Kazakhstan launches crypto card to link digital assets with mainstream banking
New project enables real-time conversion of cryptocurrencies to fiat, marking key step in Kazakhstan’s digital finance roadmap
ASTANA, Kazakhstan (MNTV) — The National Bank of Kazakhstan has launched a new crypto card that allows users to spend digital assets in real time, a major step in the country’s broader strategy to integrate cryptocurrencies into its formal banking infrastructure.
The initiative was officially introduced during a high-level meeting in Almaty on June 3, attended by representatives from banks, fintech firms, and licensed crypto exchanges. It follows a directive from President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to accelerate the development of Kazakhstan’s digital asset ecosystem.
According to a report by The Astana Times, the crypto card connects to user wallets maintained by licensed digital asset service providers operating within the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC).
Transactions are processed by instantly converting the user’s crypto holdings into fiat currency at the time of purchase, with the equivalent amount credited to the card in real time.
“This setup allows users to make everyday purchases using their crypto assets, while the backend system ensures that payments are made in national currency, preserving financial stability and compliance,” said the central bank in its official press release.
The crypto card is just one element of a more ambitious roadmap. Looking ahead to 2025, the National Bank plans to roll out additional pilot projects aimed at expanding the country’s digital finance infrastructure.
These include the issuance of stablecoins backed by the national currency, tokenization of financial and real estate assets, and the development of custody solutions for digital instruments.
Legislative changes are also underway to allow for broader circulation of unbacked cryptocurrencies and to regulate asset-backed digital financial products.
Binur Zhalenov, Chief Digital Officer at the National Bank, explained the strategic intent behind the reforms. “With all these new regulations, we’re building a bridge between traditional financial systems and decentralized finance,” he said. “The digital tenge plays a central role in maintaining stability while enabling innovation.”
Kazakhstan has emerged as one of Central Asia’s leaders in crypto innovation, balancing regulatory oversight with support for blockchain-based technologies. The launch of the crypto card signals growing momentum toward making digital assets a normalized part of everyday financial transactions.
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