MASTERCARD INC, 10-K filed on 2/11/2026
Annual Report
v3.25.4
Cover Page - USD ($)
$ in Billions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Feb. 06, 2026
Jun. 30, 2025
Document Type 10-K    
Document Transition Report false    
Document Period End Date Dec. 31, 2025    
Document Annual Report true    
Entity File Number 001-32877    
Entity Registrant Name Mastercard Incorporated    
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code DE    
Entity Tax Identification Number 13-4172551    
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code 10577    
Entity Address, State or Province NY    
Entity Address, City or Town Purchase,    
Entity Address, Address Line One 2000 Purchase Street    
City Area Code 914    
Local Phone Number 249-2000    
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Yes    
Entity Voluntary Filers No    
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes    
Entity Interactive Data Current Yes    
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer    
Entity Small Business false    
Entity Emerging Growth Company false    
ICFR Auditor Attestation Flag true    
Document Financial Statement Error Correction [Flag] false    
Entity Shell Company false    
Entity Public Float     $ 505.0
Entity Central Index Key 0001141391    
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31    
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2025    
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY    
Amendment Flag false    
Class A Common Stock      
Title of 12(b) Security Class A Common Stock, par value $0.0001 per share    
Trading Symbol MA    
Security Exchange Name NYSE    
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   885,216,386  
Senior Notes due December 2027      
Title of 12(b) Security 2.1% Notes due 2027    
Trading Symbol MA27    
Security Exchange Name NYSE    
One Point Zero Percent Notes Due 2029      
Title of 12(b) Security 1.0% Notes due 2029    
Trading Symbol MA29A    
Security Exchange Name NYSE    
Senior Notes due December 2030      
Title of 12(b) Security 2.5% Notes due 2030    
Trading Symbol MA30    
Security Exchange Name NYSE    
Class B Common Stock      
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   6,595,925  
v3.25.4
Audit Information
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Audit Information [Abstract]  
Auditor Firm ID 238
Auditor Name PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Auditor Location New York, New York
v3.25.4
Consolidated Statements of Operations - USD ($)
shares in Millions, $ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Income Statement [Abstract]      
Net revenue $ 32,791 $ 28,167 $ 25,098
Operating Expenses:      
General and administrative 11,318 10,193 8,927
Advertising and marketing 929 815 825
Depreciation and amortization 1,143 897 799
Provision for litigation 504 680 539
Total operating expenses 13,894 12,585 11,090
Operating income 18,897 15,582 14,008
Other Income (Expense):      
Investment income 325 327 274
Gains (losses) on equity investments, net (88) (29) (61)
Interest expense (722) (646) (575)
Other income (expense), net 166 20 (7)
Total other income (expense) (319) (328) (369)
Income before income taxes 18,578 15,254 13,639
Income tax expense 3,610 2,380 2,444
Net Income $ 14,968 $ 12,874 $ 11,195
Basic Earnings per Share (in dollars per share) $ 16.54 $ 13.91 $ 11.86
Basic weighted-average shares outstanding (in shares) 905 925 944
Diluted Earnings per Share (in dollars per share) $ 16.52 $ 13.89 $ 11.83
Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding (in shares) 906 927 946
v3.25.4
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]      
Net Income $ 14,968 $ 12,874 $ 11,195
Other comprehensive income (loss):      
Foreign currency translation adjustments 596 (456) 328
Income tax effect (72) 17 (33)
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of income tax effect 524 (439) 295
Translation adjustments on net investment hedges (215) 147 (165)
Income tax effect 46 (33) 37
Translation adjustments on net investment hedges, net of income tax effect (169) 114 (128)
Cash flow hedges (301) 161 (41)
Income tax effect 20 (12) 10
Reclassification adjustments for cash flow hedges 395 (178) 35
Income tax effect (11) 0 (8)
Cash flow hedges, net of income tax effect 103 (29) (4)
Defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans (8) 23 (18)
Income tax effect 2 (4) 5
Reclassification adjustments for defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans 0 0 (1)
Income tax effect 0 0 0
Defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans, net of income tax effect (6) 19 (14)
Investment securities available-for-sale 0 1 6
Income tax effect 0 0 (1)
Investment securities available-for-sale, net of income tax effect 0 1 5
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income tax effect 452 (334) 154
Comprehensive Income $ 15,420 $ 12,540 $ 11,349
v3.25.4
Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Current assets:    
Cash and cash equivalents $ 10,566 $ 8,442
Restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents 561 492
Restricted security deposits held for customers 2,121 1,874
Investments 332 330
Accounts receivable 4,609 3,773
Settlement assets 1,626 1,821
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 3,743 2,992
Total current assets 23,558 19,724
Property, equipment and right-of-use assets, net 2,303 2,138
Deferred income taxes 1,567 1,614
Goodwill 9,560 9,193
Other intangible assets, net 5,554 5,453
Other assets 11,615 9,959
Total Assets 54,157 48,081
Current liabilities:    
Accounts payable 999 929
Settlement obligations 2,409 2,316
Restricted security deposits held for customers 2,121 1,874
Accrued litigation 800 930
Accrued expenses 13,272 10,393
Short-term debt 749 750
Other current liabilities 2,412 2,028
Total current liabilities 22,762 19,220
Long-term debt 18,251 17,476
Deferred income taxes 307 317
Other liabilities 5,091 4,553
Total Liabilities 46,411 41,566
Commitments and Contingencies
Stockholders’ Equity    
Additional paid-in-capital 6,907 6,442
Class A treasury stock, at cost, 518 and 497 shares, respectively (83,224) (71,431)
Retained earnings 85,035 72,907
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (981) (1,433)
Mastercard Incorporated Stockholders' Equity 7,737 6,485
Non-controlling interests 9 30
Total Equity 7,746 6,515
Total Liabilities and Equity 54,157 48,081
Class A Common Stock    
Stockholders’ Equity    
Common stock value 0 0
Class B Common Stock    
Stockholders’ Equity    
Common stock value $ 0 $ 0
v3.25.4
Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - $ / shares
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Treasury stock (in shares) 518,000,000 497,000,000
Class A Common Stock    
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) $ 0.0001 $ 0.0001
Common stock, authorized shares (in shares) 3,000,000,000 3,000,000,000
Common stock, issued (in shares) 1,406,000,000 1,404,000,000
Common stock, outstanding (in shares) 887,000,000 907,000,000
Class B Common Stock    
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) $ 0.0001 $ 0.0001
Common stock, authorized shares (in shares) 1,200,000,000 1,200,000,000
Common stock, issued (in shares) 7,000,000 7,000,000
Common stock, outstanding (in shares) 7,000,000 7,000,000
v3.25.4
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Total
Mastercard Incorporated Stockholders' Equity
Additional Paid-In Capital
Class A Treasury Stock
Retained Earnings
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Non- Controlling Interests
Class A Common Stock
  Common Stock
Class B Common Stock
  Common Stock
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2022 $ 6,356 $ 6,298 $ 5,298 $ (51,354) $ 53,607 $ (1,253) $ 58 $ 0 $ 0
Net Income 11,195 11,195     11,195        
Activity related to non-controlling interests (12)           (12)    
Redeemable non-controlling interest adjustments (7) (7)     (7)        
Other comprehensive income (loss) 154 154       154      
Dividends (2,231) (2,231)     (2,231)        
Purchases of treasury stock (9,088) (9,088)   (9,088)          
Share-based payments 608 608 595 13          
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2023 6,975 6,929 5,893 (60,429) 62,564 (1,099) 46 0 0
Net Income 12,874 12,874     12,874        
Activity related to non-controlling interests (16)           (16)    
Redeemable non-controlling interest adjustments (5) (5)     (5)        
Other comprehensive income (loss) (334) (334)       (334)      
Dividends (2,526) (2,526)     (2,526)        
Purchases of treasury stock (11,025) (11,025)   (11,025)          
Share-based payments 572 572 549 23          
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2024 6,515 6,485 6,442 (71,431) 72,907 (1,433) 30 0 0
Net Income 14,968 14,968     14,968        
Activity related to non-controlling interests (21)           (21)    
Other comprehensive income (loss) 452 452       452      
Dividends (2,840) (2,840)     (2,840)        
Purchases of treasury stock (11,837) (11,837)   (11,837)          
Share-based payments 509 509 465 44          
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2025 $ 7,746 $ 7,737 $ 6,907 $ (83,224) $ 85,035 $ (981) $ 9 $ 0 $ 0
v3.25.4
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Operating Activities      
Net Income $ 14,968 $ 12,874 $ 11,195
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:      
Amortization of customer incentives 2,098 1,830 1,622
Depreciation and amortization 1,143 897 799
(Gains) losses on equity investments, net 88 29 61
Share-based compensation 597 526 460
Deferred income taxes 57 (527) (236)
Other 139 191 22
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:      
Accounts receivable (642) 186 (546)
Income taxes receivable (91) (165) (171)
Settlement assets 202 (593) 40
Prepaid expenses (3,388) (3,225) (2,438)
Accrued litigation and legal settlements (142) 205 (375)
Restricted security deposits held for customers 247 29 277
Accounts payable 45 75 (99)
Settlement obligations 89 922 282
Accrued expenses 1,836 1,587 571
Long-term taxes payable (185) (163) (129)
Net change in other assets and liabilities 587 102 645
Net cash provided by operating activities 17,648 14,780 11,980
Investing Activities      
Purchases of investment securities available-for-sale (501) (508) (300)
Purchases of investments held-to-maturity (28) (108) (347)
Proceeds from sales of investment securities available-for-sale 254 199 87
Proceeds from maturities of investment securities available-for-sale 232 262 191
Proceeds from maturities of investments held-to-maturity 52 378 157
Purchases of property and equipment (489) (474) (371)
Capitalized software (726) (720) (717)
Purchases of equity investments (339) (42) (89)
Proceeds from sales of equity investments 181 125 44
Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired 0 (2,511) 0
Other investing activities 2 (3) (6)
Net cash used in investing activities (1,362) (3,402) (1,351)
Financing Activities      
Purchases of treasury stock (11,727) (10,954) (9,032)
Dividends paid (2,756) (2,448) (2,158)
Proceeds from debt, net 1,242 3,960 1,554
Payment of debt (750) (1,336) 0
Tax withholdings related to share-based payments (291) (178) (89)
Cash proceeds from employee stock plans 203 224 237
Other financing activities (100) (104) 0
Net cash used in financing activities (14,179) (10,836) (9,488)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents 333 (199) 128
Net increase in cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents 2,440 343 1,269
Cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents - beginning of period 10,808 10,465 9,196
Cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents - end of period $ 13,248 $ 10,808 $ 10,465
v3.25.4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Organization
Mastercard Incorporated and its consolidated subsidiaries, including Mastercard International Incorporated (“Mastercard International” and together with Mastercard Incorporated, “Mastercard” or the “Company”), is a technology company in the global payments industry. Mastercard connects consumers, financial institutions, merchants, governments, digital partners, businesses and other organizations worldwide by enabling electronic payments and making those payment transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. The Company makes payments easier and more efficient by providing a wide range of payment solutions and services using its family of well-known and trusted brands, including its primary brand Mastercard®, as well as its Maestro® and Cirrus® brands. The Company operates a payments network that provides choice and flexibility for consumers, merchants and Mastercard customers. Through its unique and proprietary global payments network, the Company switches (authorizes, clears and settles) payment transactions. The Company has additional payments capabilities that include automated clearing house (“ACH”) transactions (both batch and real-time account-based payments). Using these capabilities, the Company offers consumer and commercial payment products, captures new payment flows and provides services and solutions. The Company’s services and solutions include, among others, security solutions, consumer acquisition and engagement services, business and market insights, digital and authentication, processing and gateway and other solutions, all of which draw on Mastercard’s principled and responsible use of secure data. The Company’s capabilities strengthen, reinforce and complement each other and are fundamentally interdependent. For the global payments network, Mastercard’s franchise model sets the standards and ground-rules that balance value and risk across (and allows for interoperability among) all stakeholders. The Company employs a multi-layered approach to help protect the global payments ecosystem in which it operates.
Mastercard is not a financial institution. The Company does not issue cards, extend credit, determine or receive revenue from interest rates or other fees charged to account holders by issuers, nor does the Company establish the rates charged by acquirers in connection with merchants’ acceptance of the Company’s products. In most cases, account holder relationships belong to, and are managed by, the Company’s financial institution customers.
