The move enables the bank to issue Mastercard-branded payment products for global investors, digital businesses and internationally minded consumers. The bank has also joined the Mastercard Crypto Partner Program to develop regulated digital asset payment solutions.

Manama, Bahrain; [November 1, 2026] Singapore Gulf Bank (SGB), a fully licensed digital bank regulated by the Central Bank of Bahrain, has become a Mastercard principal member. The move enables the bank to directly issue Mastercard-branded payment products and connect to the technology company’s global payments network.

Through its principal membership, SGB will develop tailored payment products for global investors, digital businesses and internationally minded consumers. The collaboration will combine Mastercard’s global reach and payment capabilities with the bank’s expertise in cross-border banking and digital finance.

SGB has also joined the Mastercard Crypto Partner Program to collaborate on regulated digital asset payment solutions that connect fiat and digital currencies within a regulated banking environment.

“At Mastercard, we are committed to supporting forward-looking financial institutions in shaping the future of commerce. We are thrilled to welcome SGB as a Mastercard principal member and a key participant in our Crypto Partner Program. This collaboration will drive payments innovation and enhance cross-border flows, empowering consumers and businesses with greater global connectivity,” said Saud Swar, country manager, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan and other Levant, Mastercard.

“Our clients operate across markets and currencies, and across both traditional and digital finance. Becoming a Mastercard principal member is an important step for us at SGB, giving us the ability to design payment products around how our clients manage and move money globally while offering them the flexibility and security they need,” said Frederic Boissieras, General Manager, SGB.

This milestone reinforces Bahrain’s position as a regional hub for fintech and digital transformation while encouraging collaboration between global payment networks and emerging financial institutions.

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About Mastercard

Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we’re building a resilient economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help people, businesses and governments realize their greatest potential.

www.mastercard.com  

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About SGB

Singapore Gulf Bank (SGB) is the bank for all of finance, serving businesses and individuals worldwide. Backed by Whampoa Group, a Singapore-based investment holding company, and Mumtalakat, Bahrain’s sovereign wealth fund, SGB is fully licensed and regulated by the Central Bank of Bahrain.

For more information, visit www.sgb.com. Stay connected with us on LinkedIn, X and Instagram.

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