MasterCard Seeks ‘Level Playing Field’ for Bitcoin Regulation

MasterCard has spoken out against bitcoin’s perceived risks and called for regulators to create a “level playing field” for payments systems.
The statements were made as part of an ongoing Australian inquiry into digital currencies, headed by the Senate Standing Committee on Economics.
In a document, the credit card company argues that all financial services should be held to the same standard, stating that it is imperative all consumers and merchants are able to conduct business and commerce in a way that is safe and simple for all.
The statement says:
“It is our view that all participants in the payments system that provide similar services to consumers should be regulated in the same way to achieve a level playing field for all. Moreover, any regulations should be technology neutral to ensure that they can and do apply to all new providers of payment services to consumers, especially with advancements in technology.”

This post was published at Coin Desk on December 2, 2014.