Significant Accounting Policies
Consolidation and basis of presentation - The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Mastercard and its majority-owned and controlled entities, including any variable interest entities (“VIEs”) for which the Company is the primary beneficiary. Investments in VIEs for which the Company is not considered the primary beneficiary are not consolidated and are accounted for as marketable, equity method or measurement alternative method investments and recorded in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets.  At December 31, 2025 and 2024, there were no significant VIEs that required consolidation and the investments were not considered material to the consolidated financial statements. The Company consolidates acquisitions as of the date the Company has obtained a controlling financial interest. Intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. Certain prior period amounts within the consolidated statements of cash flows have been reclassified to conform to the 2025 presentation. The reclassification had no impact on previously reported net cash flows from operating, investing or financing activities. The Company follows accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”).
Non-controlling interests represent the equity interest not owned by the Company and are recorded for consolidated entities in which the Company owns less than 100% of the interests. Changes in a parent’s ownership interest while the parent retains its controlling interest are accounted for as equity transactions, and upon loss of control, retained ownership interests are remeasured at fair value, with any gain or loss recognized in earnings. For 2025, 2024 and 2023, net income/(losses) attributable to non-controlling interests were not material and, as a result, amounts are included on the consolidated statements of operations within other income (expense).
Use of estimates - The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting periods. Future events and their effects cannot be predicted with certainty; accordingly, accounting estimates require the exercise of judgment. These financial statements were prepared using information reasonably available as of December 31, 2025 and through the date of this Report. The accounting estimates used in the preparation of the Company’s consolidated financial statements may change as new events occur, as more experience is acquired, as additional information is obtained and as the Company’s operating environment changes. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
Revenue recognition - Revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of promised services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the Company expects to be entitled to in exchange for those services.
Revenue from the Company’s payment network is primarily generated by charging fees to customers (issuers, acquirers and other market participants) for providing switching and other network-related services, as well as by charging fees to customers based primarily on the gross dollar volume of activity (GDV, which includes both domestic and cross-border volume) on the cards that carry the Company’s brands. Revenue is recognized in the period in which the related transactions and volume occur. Certain volume-based revenue is determined from information reported by customers.
Revenue from the Company’s value-added services and solutions is generated through either fixed or transaction-based fees. These services and solutions can be integrated and sold with the Company’s payment network services or can be sold on a stand-alone basis. For those contracts that include multiple performance obligations, the Company allocates revenue to each performance obligation based on its relative standalone selling price (“SSP”). The SSP is the price at which the Company would sell a promised product or service separately in similar circumstances to similar customers. Revenue from the Company’s value-added services and solutions is recognized in the period in which the related services and solutions are performed or transactions occur. For services provided to customers where delivery involves the use of a third-party, the Company recognizes revenue on a gross basis if it acts as the principal, controlling the service to the customer, or on a net basis if it acts as the agent, arranging for the service to be provided.
Mastercard has business agreements with certain customers that provide for rebates and incentives within net revenue that could be either fixed or variable. Fixed incentives typically represent payments to a customer directly related to entering into an agreement, which are generally capitalized and amortized over the life of the agreement on a straight-line basis. Variable rebates and incentives are recorded primarily when volume- and transaction-based revenues are recognized over the contractual term and are calculated based upon estimated customer performance, such as volume thresholds, and the terms of the related business agreements. Capitalized customer incentives are included in prepaid expenses and other current assets and other assets on the consolidated balance sheets. Customer incentives to be paid to customers under business agreements are included in accrued expenses and other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.
Certain of the Company’s contracts may include options to receive additional value-added services and solutions. The Company accounts for the option as a distinct performance obligation if the option provides a material right to the customer. Material rights are incremental to the standard offerings, which a customer would not have received without entering into the contract. If a material right exists in a contract, revenue allocated to the option is deferred and recognized as revenue when those future products or services are transferred or when the option expires. The value of the option is based on observable prices in the contract or on a relative SSP basis.
Contract assets include unbilled consideration typically resulting from executed value-added services and solutions performed for customers in connection with Mastercard’s payments network service arrangements. Collection for these services typically occurs over the contractual term. Contract assets are included in prepaid expenses and other current assets and other assets on the consolidated balance sheets.
The Company defers the recognition of revenue when consideration has been received prior to the satisfaction of performance obligations. As these performance obligations are satisfied, revenue is subsequently recognized. Deferred revenue primarily relates to certain value-added services and solutions. Deferred revenue is included in other current liabilities and other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.
Business combinations - The Company accounts for business combinations under the acquisition method of accounting. The Company measures the tangible and intangible identifiable assets acquired, liabilities assumed, any non-controlling interest in the acquiree and contingent consideration at fair value as of the acquisition date. Acquisition-related costs are expensed as incurred and are included in general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of operations. Any excess purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired, including identifiable intangible assets, is recorded as goodwill. Measurement period adjustments, if any, to the preliminary estimated fair value of the intangibles assets as of the acquisition date are recorded in goodwill.
Goodwill and other intangible assets - Indefinite-lived intangible assets consist of goodwill and customer relationships. Goodwill represents the synergies expected to arise after the acquisition date and the assembled workforce. Finite-lived intangible assets consist of capitalized software costs, intangible assets acquired in business combinations (including customer relationships and acquired technology) and other intangible assets. Intangible assets with finite useful lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives, on a straight-line basis, which range from one to twenty years. Capitalized software includes internal and external costs incurred directly related to the design, development and testing phases of each capitalized software project.
The valuation methods for goodwill and other intangible assets acquired in business combinations involve assumptions concerning comparable company multiples, discount rates, growth projections and other assumptions of future business conditions. The
Company uses various valuation techniques to determine the fair value of its intangible assets, primarily discounted cash flows analysis, relief-from-royalty and multi-period excess earnings. As the assumptions employed to measure these assets are based on management’s judgment using internal and external data, these fair value determinations are classified in Level 3 of the Valuation Hierarchy (as defined in Fair value subsection below).
Impairment of assets - Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are not amortized but tested annually for impairment at the reporting unit level in the fourth quarter, or sooner when circumstances indicate an impairment may exist. The impairment evaluation for goodwill utilizes a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more likely than not that goodwill is impaired. The qualitative factors may include, but are not limited to, macroeconomic conditions, industry and market conditions, operating environment, financial performance and other relevant events. If it is determined that it is more likely than not that goodwill is impaired, then the Company is required to perform a quantitative goodwill impairment test. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds the carrying value, goodwill is not impaired. If the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying value, goodwill is impaired and the excess of the reporting unit’s carrying value over the fair value is recognized as an impairment charge.
The impairment test for indefinite-lived intangible assets consists of a qualitative assessment to evaluate relevant events and circumstances that could affect the significant inputs used to determine the fair value of indefinite-lived intangible assets. If the qualitative assessment indicates that it is more likely than not that indefinite-lived intangible assets are impaired, then a quantitative assessment is required.  If the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds the carrying value, the asset is not impaired. If the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying value, the asset is impaired and the excess of the asset’s carrying value over the fair value is recognized as an impairment charge.
Long-lived assets, other than goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets, are tested for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that their carrying amount may not be recoverable. If the carrying value of the asset cannot be recovered from estimated future cash flows, undiscounted and without interest, the fair value of the asset is calculated using the present value of estimated net future cash flows. If the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment is recorded.
Impairment charges, if any, are recorded in general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of operations.
Litigation - The Company is a party to certain legal and regulatory proceedings with respect to a variety of matters. The Company evaluates the likelihood of an unfavorable outcome of all legal or regulatory proceedings to which it is a party and accrues a loss contingency when the loss is probable and reasonably estimable. Loss contingencies are recorded in provision for litigation on the consolidated statements of operations. These judgments are subjective based on the status of the legal or regulatory proceedings, the merits of its defenses and consultation with in-house and external legal counsel. Legal costs are expensed as incurred and recorded in general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of operations.
Settlement and other risk management - Mastercard’s rules guarantee the settlement of many of the payment network transactions between its customers. Settlement exposure is the outstanding settlement risk to customers under Mastercard’s rules due to the difference in timing between the payment transaction date and subsequent settlement. For those transactions the Company guarantees, the guarantee will cover the full amount of the settlement obligation to the extent the settlement obligation is not otherwise satisfied. The duration of the settlement exposure is short-term and generally limited to a few days.
The Company also enters into agreements in the ordinary course of business under which the Company agrees to indemnify third parties against damages, losses and expenses incurred in connection with legal and other proceedings arising from relationships or transactions with the Company. As the extent of the Company’s obligations under these agreements depends entirely upon the occurrence of future events, the Company’s potential future liability under these agreements is not determinable.
The Company accounts for each of its guarantees by recording the guarantee at its fair value at the inception or modification date through earnings.
Settlement assets/obligations - The Company operates systems for settling payment transactions among participants in the payments ecosystem in which the Company operates. Settlement is generally completed on a same-day basis. In some circumstances, however, funds may not settle until subsequent business days. In addition, the Company may receive or post funds in advance of transactions related to certain payments capabilities. The Company classifies the balances arising from these various activities as settlement assets and settlement obligations.
Income taxes - The Company follows an asset and liability based approach in accounting for income taxes as required under GAAP. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are recorded to reflect the tax consequences on future years of temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and income tax bases of assets and liabilities. Deferred income taxes are displayed separately as noncurrent assets and liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. Valuation allowances are provided against assets which are not more likely than not to be realized. The Company recognizes all material tax positions, including uncertain tax positions in which it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained based on its technical merits and if challenged by the relevant taxing authorities. At each balance sheet date, unresolved uncertain tax positions are reassessed to
determine whether subsequent developments require a change in the amount of recognized tax benefit. The allowance for uncertain tax positions is recorded in other current and noncurrent liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. The Company records interest expense related to income tax matters as interest expense on the consolidated statements of operations. The Company includes penalties related to income tax matters in the income tax provision.
Cash and cash equivalents - Cash and cash equivalents include certain investments with daily liquidity and with an original maturity of three months or less from the date of purchase. Cash equivalents are recorded at cost, which approximates fair value.
Restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents - The Company classifies cash and cash equivalents as restricted when it is unavailable for withdrawal or use in its general operations. The Company has the following types of restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents (“restricted cash”) that are included in the reconciliation of beginning-of-period and end-of-period amounts shown on the consolidated statements of cash flows:
Restricted cash - Restricted cash includes cash segregated to meet regulatory commitments, cash within qualified legal settlement funds and cash restricted for other general business purposes, including contractually restricted deposits as well as cash balances that are restricted based on the Company’s intention with regard to usage.
Restricted security deposits held for customers - The Company requires certain customers to enter into risk mitigation arrangements, including cash collateral and/or forms of credit enhancement such as letters of credit and guarantees, for settlement of their transactions. Certain risk mitigation arrangements for settlement, such as standby letters of credit and bank guarantees, are not recorded on the consolidated balance sheets. The Company also holds cash deposits and certificates of deposit from certain customers as collateral for settlement of their transactions, which are recorded as assets on the consolidated balance sheets. These assets are fully offset by corresponding liabilities included on the consolidated balance sheets. The amount of these security deposits and the duration held are determined by the risk profile of the individual customer and the Company’s risk management practices.
Fair value - The Company measures certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis by estimating the price that would be received upon the sale of an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. The Company also measures certain financial and non-financial assets and liabilities at fair value on a nonrecurring basis, when a change in fair value or impairment is evidenced. The Company classifies these recurring and nonrecurring fair value measurements into a three-level hierarchy (“Valuation Hierarchy”).
The Valuation Hierarchy is based upon the transparency of inputs to the valuation of an asset or liability as of the measurement date. A financial instrument’s categorization within the Valuation Hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The three levels of the Valuation Hierarchy are as follows: 
Level 1 - inputs to the valuation methodology are quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets.
Level 2 - inputs to the valuation methodology include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in inactive markets and inputs that are observable for the asset or liability.
Level 3 - inputs to the valuation methodology are unobservable and cannot be directly corroborated by observable market data.
The Company’s financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis include investment securities available-for-sale, marketable securities, derivative instruments and deferred compensation. The Company’s financial assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis include nonmarketable securities. The Company’s non-financial assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis include property, equipment and right-of-use assets, goodwill and other intangible assets and are subject to fair value adjustments in certain circumstances, such as when there is evidence of impairment.
