to the cryptography that keeps financial systems safe. Here's how to start preparing for the quantum future. 

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Mastercard launches GenAI
assistant capabilities to enhance customer value

This issue of Signals explores how fintechs are fuelling the next generation of small and medium business growth.

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How we drive innovation

What is Mastercard R&D and how does it support customers and developers?

Mastercard R&D is focused on exploring emerging technologies and accelerating innovation. It supports customers and developers by providing expertise, platforms, and programs to co-create solutions, run experiments, and build prototypes that de-risk new product development.

How does Mastercard R&D de-risk new product development?

R&D uses structured frameworks to validate technical assumptions early, run proof-of-concept builds, and test market fit. This approach reduces uncertainty and ensures new products meet security, compliance, and scalability standards before full investment.

What emerging technologies does Mastercard R&D focus on?

Mastercard R&D explores technologies such as Generative AI, Agentic AI, Quantum Computing, Post-Quantum Cryptography, Privacy Enhancing Technologies, Cloud, Augmented Analytics, Next Gen Devices, Cybersecurity, and Confidential Computing to unlock new opportunities for innovation.

How does Mastercard R&D support rapid experimentation and proof-of-concept development?

Through the R&D Accelerator, teams can quickly ideate, design, and build functional demos to test high-risk technical assumptions. This rapid experimentation model accelerates learning and reduces time-to-market for innovative solutions.

How does R&D drive innovation?

R&D drives innovation by combining technical expertise with customer insights, leveraging global hubs and cutting-edge platforms. It identifies emerging trends, builds prototypes, and partners with product teams to transform ideas into scalable solutions.