Watch CBS News

Visa, Mastercard Reconsider Partnership With Facebook Cryptocurrency Network 'Libra'

MENLO PARK (AP) -- A new report says partners in Facebook's cryptocurrency-based payments network, Libra, are wavering in their support amid a backlash from U.S. and European officials.

The Wall Street Journal reported Tuesday that Visa Inc., Mastercard Inc. and others that signed on to help build Libra are reconsidering their involvement. The newspaper cited people familiar with the matter who were granted anonymity.

Facebook, Visa and Mastercard did not immediately respond to messages seeking comment.

Facebook has faced regulatory pushback over Libra since unveiling it in June. The idea is to open online purchasing to millions of people who do not have access to bank accounts and reduce the cost of sending money across borders. But Facebook already faces scrutiny over its poor record on privacy and its dominance in social media.

© Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.