Investment securities - The Company classifies investments as available-for-sale or held-to-maturity at the date of acquisition.
Available-for-sale debt securities:
Investments in debt securities that are available to meet the Company’s current operational needs are classified as current assets and the securities that are not available for current operational needs are classified as noncurrent assets on the consolidated balance sheets.
The debt securities are carried at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses, net of tax, recorded as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) on the consolidated statements of changes in equity. Net realized gains and losses on debt securities are recognized in investment income on the consolidated statements of operations. The specific identification method is used to determine realized gains and losses.
The Company evaluates its debt securities for impairment on an ongoing basis. When there has been a decline in fair value of a debt security below the amortized cost basis, the Company recognizes an impairment if: (1) it has the intent to sell the security; (2) it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell the security before recovery of the amortized cost basis;
or (3) it does not expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security. The credit loss component of the impairment is recognized as an allowance and recorded in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of operations while the non-credit related loss remains in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) until realized from a sale or subsequent impairment.
Held-to-maturity securities:
Time deposits - The Company classifies time deposits with original maturities greater than three months as held-to-maturity. Held-to-maturity securities that mature within one year are classified as current assets within investments on the consolidated balance sheets while held-to-maturity securities with maturities of greater than one year are classified as other assets. Time deposits are carried at amortized cost on the consolidated balance sheets and are intended to be held until maturity.
Equity investments - The Company holds equity securities of publicly traded and privately held companies.
Marketable equity securities - Marketable equity securities are strategic investments in publicly traded companies and are measured at fair value using quoted prices in their respective active markets with changes recorded through gains (losses) on equity investments, net on the consolidated statements of operations. Marketable equity securities that are expected to be held as part of the Company’s long-term investment strategy are classified in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets.
Nonmarketable equity investments - The Company’s nonmarketable equity investments, which are reported in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets, include strategic investments in privately held companies without readily determinable market values. The Company uses discounted cash flows and market assumptions to estimate the fair value of its nonmarketable equity investments when certain events or circumstances indicate that impairment may exist. The Company’s nonmarketable equity investments are accounted for under the measurement alternative method or equity method.
Measurement alternative method - The Company accounts for investments in common stock or in-substance common stock under the measurement alternative method of accounting when it does not exercise significant influence, generally when it holds less than 20% ownership in the entity or when the interest in a limited partnership or limited liability company is less than 5% and the Company has no significant influence over the operations of the investee. Investments in companies that Mastercard does not control, but that are not in the form of common stock or in-substance common stock, are also accounted for under the measurement alternative method of accounting. Measurement alternative investments are measured at cost, less any impairment and adjusted for changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for identical or similar investments of the same issuer. Fair value adjustments, as well as impairments, are included in gains (losses) on equity investments, net on the consolidated statements of operations.
Equity method - The Company accounts for investments in common stock or in-substance common stock under the equity method of accounting when it has the ability to exercise significant influence over the operations of the investee, generally when it holds between 20% and 50% ownership in the entity. The excess of the cost over the underlying net equity of investments accounted for under the equity method is allocated to identifiable tangible and intangible assets and liabilities based on fair values at the date of acquisition. The amortization of the excess of the cost over the underlying net equity of investments and Mastercard’s share of net earnings or losses of entities accounted for under the equity method of accounting is included in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of operations.
In addition, investments in flow-through entities such as limited partnerships and limited liability companies are also accounted for under the equity method when the Company has the ability to exercise significant influence over the operations of the investee, generally when the investment ownership percentage is equal to or greater than 5% of the outstanding ownership interest. The Company’s share of net earnings or losses for these investments are included in gains (losses) on equity investments, net on the consolidated statements of operations.
Derivative and hedging instruments - The Company’s derivative financial instruments are recorded as either assets or liabilities on the balance sheet and measured at fair value. The Company’s foreign exchange and interest rate derivative contracts are included in Level 2 of the Valuation Hierarchy as the fair value of the contracts are based on inputs that are observable based on broker quotes for the same or similar instruments. The Company does not enter into derivative instruments for trading or speculative purposes. For derivatives that are not designated as hedging instruments, realized and unrealized gains and losses from the change in fair value of the derivatives are recognized in current earnings.
The Company’s derivatives that are designated as hedging instruments are required to meet established accounting criteria. In addition, an effectiveness assessment is required to demonstrate that the derivative is expected to be highly effective at offsetting changes in fair value or cash flows of the underlying exposure both at inception of the hedging relationship and on an ongoing basis. The method of assessing hedge effectiveness and measuring hedge results is formally documented at hedge inception and assessed at least quarterly throughout the designated hedge period.
The Company may designate derivative instruments as cash flow, fair value and net investment hedges, as follows:
Cash flow hedges - Fair value adjustments to derivative instruments are recorded, net of tax, in other comprehensive income (loss) on the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. Any gains and losses deferred in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are subsequently reclassified to the corresponding line item on the consolidated statements of operations when the underlying hedged transactions impact earnings. For hedges that are no longer deemed highly effective, hedge accounting is discontinued prospectively, and any gains and losses remaining in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are reclassified to earnings when the underlying forecasted transaction occurs. Any amounts excluded from effectiveness testing of cash flow hedges are recognized in earnings over the life of the hedging instrument. If it is probable that the forecasted transaction will no longer occur, the associated gains or losses in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are reclassified to the corresponding line item on the consolidated statements of operations in current earnings.
Fair value hedges - Changes in the fair value of derivative instruments are recorded in current-period earnings, along with the gain or loss on the hedged asset or liability (“hedged item”) that is attributable to the hedged risk. All amounts recognized in earnings are recorded to the corresponding line item on the consolidated statements of operations as the earnings effect of the hedged item. Hedged items are measured on the consolidated balance sheets at their carrying amount adjusted for any changes in fair value attributable to the hedged risk (“basis adjustments”). The Company defers the amortization of any basis adjustments until the end of the derivative instrument’s term. If the hedge designation is discontinued for reasons other than derecognition of the hedged item, the remaining basis adjustments are amortized in accordance with applicable GAAP for the hedged item.
Net investment hedges - The Company has numerous investments in foreign subsidiaries. The net assets of these subsidiaries are exposed to volatility in foreign currency exchange rates. The Company may use foreign currency denominated debt and/or derivative instruments to hedge a portion of its net investment in foreign operations against adverse movements in exchange rates. The effective portion of the foreign currency gains and losses related to the hedging instruments are reported in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) on the consolidated balance sheets as a cumulative translation adjustment component of equity. Gains and losses in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are reclassified to earnings only if the Company sells or substantially liquidates its net investments in foreign subsidiaries. Amounts excluded from effectiveness testing of net investment hedges are recognized in earnings over the life of the hedging instrument. The Company evaluates the effectiveness of the net investment hedge each quarter.
Property, equipment and right-of-use assets - Property and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Depreciation of leasehold improvements and amortization of finance leases is included in depreciation and amortization expense on the consolidated statements of operations. Operating lease amortization expense is included in general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of operations.
The Company determines if a contract is, or contains, a lease at contract inception. The Company’s right-of-use (“ROU”) assets are primarily related to operating leases for office space, automobiles and other equipment. Leases are included in property, equipment and right-of-use assets, other current liabilities and other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.
ROU assets represent the right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent the obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. ROU assets and lease liabilities are recognized at the commencement date based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. In addition, ROU assets include initial direct costs incurred by the lessee as well as any lease payments made at or before the commencement date, and exclude lease incentives. As most of the Company's leases do not provide an implicit rate, the Company uses its incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at the commencement date in determining the present value of lease payments. The incremental borrowing rate is determined by using the rate of interest that the Company would pay to borrow on a collateralized basis an amount equal to the lease payments for a similar term and in a similar economic environment. Lease terms include options to extend or terminate the lease when it is reasonably certain that the Company will exercise that option. Leases with a term of one year or less are excluded from ROU assets and liabilities.
The Company excludes variable lease payments in measuring ROU assets and lease liabilities, other than those that depend on an index, a rate or are in-substance fixed payments. Lease and nonlease components are generally accounted for separately. When available, consideration is allocated to the separate lease and nonlease components in a lease contract on a relative standalone price basis using observable standalone prices.
Pension and other postretirement plans - The Company recognizes the funded status of its single-employer defined benefit pension plans and postretirement plans as assets or liabilities on its consolidated balance sheets and recognizes changes in the funded status in the year in which the changes occur through accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). The funded status is measured as the difference between the fair value of plan assets and the projected benefit obligation at December 31, the measurement date.
Overfunded plans, if any, are aggregated and recorded in other assets, while underfunded plans, if any, are aggregated and recorded as accrued expenses and other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.
Net periodic pension and postretirement benefit cost/(income), excluding the service cost component, is recognized in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of operations. These costs include interest cost, expected return on plan assets, amortization of prior service costs or credits and gains or losses previously recognized as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). The service cost component is recognized in general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of operations.
Defined contribution plans - The Company’s contributions to defined contribution plans are recorded as employees render service to the Company. The charge is recorded in general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of operations.
Advertising and marketing - Expenses incurred to promote Mastercard’s brand, products and services are recognized in advertising and marketing on the consolidated statements of operations. The timing of recognition is dependent on the type of advertising or marketing expense.
Foreign currency remeasurement and translation - Revenue and expense transactions in currencies other than applicable functional currency of an entity are converted to the functional currency at the exchange rate on the transaction date. Monetary assets and liabilities in a currency other than the functional currency are remeasured using current exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. Non-monetary assets and liabilities are recorded at historical exchange rates. Resulting exchange gains and losses related to remeasurement are included in general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of operations.
Where a non-U.S. currency is the functional currency, translation from that functional currency to U.S. dollars is performed for balance sheet accounts using current exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date and for revenue and expense accounts using a weighted-average exchange rate for the period. Resulting translation adjustments are reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).
Government grants - The Company receives government grants from various jurisdictions spanning multiple years, primarily to support investment initiatives in those jurisdictions. Government grants, primarily cash grants, are recognized when there is reasonable assurance that the grant will be received and compliance with the conditions specified in the agreement will be met. Within the consolidated statements of operations, the Company records operating-related grants as a reduction to expense in the same line item as the expenditure for which the grant is intended to compensate. Government grants that are not intended to compensate operating expenses are recorded in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of operations.
Treasury stock - The Company records the repurchase of shares of its common stock at cost on the trade date of the transaction. These shares are considered treasury stock, which is a reduction to stockholders’ equity. Treasury stock is included in authorized and issued shares but excluded from outstanding shares. The Company also records an excise tax of 1% on the fair market value of net repurchases of shares of its common stock within treasury stock.
Share-based payments - The Company measures share-based compensation expense at the grant date, based on the estimated fair value of the award and uses the straight-line method of attribution, net of estimated forfeitures, for expensing awards over the requisite employee service period. The Company estimates the fair value of its non-qualified stock option awards (“Options”) using a Black-Scholes valuation model. The fair value of restricted stock units (“RSUs”) is determined and fixed on the grant date based on the Company’s stock price, adjusted for the exclusion of dividend equivalents. The Monte Carlo simulation valuation model is used to determine the grant date fair value of performance stock units (“PSUs”) granted. All share-based compensation expenses are recorded in general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of operations.
Earnings per share - The Company calculates basic earnings per share (“EPS”) by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the year. Diluted EPS is calculated by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the year, adjusted for the potentially dilutive effect of stock options and unvested stock units using the treasury stock method.
Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted
Disaggregation of Income Statement Expenses - In November 2024, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued accounting guidance to improve the disclosures of a public business entity’s expenses and address requests from investors for more detailed information about the types of expenses in commonly presented expense captions. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2026, and interim periods after December 15, 2027. The Company is in the process of evaluating when it will adopt this guidance.
Targeted Improvements to the Accounting for Internal-Use Software - In September 2025, the FASB issued accounting guidance to modernize the accounting for internal-use software costs by eliminating the consideration of project development stages and clarifying the criteria for capitalization. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2027, including interim periods. The Company is in the process of evaluating when it will adopt and assessing the impact of this guidance on its financial statements.
Accounting for Government Grants Received by Business Entities - In December 2025, the FASB issued accounting guidance on the recognition, measurement and presentation for government grants received by business entities. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2028, including interim periods. The Company is in the process of evaluating when it will adopt and assessing the impact of this guidance on its financial statements.
v3.25.4
Acquisitions Business Combination
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Business Combination, Asset Acquisition, Transaction between Entities under Common Control, and Joint Venture Formation [Abstract]  
Business Combination Acquisitions
In 2025, the Company did not complete any business acquisitions.
