Connor Fitzgerald, the executive who directed global stablecoin partnerships at Bridge after its acquisition by Stripe, has stepped down. His departure occurs as the payments platform continues scaling its stablecoin card and settlement services across more than 100 markets worldwide.

Fitzgerald joined Bridge one month after Stripe completed its roughly $1.1 billion acquisition of the blockchain-focused cross-border payments company. At that time, no stablecoin card program backed by a true sponsor bank existed. He focused on establishing relationships with sponsor banks and payment networks, creating the operational and compliance infrastructure needed for international rollout.

Under his leadership, Bridge launched the first stablecoin settlement solution for United States users. Annualized transaction volumes rose from zero to tens of millions of dollars. The company expanded its network of banking and processing partners to support stablecoin-powered cards for businesses and consumers.

European Regulatory Clearance Supports Broader Reach

Bridge recently obtained Markets in Crypto-Assets compliance and an Electronic Money Institution license in Luxembourg. These approvals authorize operations across all 27 European Union member states under a single framework. The licenses enable issuance of euro-backed stablecoins and creation of virtual IBAN accounts.

Clients can now integrate cross-border euro payments more efficiently and move capital between corporate entities using stablecoins rather than traditional correspondent banking channels. The regulatory progress complements the platform’s existing global presence, which already covers more than 100 territories.

Visa Partnership and Ongoing Expansion

Stripe has maintained momentum in stablecoin initiatives despite the leadership change. Visa expanded its collaboration with Bridge earlier this year, targeting the launch of stablecoin-backed card programs in more than 100 countries by the end of 2026. The partnership aims to increase use of digital asset settlement tools for both consumer and corporate payments.

USDC has been integrated into international card payment flows for Stripe and its partners. The company continues to develop blockchain-based payment rails alongside its conventional infrastructure.

Fitzgerald stated that his next role will remain in blockchain-powered finance. After working with numerous stablecoin firms, he concluded that the next generation of global banking will be built natively onchain. He has not disclosed further details about his future plans.

Stripe has also been linked to broader strategic discussions. Reports indicate the company joined private equity firm Advent International in a proposal to acquire PayPal. The offer, valued at approximately $53 billion, was viewed by PayPal’s board as undervaluing the company. Talks have continued amid considerations of financing, regulatory, and execution factors. A completed transaction would combine PayPal’s digital payment products, including its stablecoin offerings, with Stripe’s Bridge infrastructure.

Stripe and Bridge continue advancing regulated stablecoin services and partnerships as the platform operates across more than 100 markets.