Cardtonic has officially introduced its Platinum Virtual Card, a tokenized payment solution that allows users to make contactless payments at physical merchant terminals worldwide. This launch marks a significant transition for the African fintech platform, moving its virtual card services beyond online checkouts to real-world utility through NFC technology.
The new Platinum Card is fully integrated with major mobile wallets, including Apple Pay and Google Pay. This allows Nigerian and Ghanaian users to fund their digital cards in local currency and pay at any physical point of sale terminal globally by simply tapping their smartphones. This development effectively bridges the gap between digital-only money and everyday physical spending, which has traditionally been a hurdle for African consumers traveling abroad or seeking more flexible payment options.
In terms of security, the card utilizes tokenization and biometric authentication to protect user data. By replacing actual card details with secure digital tokens, the system ensures that sensitive information is never exposed during a transaction. Users can choose between a Visa or Mastercard Platinum variant for a creation fee of $5, with the platform offering competitive conversion rates for those funding their USD wallets from Naira or Cedi balances.
Beyond physical stores, the Platinum Card maintains robust support for international digital services like Netflix, ChatGPT Plus, and Google Ads. This innovation represents a vital tool for financial mobility. As global commerce becomes increasingly cashless, Cardtonic’s move to provide a “tap-to-pay” experience ensures that African users can navigate international markets with the same convenience as domestic shoppers in the U.S. or Europe.