In 2024, the Company acquired businesses for total cash consideration of $2.8 billion. In December 2024, Mastercard acquired a 100% equity interest in RF Ultimate Parent, Inc. (“Recorded Future”), a global threat intelligence company, for cash consideration of $2.7 billion. This acquisition is expected to add threat intelligence capabilities to Mastercard’s identity, fraud prevention, real-time decisioning and cybersecurity services. The net assets acquired primarily related to intangible assets, including goodwill of $1.7 billion that is primarily attributable to the synergies expected to arise after the acquisition date. None of the goodwill is expected to be deductible for local tax purposes.
In 2023, the Company did not complete any material business acquisitions.
These acquisitions align with the Company’s strategy to grow, diversify and build the Company’s business. Refer to Note 1 (Summary of Significant Accounting Policies) for the valuation techniques Mastercard utilizes to fair value the respective components of business combinations.
In 2025, the Company finalized the purchase accounting for the businesses acquired in 2024. The fair values of the purchase price allocations in aggregate, as of the acquisition dates, are noted below for the businesses acquired in 2024.
2024
(in millions)
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$270 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
79 
Goodwill1,736 
Other intangible assets, net
1,361 
Other assets20 
Total assets3,466 
Liabilities:
Other current liabilities413 
Deferred income taxes 207 
Other liabilities65 
Total liabilities685 
Net assets acquired$2,781 
The following table summarizes the identified intangible assets acquired in 2024:
20242024
Acquisition Date Fair ValueWeighted-Average Useful Life
(in millions)(in years)
Developed technologies$530 8.9
Customer relationships781 15.0
Other
50 9.0
Other intangible assets, net
$1,361 12.4
Proforma information related to these acquisitions was not included because the impact on the Company's consolidated results of operations was not considered to be material.
v3.25.4
Revenue
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]  
Revenue Revenue
Mastercard is a payments network service provider that generates revenue from a wide range of payments solutions provided to customers. Revenue from contracts with customers is recognized when services are performed in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the Company expects to be entitled to in exchange for those services (i.e., fees charged to customers). The Company disaggregates its net revenue from contracts with customers into two categories: (i) payment network and (ii) value-added services and solutions. The Company’s net revenue categories, payment network and value-added services and solutions, are recognized net of rebates and incentives provided to customers. Rebates and incentives can be either fixed or variable and are attributed to the category of revenue to which they pertain.
Payment network
Mastercard’s payment network involves four participants in addition to the Company: account holders (a person or entity who holds a card or uses another device enabled for payment), issuers (the account holders’ financial institutions), merchants and acquirers (the merchants’ financial institutions). Revenue from the Company’s payment network is primarily generated by charging fees to customers (issuers, acquirers and other market participants) for providing switching and other network-related services, as well as by charging fees to customers based primarily on the gross dollar volume of activity (GDV, which includes both domestic and cross-border volume) on the cards that carry the Company’s brands. As a payments network service provider, the Company provides its customers with continuous access to its global payments network and stands ready to provide transaction processing over the contractual term. Consideration is variable and is recognized as revenue in the period in which volumes and transactions occur.
Value-added services and solutions
The Company generates revenues from value-added services and solutions through either fixed or transaction-based fees. These services and solutions can be integrated and sold with the Company’s payment network services or can be sold on a stand-alone basis. These services and solutions primarily include security solutions, consumer acquisition and engagement services, business and market insights, digital and authentication solutions, processing and gateway, ACH batch and real-time account-based payments and solutions, and open finance. Revenue from these services and solutions is recognized in the period in which the related services and solutions are performed or transactions occur.
The Company’s disaggregated net revenue by category and geographic region were as follows for the years ended December 31:
 202520242023
(in millions)
Net revenue by category:
Payment network$19,476 $17,335 $15,824 
Value-added services and solutions13,315 10,832 9,274 
Net revenue$32,791 $28,167 $25,098 
Net revenue by geographic region:
Americas 1
$14,044 $12,375 $11,135 
Asia Pacific, Europe, Middle East and Africa
18,747 15,792 13,963 
Net revenue$32,791 $28,167 $25,098 
1Americas includes the United States, Canada and Latin America.
The Company’s customers are generally billed weekly, with certain billings occurring on a monthly and quarterly basis. The frequency of billing is dependent upon the nature of the performance obligation and the underlying contractual terms. The Company does not typically offer extended payment terms to customers. The following table sets forth the location of the amounts recognized on the consolidated balance sheets from contracts with customers at December 31:
20252024
(in millions)
Receivables from contracts with customers
Accounts receivable
$4,010 $3,491 
Contract assets
Prepaid expenses and other current assets189 210 
Other assets508 460 
Deferred revenue 1
Other current liabilities1,137 890 
Other liabilities424 449 
1    Revenue recognized from performance obligations satisfied in 2025 was $3.5 billion.

The Company’s remaining performance periods for its contracts with customers for its payments network services are typically long-term in nature (generally up to 10 years). As a payments network service provider, the Company provides its customers with continuous access to its global payments network and stands ready to provide transaction processing and related services over the contractual term. Consideration is variable as the Company generates volume- and transaction-based revenues from charging fees on its customers’ current period activity. The Company has elected the optional exemption to not disclose the remaining performance obligations related to its payments network services. The Company also earns revenue from value-added services and solutions. At December 31, 2025, the estimated aggregate consideration allocated to unsatisfied performance obligations for these services and solutions is $2.0 billion, which is expected to be recognized through 2030. The estimated remaining performance obligations related to these revenues are subject to change and are affected by several factors, including modifications and terminations and are not expected to be material to any future annual period.
v3.25.4
Earnings Per Share
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]  
Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share
The components of basic and diluted EPS for common shares for each of the years ended December 31 were as follows:
 202520242023
 (in millions, except per share data)
Numerator
Net income$14,968 $12,874 $11,195 
Denominator
Basic weighted-average shares outstanding905 925 944 
Dilutive stock options and stock units
Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding 1
906 927 946 
Earnings per Share
Basic$16.54 $13.91 $11.86 
Diluted$16.52 $13.89 $11.83 
Note: Table may not sum due to rounding.
1For the years presented, the calculation of diluted EPS excluded a minimal amount of anti-dilutive share-based payment awards.
v3.25.4
Investments
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]  
Investments Investments
The Company’s investments on the consolidated balance sheets include both available-for-sale and held-to-maturity debt securities (see Investments section below). The Company’s strategic investments in equity securities of publicly traded and privately held companies are classified within other assets on the consolidated balance sheets (see Equity Investments section below).
Investments
Investments on the consolidated balance sheets consisted of the following at December 31:
20252024
(in millions)
Available-for-sale securities
$319 $292 
Held-to-maturity securities 1
13 38 
Total investments $332 $330 
1Held-to-maturity securities represent investments in time deposits that mature within one year. The cost of these securities approximates fair value.
Investment income on the consolidated statements of operations primarily consists of interest income generated from cash, cash equivalents, held-to-maturity and available-for-sale investment securities, as well as realized gains and losses on the Company’s investment securities. The realized gains and losses from the sales of available-for-sale securities for 2025, 2024 and 2023 were not material.
Available-for-Sale Securities
The Company’s available-for-sale securities consist of corporate securities, government and agency securities and asset-backed securities. Government and agency securities include U.S. government bonds, U.S. government sponsored agency bonds and foreign government bonds that are denominated in the national currency of the issuing country. Corporate and asset-backed securities held at December 31, 2025 and 2024 primarily carried a credit rating of A- or better. Corporate securities are comprised of commercial paper and corporate bonds. The gross unrealized gains and losses on the available-for-sale securities for 2025, 2024 and 2023 were not material and are recorded in other comprehensive income (loss).
The maturity distribution based on the contractual terms of the Company’s available-for-sale investment securities at December 31, 2025 was as follows:
Amortized
Cost
Fair Value
(in millions)
Due within 1 year$103 $103 
Due after 1 year through 5 years215 216 
Total$318 $319 
Equity Investments
Included in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets are equity investments with readily determinable fair values (“Marketable securities”) and equity investments without readily determinable fair values (“Nonmarketable securities”). Marketable securities are equity interests in publicly traded companies and are measured using unadjusted quoted prices in their respective active markets. Nonmarketable securities that do not qualify for equity method accounting are measured at cost, less any impairment and adjusted for changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for the identical or similar investments of the same issuer (“Measurement alternative”).
The following table is a summary of the activity related to the Company’s equity investments:
 Balance at December 31, 2024PurchasesSales
Changes in Fair Value 1
Other 2
Balance at December 31, 2025
(in millions)
Marketable securities $237 $— $(168)$(86)$220 $203 
Nonmarketable securities 1,370 339 (13)(2)(192)1,502 
Total equity investments $1,607 $339 $(181)$(88)$28 $1,705 
1Recorded in gains (losses) on equity investments, net on the consolidated statements of operations.
2Includes reclasses between Marketable and Nonmarketable securities as well as translational impact of currency.
The following table sets forth the components of the Company’s Nonmarketable securities at December 31:
20252024
(in millions)
Measurement alternative
$1,242 $1,140 
Equity method
260 230 
Total Nonmarketable securities$1,502 $1,370 
The following table summarizes the total carrying value of the Company’s Measurement alternative investments, including cumulative unrealized gains and losses through December 31:
2025
(in millions)
Initial cost basis
$932 
Cumulative adjustments 1:
Upward adjustments522 
Downward adjustments (including impairment)(212)
Carrying amount, end of period$1,242 
1Includes immaterial translational impact of currency.
The following table summarizes the unrealized gains and losses included in the carrying value of the Company’s Measurement alternative investments and Marketable securities for the years ended December 31:
202520242023
(in millions)
Measurement alternative investments:
Upward adjustments$31 $11 $
Downward adjustments (including impairment)(32)(9)(145)
Marketable securities:
Unrealized gains (losses), net(84)(34)97 
v3.25.4
Fair Value Measurements
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Financial Instruments, Financial Liabilities, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract]  
Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurements
The Company’s financial instruments are carried at fair value, cost or amortized cost on the consolidated balance sheets. The Company classifies its fair value measurements of financial instruments into a three-level hierarchy (the “Valuation Hierarchy”).
Financial Instruments - Carried at Fair Value
Financial instruments carried at fair value are categorized for fair value measurement purposes as recurring or non-recurring in nature.
Recurring Measurements
The distribution of the Company’s financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis within the Valuation Hierarchy was as follows:
 December 31, 2025December 31, 2024
 Quoted Prices
in Active
Markets
(Level 1)
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
TotalQuoted Prices
in Active
Markets
(Level 1)
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
Total
(in millions)
Assets
Investment securities:
Available-for-sale securities 1
$20 $299 $— $319 $36 $256 $— $292 
Derivative instruments 2:
Foreign exchange contracts— 35 — 35 — 206 — 206 
Marketable securities 3:
Equity securities203 — — 203 237 — — 237 
Liabilities
Derivative instruments 2:
Foreign exchange contracts$— $160 $— $160 $— $36 $— $36 
Interest rate contracts— 27 — 27 — 63 — 63 
1The Company’s U.S. government securities are classified within Level 1 of the Valuation Hierarchy as the fair values are based on unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets in active markets. The fair value of the Company’s available-for-sale non-U.S. government and agency securities, corporate and asset-backed securities are based on observable inputs such as quoted prices, benchmark yields and issuer spreads for similar assets in active markets and are therefore included in Level 2 of the Valuation Hierarchy.
2The Company’s foreign exchange and interest rate derivative asset and liability contracts measured at fair value are based on observable inputs such as broker quotes for similar derivative instruments. See Note 21 (Derivative and Hedging Instruments) for further details.
3The Company’s Marketable securities are publicly held and fair values are based on unadjusted quoted prices in their respective active markets.
Nonrecurring Measurements
Nonmarketable Securities
The Company’s Nonmarketable securities are recorded at fair value on a nonrecurring basis in periods after initial recognition under the equity method or measurement alternative method. Nonmarketable securities are classified within Level 3 of the Valuation Hierarchy due to the absence of quoted market prices, the inherent lack of liquidity and unobservable inputs used to measure fair value that require management’s judgment. The Company uses discounted cash flows and market assumptions to estimate the fair value of its Nonmarketable securities when certain events or circumstances indicate that impairment may exist. Observable price changes in orderly transactions for identical or similar investments of the same issuer could also result in fair value adjustments. See Note 5 (Investments) for further details.
Financial Instruments - Not Carried at Fair Value
Debt
Debt instruments are carried on the consolidated balance sheets at amortized cost. The Company estimates the fair value of its debt based on either market quotes or observable market data. Debt is classified as Level 2 of the Valuation Hierarchy as it is generally not traded in active markets. At December 31, 2025, the carrying value and fair value of debt was $19.0 billion and $18.0 billion, respectively. At December 31, 2024, the carrying value and fair value of debt was $18.2 billion and $16.8 billion, respectively. See Note 13 (Debt) for further details.
Other Financial Instruments
Certain other financial instruments are carried on the consolidated balance sheets at cost or amortized cost basis, which approximates fair value due to their short-term, highly liquid nature. These instruments include cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents, restricted security deposits held for customers, time deposits, accounts receivable, settlement assets, accounts payable, settlement obligations and other accrued liabilities.
v3.25.4
Prepaid Expenses and Other Assets
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Prepaid Expense and Other Assets [Abstract]  
Prepaid Expenses and Other Assets Prepaid Expenses and Other Assets
Prepaid expenses and other current assets consisted of the following at December 31:
20252024
(in millions)
Customer incentives
$2,531 $1,854 
Other1,212 1,138 
Total prepaid expenses and other current assets$3,743 $2,992 
Other assets consisted of the following at December 31:
20252024
(in millions)
Customer incentives
$7,870 $6,550 
Equity investments1,705 1,607 
Income taxes receivable1,101 1,002 
Other939 800 
Total other assets$11,615 $9,959 
v3.25.4
Property, Equipment and Right-of-Use Assets
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]  
Property, Equipment and Right-of-Use Assets Property, Equipment and Right-of-Use Assets
Property, equipment and right-of-use assets consisted of the following at December 31:
20252024
(in millions)
Buildings, building equipment and land$744 $709 
Equipment2,347 2,118 
Furniture and fixtures105 101 
Leasehold improvements497 436 
Operating lease right-of-use assets1,366 1,167 
Property, equipment and right-of-use assets5,059 4,531 
Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization(2,756)(2,393)
Property, equipment and right-of-use assets, net$2,303 $2,138 
Depreciation and amortization expense for the above property, equipment and right-of-use assets was $544 million, $519 million and $482 million for 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
Operating lease ROU assets and operating lease liabilities are recorded on the consolidated balance sheets as follows at December 31:
20252024
(in millions)
Balance sheet location
Property, equipment and right-of-use assets, net$750 $681 
Other current liabilities157 133 
Other liabilities676 627 
Operating lease amortization expense was $161 million, $145 million and $141 million for 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively. As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, the weighted-average remaining lease term of operating leases was 7.2 and 8.0 years, respectively, and the weighted-average discount rate for operating leases was 3.6% and 3.5%, respectively.
The useful lives of the Company’s assets are as follows:
Asset CategoryEstimated Useful Life
Buildings30 years
Building equipment
10 - 15 years
Equipment and furniture and fixtures
2 - 6 years
Leasehold improvementsShorter of life of improvement or lease term
Right-of-use assetsShorter of life of the asset or lease term
The following table summarizes the maturity of the Company’s operating lease liabilities at December 31, 2025 based on lease term:
(in millions)
2026$187 
2027151 
2028126 
2029101 
203087 
Thereafter306 
Total operating lease payments958 
Less: Interest(125)
Present value of operating lease liabilities$833 
v3.25.4
Goodwill
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]  
Goodwill Goodwill
The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended December 31 were as follows:
20252024
(in millions)
Beginning balance$9,193 $7,660 
Additions— 1,736 
Foreign currency translation367 (203)
Ending balance$9,560 $9,193 
The Company performed its annual qualitative assessment of goodwill during the fourth quarter of 2025 and determined a quantitative assessment was not necessary. The Company concluded that goodwill was not impaired and had no accumulated impairment losses at December 31, 2025.
v3.25.4
Other Intangible Assets
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract]  
Other Intangible Assets Other Intangible Assets
The following table sets forth net intangible assets, other than goodwill, at December 31:
20252024
Gross Carrying Amount
Accumulated Amortization
Net Carrying Amount
Gross Carrying Amount
Accumulated Amortization
Net Carrying Amount
(in millions)
Finite-lived intangible assets
Capitalized software 1
$5,415 $(2,110)$3,305 $4,797 $(1,640)$3,157 
Customer relationships2,967 (942)2,025 2,804 (720)2,084 
Other96 (44)52 99 (40)59 
Total8,478 (3,096)5,382 7,700 (2,400)5,300 
Indefinite-lived intangible assets
Customer relationships172 — 172 153 — 153 
Total$8,650 $(3,096)$5,554 $7,853 $(2,400)$5,453 
1Includes technology acquired in business combinations.
The increase in the gross carrying amount of finite-lived intangible assets in 2025 was primarily related to software additions to support the continued growth of the Company. Certain intangible assets are denominated in foreign currencies. As such, the change in intangible assets includes a component attributable to foreign currency translation. Based on the qualitative assessment performed in 2025, it was determined that the Company’s indefinite-lived intangible assets were not impaired.
Amortization on the finite-lived intangible assets above amounted to $760 million, $523 million and $457 million in 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The following table sets forth the estimated future amortization expense on finite-lived intangible assets on the consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2025:
(in millions)
2026$801 
2027765 
2028692 
2029647 
2030569 
Thereafter1,908 
Total$5,382 
v3.25.4
Accrued Expenses
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Accrued Liabilities [Abstract]  
Accrued Expenses Accrued Expenses
Accrued expenses consisted of the following at December 31:
20252024
 (in millions)
Customer incentives
$9,958 $7,627 
Personnel costs1,716 1,681 
Income and other taxes914 454 
Other684 631 
Total accrued expenses$13,272 $10,393 
As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, long-term customer incentives included in other liabilities were $3,041 million and $2,820 million, respectively.
v3.25.4
Pension, Postretirement and Savings Plans
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]  
Pension, Postretirement and Savings Plans Pension, Postretirement and Savings Plans
The Company and certain of its subsidiaries maintain various pension and other postretirement plans that cover substantially all employees worldwide.
Defined Contribution Plans
The Company sponsors defined contribution retirement plans. The primary plan is the Mastercard Savings Plan, a 401(k) plan for substantially all of the Company’s U.S. employees, which is subject to the provisions of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended. In addition, the Company has several defined contribution plans outside of the U.S. The Company’s total expense for its defined contribution plans was $302 million, $287 million and $253 million in 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
Defined Benefit and Other Postretirement Plans
The Company sponsors pension and postretirement plans for certain non-U.S. employees (the “non-U.S. Plans”) that cover various benefits specific to their country of employment. Additionally, the Company sponsors a defined benefit pension plan in the United Kingdom (the “U.K. Plan”) which was permanently closed to new entrants and future accruals as of July 21, 2013, however, plan participants’ obligations are adjusted for future salary changes. The term “Pension Plans” includes the non-U.S. Plans and the U.K. Plan.
The Company maintains a postretirement plan providing health coverage and life insurance benefits for substantially all of its U.S. employees hired before July 1, 2007 (the “Postretirement Plan”).
The Company uses a December 31 measurement date for the Pension Plans and its Postretirement Plan. The benefit obligation associated with the Postretirement Plan is immaterial. The following table sets forth the components of the Pension Plans recognized on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets at December 31:
20252024
(in millions)
Fair value of plan assets$499 $454 
Projected benefit obligation452 410 
Accumulated benefit obligation450 408 
Funded Status
47 44 
As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, the amount recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), before tax, for the Postretirement Plan was $3 million and $10 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, the amount recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), before tax, for the Pension Plans was $(15) million, and $(14) million, respectively.
v3.25.4
Debt
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Debt Instruments [Abstract]  
Debt Debt
Debt consisted of the following at December 31:
20252024Effective
Interest Rate
(in millions)
Senior Notes
2025 USD Notes
Floating Rate
Senior Notes due March 2028
$300 $— **
4.550 %
Senior Notes due March 2028
450 — 4.727 %
4.950 %
Senior Notes due March 2032
500 — 5.063 %
2024 USD Notes
4.100 %
Senior Notes due January 2028
750 750 4.262 %
4.350 %
Senior Notes due January 2032
1,150 1,150 4.446 %
4.550 %
Senior Notes due January 2035
1,100 1,100 4.633 %
4.875 %
Senior Notes due May 2034
1,000 1,000 5.047 %
2023 USD Notes4.875 %Senior Notes due March 2028750 750 5.003 %
4.850 %Senior Notes due March 2033750 750 4.923 %
2022 EUR Notes
1.000 %Senior Notes due February 2029882 781 1.138 %
2021 USD Notes2.000 %Senior Notes due November 2031750 750 2.112 %
1.900 %Senior Notes due March 2031600 600 1.981 %
2.950 %Senior Notes due March 2051700 700 3.013 %
2020 USD Notes3.300 %Senior Notes due March 20271,000 1,000 3.420 %
3.350 %Senior Notes due March 20301,500 1,500 3.430 %
3.850 %Senior Notes due March 20501,500 1,500 3.896 %
2019 USD Notes2.950 %Senior Notes due June 20291,000 1,000 3.030 %
3.650 %Senior Notes due June 20491,000 1,000 3.689 %
2.000 %Senior Notes due March 2025— 750 2.147 %
2018 USD Notes3.500 %Senior Notes due February 2028500 500 3.598 %
3.950 %Senior Notes due February 2048500 500 3.990 %
2016 USD Notes2.950 %Senior Notes due November 2026750 750 3.044 %
3.800 %Senior Notes due November 2046600 600 3.893 %
2015 EUR Notes
2.100 %Senior Notes due December 2027941 833 2.189 %
2.500 %Senior Notes due December 2030176 156 2.562 %
19,149 18,420 
Less: Unamortized discount and debt issuance costs(122)(131)
Less: Cumulative hedge accounting fair value adjustments 1
(27)(63)
Total debt outstanding19,000 18,226 
Less: Short-term debt 2
(749)(750)
Long-term debt$18,251 $17,476 
**The $300 million of Senior Notes due March 2028 are Floating Rate Notes that bear interest at a floating rate, reset quarterly, equal to the Compounded Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) plus 0.44%.
1The Company has an interest rate swap that is accounted for as a fair value hedge. See Note 21 (Derivative and Hedging Instruments) for additional information.
2As of December 31, 2025, the 2016 USD Notes due November 2026 were classified as short-term debt, net of unamortized discount and debt issuance costs, on the consolidated balance sheets. As of December 31, 2024, the 2019 USD Notes due March 2025 were classified as short-term debt, net of unamortized discount and debt issuance costs, on the consolidated balance sheets.
For the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, interest paid on the Company’s debt was $680 million, $571 million and $477 million, respectively.
Scheduled annual maturities of the principal portion of debt outstanding at December 31, 2025 are summarized below.
(in millions)
2026$750 
20271,941 
20282,750 
20291,882 
20301,676 
Thereafter10,150 
Total$19,149 
Senior Notes
In February 2025, the Company issued $300 million principal amount of Floating Rate Notes due March 2028, $450 million principal amount of 4.550% notes due March 2028 and $500 million principal amount of 4.950% notes due March 2032 (collectively, the “2025 USD Notes”). The net proceeds from the issuance of the 2025 USD Notes, after deducting the original issue discount, underwriting discount and offering expenses, were $1.242 billion.
During 2024, the Company issued a total of $4 billion of debt, as follows:
In May 2024, the Company issued $1 billion principal amount of notes due May 2034
In September 2024, the Company issued $750 million principal amount of notes due January 2028, $1,150 million principal amount of notes due January 2032 and $1,100 million principal amount of notes due January 2035
The issuances in 2024 are collectively referred to as the “2024 USD Notes”. The net proceeds from the issuance of the 2024 USD Notes, after deducting the original issue discount, underwriting discount and offering expenses, were $3.96 billion.
In March 2023, the Company issued $750 million principal amount of notes due March 2028 and $750 million principal amount of notes due March 2033 (collectively the “2023 USD Notes”). The net proceeds from the issuance of the 2023 USD Notes, after deducting the original issue discount, underwriting discount and offering expenses, were $1.489 billion.
The Senior Notes described above are not subject to any financial covenants and may be redeemed in whole, or in part, at the Company’s option at any time for a specified make-whole amount. These notes are senior unsecured obligations and would rank equally with any future unsecured and unsubordinated indebtedness.
Indian Rupee (“INR”) Term Loan
In April 2023, the Company entered into an unsecured INR4.97 billion term loan, due July 2023 (the “April 2023 INR Term Loan”). The net proceeds of the April 2023 INR Term Loan, after deducting issuance costs, were INR4.96 billion ($61 million as of the date of settlement). In July 2023, the Company modified and combined the April 2023 INR Term Loan with a separate INR22.6 billion term loan entered into in 2022 (collectively, the “2023 INR Term Loan”), increasing the total unsecured loans to INR28.1 billion ($342 million as of the date of settlement). The 2023 INR Term Loan matured in July 2024.
The Company obtained the INR Term Loans to serve as economic hedges to offset possible changes in the value of INR-denominated monetary assets due to foreign exchange fluctuations.
Commercial Paper Program and Credit Facility
As of December 31, 2025, the Company has a commercial paper program (the “Commercial Paper Program”) under which the Company is authorized to issue up to $8 billion in unsecured commercial paper notes with maturities of up to 397 days from the date of issuance. The Commercial Paper Program is available in U.S. dollars.
In conjunction with the Commercial Paper Program, the Company has a committed five-year unsecured $8 billion revolving credit facility (the “Credit Facility”). The Credit Facility, which previously was set to expire on November 7, 2029, was amended and extended and now expires on November 7, 2030. Borrowings under the Credit Facility are available in U.S. dollars and/or euros. The facility fee under the Credit Facility is determined according to the Company’s credit rating and is payable on the average daily commitment, regardless of usage, per annum. In addition to the facility fee, interest rates on borrowings under the Credit Facility would be based on prevailing market interest rates plus applicable margins that fluctuate based on the Company’s credit rating. The Credit Facility contains customary representations, warranties, affirmative and negative covenants, events of default and
indemnification provisions. The Company was in compliance in all material respects with the covenants of the Credit Facility at December 31, 2025 and 2024.
Borrowings under the Commercial Paper Program and the Credit Facility are to be used to provide liquidity for general corporate purposes, including providing liquidity in the event of one or more settlement failures by the Company’s customers. The Company may borrow and repay amounts under the Commercial Paper Program and Credit Facility for business continuity purposes. The Company had no borrowings under the Credit Facility or the Commercial Paper Program at December 31, 2025 and 2024.
v3.25.4
Stockholders' Equity
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]  
Stockholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity
Classes of Capital Stock
Mastercard’s amended and restated certificate of incorporation authorizes the following classes of capital stock:
ClassPar Value Per ShareAuthorized Shares
(in millions)
Dividend and Voting Rights
A$0.00013,000 One vote per share
Dividend rights
B$0.00011,200 Non-voting
Dividend rights
Preferred$0.0001300 No shares issued or outstanding at December 31, 2025 and 2024. Dividend and voting rights are to be determined by the Board of Directors of the Company upon issuance.
Dividends
The Company declared a quarterly cash dividend on its Class A and Class B Common Stock during each of the four quarters of 2025, 2024 and 2023. The total per share dividends declared during the years ended December 31 are summarized below: 
202520242023
(in millions, except per share data)
Dividends declared per share $3.15 $2.74 $2.37 
Total dividends declared$2,840 $2,526 $2,231 
Ownership and Governance Structure
Equity ownership and voting power of the Company’s shares were allocated as follows as of December 31:
20252024
Equity OwnershipGeneral Voting PowerEquity OwnershipGeneral Voting Power
Class A stockholders
99.3 %100.0 %99.3 %100.0 %
Class B stockholders (Principal or Affiliate Customers)
0.7 %— %0.7 %— %
Note: Table may not sum due to rounding.
Class B Common Stock Conversions
Shares of Class B common stock are convertible on a one-for-one basis into shares of Class A common stock.  Entities eligible to hold Mastercard’s Class B common stock are defined in the Company’s amended and restated certificate of incorporation (generally the Company’s principal or affiliate customers), and they are restricted from retaining ownership of shares of Class A common stock.  Class B stockholders are required to subsequently sell or otherwise transfer any shares of Class A common stock received pursuant to such a conversion. 
Common Stock Activity
The following table presents the changes in the Company’s outstanding Class A and Class B common stock:
 Outstanding Shares
 Class AClass B
(in millions)
Balance at December 31, 2022948.4 7.6 
Purchases of treasury stock(23.8)— 
Share-based payments2.3 — 
Conversion of Class B to Class A common stock0.4 (0.4)
Balance at December 31, 2023927.3 7.2 
Purchases of treasury stock(23.0)— 
Share-based payments1.9 — 
Conversion of Class B to Class A common stock0.4 (0.4)
Balance at December 31, 2024906.6 6.8 
Purchases of treasury stock(21.1)— 
Share-based payments1.6 — 
Conversion of Class B to Class A common stock0.2 (0.2)
Balance at December 31, 2025887.3 6.6 
The Company’s Board of Directors has approved programs authorizing the Company to repurchase shares of its Class A common stock. The following table summarizes the Company’s share repurchase authorizations of its Class A common stock for the years ended December 31:
202520242023
(In millions, except per share data)
Board authorization$14,000 $12,000 $11,000 
Dollar-value of shares repurchased
$11,727 $10,954 $9,032 
Shares repurchased21.1 23.0 23.8 
Average price paid per share$555.78 $475.35 $379.49 
As of December 31, 2025, the remaining authorization under the share repurchase programs approved by the Company’s Board of Directors was $17.5 billion.
The Company repurchased an additional $1.1 billion dollar-value of shares in 2026, through February 6, 2026. As of February 6, 2026, the remaining authorization under the share repurchase programs approved by the Company’s Board of Directors was $16.3 billion.
v3.25.4
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]  
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
The changes in the balances of each component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, for the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024 were as follows:
December 31, 2024Increase / (Decrease)ReclassificationsDecember 31, 2025
(in millions)
Foreign currency translation adjustments 1
$(1,558)$524 $— $(1,034)
Translation adjustments on net investment hedges 2
295 (169)— 126 
Cash flow hedges
Foreign exchange contracts 3
(51)(281)378 46 
Interest rate contracts(113)— (107)
Defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans
(6)(6)— (12)
Investment securities available-for-sale— — — — 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)$(1,433)$68 $384 $(981)
December 31, 2023Increase / (Decrease)ReclassificationsDecember 31, 2024
(in millions)
Foreign currency translation adjustments 1
$(1,119)$(439)$— $(1,558)
Translation adjustments on net investment hedges 2
181 114 — 295 
Cash flow hedges
Foreign exchange contracts 3
(17)149 (183)(51)
Interest rate contracts(118)— (113)
Defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans
(25)19 — (6)
Investment securities available-for-sale(1)— — 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)$(1,099)$(156)$(178)$(1,433)
1During 2025, the decrease in the accumulated other comprehensive loss related to foreign currency translation adjustments was driven primarily by the appreciation of the euro and British pound against the U.S. dollar. During 2024, the increase in the accumulated other comprehensive loss related to foreign currency translation adjustments was driven primarily by the depreciation of the euro, Brazilian real, and British pound against the U.S. dollar.
2During 2025, the decrease in the accumulated other comprehensive income related to the net investment hedges was driven by the appreciation of the euro against the U.S. dollar. During 2024, the increase in the accumulated other comprehensive income related to the net investment hedges was driven by the depreciation of the euro and British pound against the U.S. dollar. See Note 21 (Derivative and Hedging Instruments) for additional information.
3Certain foreign exchange derivative contracts are designated as cash flow hedging instruments. Gains and losses resulting from changes in the fair value of these contracts are deferred in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and subsequently reclassified to the consolidated statements of operations when the underlying hedged transactions impact earnings. See Note 21 (Derivative and Hedging Instruments) for additional information.
v3.25.4
Share-Based Payments
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Share-Based Payment Arrangement, Additional Disclosure [Abstract]  
Share-based Payments Share-Based Payments
In May 2006, the Company granted the following awards under the Mastercard Incorporated 2006 Long Term Incentive Plan, which was amended and restated as of June 22, 2021 (the “LTIP”). The LTIP is a stockholder-approved plan that permits the grant of various types of equity awards to employees. The Company has granted Options, RSUs and PSUs under the LTIP. The Company uses the straight-line method of attribution for expensing all equity awards. Compensation expense is recorded net of estimated forfeitures, with estimates adjusted as appropriate.
There are approximately 116 million shares of Class A common stock authorized for equity awards under the LTIP. Although the LTIP permits the issuance of shares of Class B common stock, no such shares have been authorized for issuance. Shares issued as a result of Option exercises and the conversions of RSUs and PSUs were funded primarily with the issuance of new shares of Class A common stock.
Stock Options
Options expire ten years from the date of grant and vest ratably over three years. For Options granted, a participant’s unvested awards are forfeited upon termination; however, in the event a participant terminates employment due to disability or retirement more than seven months after receiving the award, the participant retains all of their awards without providing additional service to the Company. Retirement eligibility is dependent upon age and years of service. Compensation expense is recognized over the vesting period as stated in the LTIP.
The fair value of each Option is estimated on the date of grant using a Black-Scholes option pricing model. The following table presents the weighted-average assumptions used in the valuation and the resulting weighted-average fair value per Option granted for the years ended December 31:
202520242023
Risk-free rate of return4.1 %4.2 %4.2 %
Expected term (in years)6.006.006.00
Expected volatility27.4 %28.7 %29.5 %
Expected dividend yield0.5 %0.6 %0.6 %
Weighted-average fair value per Option granted$192.87 $164.66 $123.22 
The risk-free rate of return was based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect on the date of grant. The expected term and the expected volatility were based on historical Mastercard information. The expected dividend yields were based on the Company’s expected annual dividend rate on the date of grant.
The following table summarizes the Company’s Option activity for the year ended December 31, 2025:
OptionsWeighted-Average Exercise PriceWeighted-Average Remaining Contractual TermAggregate Intrinsic Value
(in millions)(in years)(in millions)
Outstanding at January 1, 20252.1 $273 
Granted0.2 $574 
Exercised(0.5)$196 
Forfeited— $453 
Outstanding at December 31, 20251.8 $325 5.2$432 
Exercisable at December 31, 20251.4 $274 4.2$403 
Options vested and expected to vest at December 31, 20251.8 $325 5.2$432 
As of December 31, 2025, there was $14 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested Options. The cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.7 years.
Restricted Stock Units
RSUs generally vest ratably over three years. A participant’s unvested awards are forfeited upon termination of employment; however, in the event of termination due to job elimination (as defined by the Company), a participant will retain a pro-rata portion of the unvested awards for services performed through the date of termination. In the event a participant terminates employment due to disability or retirement more than seven months after receiving the award, the participant retains all of their awards without providing additional service to the Company. Compensation expense is recognized over the shorter of the vesting periods stated in the LTIP or the date the individual becomes eligible to retire but not less than seven months.
The following table summarizes the Company’s RSU activity for the year ended December 31, 2025:
UnitsWeighted-Average Grant-Date Fair ValueAggregate Intrinsic Value
(in millions)(in millions)
Outstanding at January 1, 20252.1 $403 
Granted1.0 $566 
Converted(1.1)$385 
Forfeited(0.1)$470 
Outstanding at December 31, 20251.9 $498 $1,070 
RSUs expected to vest at December 31, 20251.8 $498 $1,032 
The fair value of each RSU is the closing stock price on the New York Stock Exchange of the Company’s Class A common stock on the date of grant, adjusted for the exclusion of dividend equivalents. Upon vesting, a portion of the RSU award may be withheld to satisfy the minimum statutory withholding taxes. The remaining RSUs will be settled in shares of the Company’s Class A common stock after the vesting period. As of December 31, 2025, there was $465 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested RSUs. The cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.8 years.
Performance Stock Units
PSUs vest after three years and are subject to a mandatory one-year post-vest hold, during which they are eligible for dividend equivalents. A participant’s unvested awards are forfeited upon termination of employment; however, in the event of termination due to job elimination (as defined by the Company), a participant will retain a pro-rata portion of the unvested awards for services performed through the date of termination. In the event a participant terminates employment due to disability or retirement more than seven months after receiving the award, the participant retains all of their awards without providing additional service to the Company.
The following table summarizes the Company’s PSU activity for the year ended December 31, 2025:
UnitsWeighted-Average
Grant-Date Fair Value
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
(in millions)(in millions)
Outstanding at January 1, 20250.6 $396 
Granted0.2 $608 
Converted(0.2)$335 
Other— $364 
Outstanding at December 31, 20250.6 $472 $335 
PSUs expected to vest at December 31, 20250.6 $472 $331 
Since 2013, PSUs containing performance and market conditions have been issued. Performance measures used to determine the actual number of shares that vest after three years include net revenue growth, EPS growth and relative total shareholder return (“TSR”).  Relative TSR is considered a market condition, while net revenue and EPS growth are considered performance conditions.  The Monte Carlo simulation valuation model is used to determine the grant-date fair value. 
Compensation expense for PSUs is recognized over the requisite service period, or the date the individual becomes eligible to retire but not less than seven months, if it is probable that the performance target will be achieved and subsequently adjusted if the probability assessment changes. As of December 31, 2025, there was $31 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested PSUs. The cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.6 years.
Additional Information
The following table includes additional share-based payment information for each of the years ended December 31:
202520242023
(in millions, except weighted-average fair value)
Share-based compensation expense
$597 $526 $460 
Income tax benefit recognized for equity awards128 111 99 
Income tax benefit realized related to Options exercised26 77 95 
Options
Total intrinsic value of Options exercised180 354 487 
RSUs
Weighted-average grant-date fair value of awards granted 566 472 350 
Total grant-date fair value of awards vested421 340 235 
Total intrinsic value of RSUs converted into shares of Class A common stock622 477 253 
PSUs
Weighted-average grant-date fair value of awards granted608 512 365 
Total grant-date fair value of awards vested79 99 12 
Total intrinsic value of PSUs converted into shares of Class A common stock135 122 14 
v3.25.4
Commitments
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]  
Commitments Commitments
At December 31, 2025, the Company had the following future minimum payments due under noncancelable agreements, primarily related to sponsorships to promote the Mastercard brand and licensing arrangements. The amount accrued related to these future payments as of December 31, 2025 was not material.
(in millions)
2026$714 
2027581 
2028291 
2029131 
2030115 
Thereafter201 
Total$2,033 
v3.25.4
Income Taxes
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]  
Income Taxes Income Taxes
Components of Income and Income Tax Expense
The domestic and foreign components of income before income taxes for the years ended December 31 were as follows:
202520242023
(in millions)
United States$6,652 $6,168 $4,506 
Foreign11,926 9,086 9,133 
Income before income taxes$18,578 $15,254 $13,639 
The total income tax provision for the years ended December 31 was comprised of the following components:
202520242023
(in millions)
Current
Federal$1,265 $1,093 $991 
State and local(198)144 127 
Foreign2,486 1,670 1,563 
Total current
3,553 2,907 2,681 
Deferred
Federal(173)(197)(180)
State and local32 (14)(18)
Foreign198 (316)(39)
Total deferred
57 (527)(237)
Income tax expense$3,610 $2,380 $2,444 
Effective Income Tax Rate
A reconciliation of the effective income tax rate to the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate for the years ended December 31, was as follows:
202520242023
AmountPercentAmountPercentAmountPercent
($ in millions)
Income before income taxes$18,578 $15,254 $13,639 
Federal statutory tax3,901 21.0 %3,203 21.0 %2,864 21.0 %
Foreign tax effects
Singapore
Statutory tax rate difference between Singapore and U.S.
(161)(0.9)%(162)(1.1)%(147)(1.1)%
Singapore tax incentive
(330)(1.8)%(644)(4.2)%(571)(4.2)%
Pillar 2 Rules
233 1.3 %— — %— — %
Other foreign jurisdictions
408 2.2 %240 1.6 %374 2.7 %
Effects of cross border tax laws
Foreign-derived intangible income deduction(204)(1.1)%(195)(1.3)%(144)(1.1)%
U.S. foreign tax credits
(259)(1.4)%(224)(1.5)%73 0.5 %
Other
140 0.8 %77 0.5 %110 0.8 %
Effects of changes in tax law
— — %— — %(688)(5.0)%
Valuation allowance
76 0.4 %113 0.7 %644 4.7 %
Other, net$(194)(1.0)%(28)(0.2)%(71)(0.5)%
Income tax expense$3,610 19.4 %$2,380 15.6 %$2,444 17.9 %
Note: Table may not sum due to rounding.
As of January 1, 2025, the Company adopted new FASB guidance related to income tax disclosures on a retrospective basis.
The effective income tax rates for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023 were 19.4%, 15.6% and 17.9%, respectively. The effective income tax rate for 2025 was higher than the effective income tax rate for 2024, primarily due to a change in the net tax effect of the Company’s Singapore operations, which includes the 15% global minimum tax (Pillar 2 Rules) that took effect in 2025. Additionally, a change in the Company’s geographic mix of earnings contributed to the higher effective income tax rate, partially offset by net discrete tax benefits.
The effective income tax rate for 2024 was lower than the effective income tax rate for 2023, primarily due to the 2023 foreign tax legislation enacted in Brazil and Notice 2023-55 (the “Notice”), released by the U.S. Department of Treasury (“Treasury”) in 2023. The foreign tax legislation and the Notice changed the treatment of foreign taxes paid under the U.S. tax regulations published in 2022, resulting in an expense in 2023 to establish a valuation allowance against the U.S. foreign tax credit carryforward deferred tax asset. The expense is partially offset by the Company’s ability to claim more U.S. foreign tax credits generated in 2022 and 2023. Additionally, a change in the Company’s geographic mix of earnings in 2024 contributed to the lower effective income tax rate compared to the prior year.
Singapore Income Tax Rate
In connection with the expansion of the Company’s operating headquarters in Singapore, the Company received in 2010 a tax incentive from the Singapore Ministry of Finance, which had been set to expire on December 31, 2025. Effective January 1, 2025, the Company received a new tax incentive from the ministry, which replaced the expiring tax incentive and continues through December 31, 2029. The tax incentive provides the Company with, among other benefits, a reduced income tax rate from the 17% Singapore statutory income tax rate. For 2025, 2024 and 2023, the impacts of the tax incentives received from the ministry resulted in a reduction of the Company’s income tax liability of $330 million, or $0.36 per diluted share, $644 million, or $0.69 per diluted share, and $571 million, or $0.60 per diluted share, respectively. The Pillar 2 Rules that took effect in 2025 in Singapore largely offsets the reduction to the Company’s effective income tax rate resulting from the tax incentive.
Income Taxes Paid
The Company paid income taxes, net of refunds, by jurisdiction for the years ended December 31, as follows:
202520242023
(in millions)
Federal
$1,359 $1,279 $1,194 
State
95 155 133 
Foreign
Belgium
668 562 516 
United Kingdom
330 592 429 
Brazil
168 333 254 
Other
400 331 220 
Total
$3,020 $3,252 $2,746 
Income taxes paid are not directly linked to the income tax expense recognized in the consolidated statements of operations, as cash payments reflect the timing of estimated payments, refunds, audit settlements and the utilization of tax attributes rather than the current period tax provision.
Deferred Income Taxes
Deferred tax assets and liabilities represent the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the carrying amounts and the tax basis of assets and liabilities. The components of deferred tax assets and liabilities at December 31 were as follows:
20252024
(in millions)
Deferred tax assets
Accrued liabilities$1,079 $939 
Compensation and benefits408 371 
Net operating losses221 468 
U.S. foreign tax credits802 736 
Property and equipment
482 432 
Intangible assets169 160 
Lease liabilities
143 134 
Other items246 236 
Less: Valuation allowance(974)(871)
Total deferred tax assets
2,576 2,605 
Deferred tax liabilities
Prepaid expenses and other accruals280 195 
Gains on equity investments111 112 
Goodwill and intangible assets718 760 
Right-of-use lease assets
124 116 
Other items83 125 
Total deferred tax liabilities
1,316 1,308 
Net deferred tax assets
$1,260 $1,297 
The changes in the Company’s valuation allowance on deferred tax assets were as follows:
Balance at December 31, 2022
Changes to Related Gross Deferred Tax Assets
Change/(Release)
Balance at December 31, 2023
Changes to Related Gross Deferred Tax Assets
Change/(Release)
Balance at December 31, 2024
Changes to Related Gross Deferred Tax Assets
Change/(Release)
Balance at December 31, 2025
(in millions)
U.S. foreign tax credit carryforward 1
$— $308 $327 $635 $101 $— $736 $66 $— $802 
Net operating and capital losses 2
114 12 (3)123 11 135 34 172 
Total$114 $320 $324 $758 $112 $1 $871 $100 $3 $974 
1The 2023 activity resulted in the establishment of the valuation allowance associated with the U.S. foreign tax credit carryforward due to foreign tax legislation enacted in Brazil and the Notice released by Treasury.
2Capital losses are included within other items in the deferred tax assets section of the components of the Deferred Income Taxes table above.
The recognition of foreign tax credits is dependent upon the realization of future foreign source income in the appropriate foreign tax credit basket in accordance with U.S. federal income tax law. The recognition of the net operating and capital losses is dependent on the timing and character of future taxable income in the applicable jurisdictions. As of December 31, 2025, the Company had a foreign tax credit carryforward and tax effected net operating loss carryforwards of $802 million and $221 million, respectively. The foreign tax credits begin to expire in 2029 and the majority of the net operating losses can be carried forward indefinitely.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending balance for the Company’s unrecognized tax benefits for the years ended December 31, was as follows:
202520242023
(in millions)
Beginning balance$304 $431 $414 
Additions:
Current year tax positions38 37 23 
Prior year tax positions 1
68 34 16 
Reductions:
Prior year tax positions 1
(93)(189)(7)
Settlements with tax authorities— — — 
Expired statute of limitations(6)(9)(15)
Ending balance$311 $304 $431 
1Includes immaterial translational impact of currency.
As of December 31, 2025, the amount of unrecognized tax benefit was $311 million. This amount, if recognized, would reduce income tax expense by $252 million.
The Company is subject to tax in the United States, Belgium, Singapore, the United Kingdom and various other foreign jurisdictions, as well as state and local jurisdictions. Uncertain tax positions are reviewed on an ongoing basis and are adjusted after considering facts and circumstances, including progress of tax audits, developments in case law and closing of statutes of limitation. Within the next twelve months, the Company believes that the resolution of certain federal, foreign and state and local examinations is reasonably possible and that a change in estimate, reducing unrecognized tax benefits, may occur.  While such a change may be significant, it is not possible to provide a range of the potential change until the examinations progress further or the related statutes of limitation expire. The Company has effectively settled its U.S. federal income tax obligations through 2014. With limited exception, the Company is no longer subject to state and local or foreign examinations by tax authorities for years before 2014.
v3.25.4
Legal and Regulatory Proceedings
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Legal and Regulatory Proceedings [Abstract]  
Legal and Regulatory Proceedings Legal and Regulatory Proceedings
Mastercard is a party to legal and regulatory proceedings with respect to a variety of matters in the ordinary course of business.  Some of these proceedings are based on complex claims involving substantial uncertainties and unascertainable damages.  Accordingly, it is not possible to determine the probability of loss or estimate damages, and therefore, Mastercard has not established liabilities for any of these proceedings, except as discussed below.  When the Company determines that a loss is both probable and reasonably estimable, Mastercard records a liability and discloses the amount of the liability if it is material. When a material loss contingency is only reasonably possible, Mastercard does not record a liability, but instead discloses the nature and the amount of the claim, and an estimate of the loss or range of loss, if such an estimate can be made. Unless otherwise stated below with respect to these matters, Mastercard cannot provide an estimate of the possible loss or range of loss based on one or more of the following reasons: (1) actual or potential plaintiffs have not claimed an amount of monetary damages or the amounts are unsupportable or exaggerated, (2) the matters are in early stages, (3) there is uncertainty as to the outcome of pending appeals or motions, (4) there are significant factual issues to be resolved, (5) the proceedings involve multiple defendants or potential defendants whose share of any potential financial responsibility has yet to be determined and/or (6) there are novel legal issues presented. Furthermore, except as identified with respect to the matters below, Mastercard does not believe that the outcome of any individual existing legal or regulatory proceeding to which it is a party will have a material adverse effect on its results of operations, financial condition and overall business.  However, an adverse judgment or other outcome or settlement with respect to any proceedings discussed below could result in fines or payments by Mastercard and/or could require Mastercard to change its business practices. In addition, an adverse outcome in a regulatory proceeding could lead to the filing of civil damage claims and possibly result in significant damage awards. Any of these events could have a material adverse effect on Mastercard’s results of operations, financial condition and overall business.
Cash paid for legal settlements for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023 was $647 million, $496 million and $929 million, respectively.
Interchange Litigation and Regulatory Proceedings
Mastercard’s interchange fees and other practices are subject to regulatory, legal review and/or challenges in a number of jurisdictions, including the proceedings described below. When taken as a whole, the resulting decisions, regulations and legislation with respect to interchange fees and acceptance practices may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s prospects for future growth and its overall results of operations and financial condition.
United States
In 2005, the first of a series of complaints were filed on behalf of merchants (the majority of the complaints were styled as class actions, although a few complaints were filed on behalf of individual merchant plaintiffs) against Mastercard International, Visa U.S.A., Inc., Visa International Service Association and a number of financial institutions. Taken together, the claims in the complaints were generally brought under both Sections 1 and 2 of the Sherman Act, which prohibit monopolization and attempts or conspiracies to monopolize a particular industry, and some of these complaints contain unfair competition law claims under state law. The complaints allege, among other things, that Mastercard, Visa, and certain financial institutions conspired to set the price of interchange fees, enacted point-of-sale acceptance rules (including the “no surcharge” rule) in violation of antitrust laws and engaged in unlawful tying and bundling of certain products and services, resulting in merchants paying excessive costs for the acceptance of Mastercard and Visa credit and debit cards. The cases were consolidated for pre-trial proceedings in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York in MDL No. 1720 (the “U.S. MDL Litigation Cases”). The plaintiffs filed a consolidated class action complaint seeking treble damages.
In 2006, the group of purported merchant class plaintiffs filed a supplemental complaint alleging that Mastercard’s initial public offering of its Class A Common Stock in May 2006 (the “IPO”) and certain purported agreements entered into between Mastercard and financial institutions in connection with the IPO: (1) violate U.S. antitrust laws and (2) constituted a fraudulent conveyance because the financial institutions allegedly attempted to release, without adequate consideration, Mastercard’s right to assess them for Mastercard’s litigation liabilities. The class plaintiffs sought treble damages and injunctive relief including, but not limited to, an order reversing and unwinding the IPO.
In 2011, Mastercard and Mastercard International entered into each of: (1) an omnibus judgment sharing and settlement sharing agreement with Visa Inc., Visa U.S.A. Inc. and Visa International Service Association and a number of financial institutions; and (2) a Mastercard settlement and judgment sharing agreement with a number of financial institutions.  The agreements provide for the apportionment of certain costs and liabilities which Mastercard, the Visa parties and the financial institutions may incur, jointly and/or severally, in the event of an adverse judgment or settlement of one or all of the U.S. MDL Litigation Cases.  Among a number of scenarios addressed by the agreements, in the event of a global settlement involving the Visa parties, the financial institutions and Mastercard, Mastercard would pay 12% of the monetary portion of the settlement. In the event of a settlement involving only
Mastercard and the financial institutions with respect to their issuance of Mastercard cards, Mastercard would pay 36% of the monetary portion of such settlement. 
In 2012, the parties entered into a definitive settlement agreement with respect to the U.S. MDL Litigation Cases (including with respect to the claims related to the IPO) and the defendants separately entered into a settlement agreement with the individual merchant plaintiffs. The settlements included cash payments that were apportioned among the defendants pursuant to the omnibus judgment sharing and settlement sharing agreement described above. Mastercard also agreed to provide class members with a short-term reduction in default credit interchange rates and to modify certain of its business practices, including its no surcharge rule. The court granted final approval of the settlement in 2013. Following an appeal by objectors and as a result of a reversal of the settlement approval by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, the case was sent back to the district court for further proceedings. The court divided the merchants’ claims into two separate classes - monetary damages claims (the “Damages Class”) and claims seeking changes to business practices (the “Rules Relief Class”). The court appointed separate counsel for each class.
In 2018, the parties to the Damages Class litigation entered into a class settlement agreement to resolve the Damages Class claims, with merchants representing slightly more than 25% of the Damages Class interchange volume choosing to opt out of the settlement. The Damages Class settlement agreement became final in 2023.
Prior to the fourth quarter of 2025, Mastercard had reached settlements with over 250 opt-out merchants. In the fourth quarter of 2025, Mastercard reached settlements or agreements in principle to settle with the vast majority of the remaining individual opt-out merchants. The opt-out merchant settlements, along with the Damages Class settlement, represent over 90% of Mastercard’s U.S. interchange volume.
Mastercard continues to litigate with two groups of remaining opt-out merchants. The first group includes seven opt-out merchants seeking aggregate single damages in excess of $1 billion with respect to their Mastercard purchase volume. A trial involving Circle K Stores is scheduled to commence in April 2026 and a trial involving the remaining six opt-out merchants is scheduled to commence in September 2026. The second group of opt-out merchants consists of Block and Intuit, each of whom are seeking damages for purchase volume in which they acted as a merchant, as well as the purchase volume associated with smaller merchants for whom they acted as payment facilitators. Discovery with respect to the second group is scheduled to be completed in the first quarter of 2026, and the exchange of expert reports and summary judgment briefing are expected to occur over the course of 2026.
In 2024, the parties to the Rules Relief Class litigation entered into a settlement agreement to resolve the Rules Relief Class claims, which was subsequently denied by the court. In November 2025, the parties reached a revised settlement agreement that, if approved by the court, would resolve the litigation. Briefing on preliminary approval of the settlement has been completed and the parties await the court’s decision.
As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, Mastercard accrued a liability of $637 million and $559 million, respectively, for the U.S. MDL Litigation Cases. The liability as of December 31, 2025 represents Mastercard’s best estimate of its probable liabilities in these matters and does not represent an estimate of a loss, if any, if the matters were litigated to a final outcome. Mastercard cannot estimate the potential liability if that were to occur.
Europe
Since 2012, a number of United Kingdom (“U.K.”) merchants filed claims or threatened litigation against Mastercard seeking damages for excessive costs paid for acceptance of Mastercard credit and debit cards arising out of alleged anti-competitive conduct with respect to, among other things, Mastercard’s cross-border interchange fees and its U.K. and Ireland domestic interchange fees (the “U.K. Merchant claimants”). In addition, Mastercard has faced similar filed or threatened litigation by merchants with respect to interchange rates in other countries in Europe (the “Pan-European Merchant claimants”). Mastercard has resolved a substantial amount of these damages claims through settlement or judgment. Following these settlements, approximately £0.3 billion (approximately $0.4 billion as of December 31, 2025) of unresolved damages claims remain. Mastercard continues to litigate with the remaining U.K. and Pan-European Merchant claimants and it has submitted statements of defense disputing liability and damages claims. A number of those matters are now progressing with motion practice and discovery. Hearings involving both liability and damages issues involving multiple merchant cases have been completed. In June 2025, the trial court in the U.K. merchant action decided against Mastercard on certain liability issues. This decision, which Mastercard is seeking to appeal, does not determine the outcome of these claims. The court must still determine additional liability and damages issues, some of which have yet to be tried.
Additional United Kingdom matters. Mastercard and Visa were served with a proposed collective action complaint in the U.K. on behalf of merchants seeking damages for commercial card transactions in both the U.K. and the European Union. In 2023, the plaintiffs filed a revised collective action application claiming damages against Mastercard in excess of £1 billion (approximately $1.3 billion as of December 31, 2025). In June 2024, the court granted the plaintiffs’ collective action application. Mastercard’s request
for permission to appeal this ruling was denied. Liability and damages issues in this claim are now being tried in the same court proceedings as the U.K. and Pan-European merchant cases.
In 2016, a proposed collective action was filed in the U.K. on behalf of U.K. consumers seeking damages for intra-European Economic Area (“EEA”) and domestic U.K. interchange fees that were allegedly passed on to consumers by merchants between 1992 and 2008. The complaint, which sought to leverage the European Commission’s 2007 decision on intra-EEA interchange fees, claimed damages in an amount that exceeded £10 billion (approximately $13 billion as of December 31, 2025). In 2021, the trial court issued a decision in which it granted class certification to the plaintiffs but narrowed the scope of the class. Since January 2023, the trial court has held hearings on various issues, including whether any causal connection existed between the levels of Mastercard’s intra-EEA interchange fees and U.K. domestic interchange fees and regarding Mastercard’s request to narrow the number of years of damages sought by the plaintiffs on statute of limitations grounds. In February 2024, the trial court ruled in Mastercard’s favor, finding no causal connection between the levels of Mastercard’s intra-EEA interchange fees and U.K. domestic interchange fees. In June 2024, the trial court ruled in Mastercard’s favor with respect to its request to dismiss five years of the plaintiffs’ damages claims on statute of limitations grounds. The plaintiffs’ request for permission to appeal this ruling was granted. In December 2024, the parties entered into a settlement agreement to resolve this matter and in May 2025, the trial court issued their written approval of the settlement. Following the trial court’s written approval, Mastercard paid the previously agreed upon settlement amount of £200 million ($263 million as of the date of payment), which was originally accrued in December 2024. The litigation funder for this claim is seeking permission to appeal (by way of judicial review) the trial court’s allocation of the settlement amount, including the allocation between the class and the funder. The funder is not seeking permission to appeal the trial court’s approval of the settlement itself.
Portugal. Mastercard has been named as a defendant in a proposed consumer collective action filed in Portugal on behalf of Portuguese consumers. The complaint, which seeks to leverage the 2019 resolution of the European Commission’s investigation of Mastercard’s central acquiring rules and interregional interchange fees, claims damages of approximately €0.4 billion (approximately $0.5 billion as of December 31, 2025) for interchange fees that were allegedly passed on to consumers by Portuguese merchants for a period of approximately 20 years. Mastercard has submitted a statement of defense that disputes both liability and damages.
Netherlands. In July 2025, Mastercard and Visa were served with a proposed collective action in the Netherlands on behalf of Dutch merchants. The complaint, which relates to interregional interchange fees covering the period from 1992 and ongoing, seeks declaratory relief and damages estimated in excess of €0.3 billion (approximately $0.4 billion as of December 31, 2025).
Australia
In 2022, the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (“ACCC”) filed a complaint targeting certain agreements entered into by Mastercard and certain Australian merchants related to Mastercard’s debit program. The ACCC alleges that by entering into such agreements, Mastercard engaged in conduct with the purpose of substantially lessening competition in the supply of debit card acceptance services. The ACCC seeks both declaratory relief and monetary fines and costs. A hearing on liability issues is scheduled for April 2026.
ATM Non-Discrimination Rule Surcharge Complaints
In 2011, a trade association of independent ATM operators and 13 independent ATM operators filed a complaint styled as a class action lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia against both Mastercard and Visa (the “ATM Operators Class Complaint”).  Plaintiffs seek to represent a class of non-bank operators of ATM terminals that operate in the United States with the discretion to determine the price of the ATM access fee for the terminals they operate. Plaintiffs allege that Mastercard and Visa have violated Section 1 of the Sherman Act by imposing rules that require ATM operators to charge non-discriminatory ATM surcharges for transactions processed over Mastercard’s and Visa’s respective networks that are not greater than the surcharge for transactions over other networks accepted at the same ATM.  Plaintiffs seek both injunctive and monetary relief equal to treble the damages they claim to have sustained as a result of the alleged violations and their costs of suit, including attorneys’ fees. 
Subsequently, multiple related complaints were filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia alleging both federal antitrust and multiple state unfair competition, consumer protection and common law claims against Mastercard and Visa on behalf of different putative classes of users of ATM services.  The claims in these actions largely mirrored the allegations made in the ATM Operators Class Complaint, although these complaints sought damages on behalf of consumers of ATM services who paid allegedly inflated ATM fees at both bank (“Bank ATM Consumer Class Complaint”) and non-bank (“Non-bank ATM Consumer Class Complaint”) ATM operators as a result of the defendants’ ATM rules.  Plaintiffs sought both injunctive and monetary relief equal to treble the damages they claimed to have sustained as a result of the alleged violations and their costs of suit, including attorneys’ fees. 
In 2023, the D.C. Circuit Court affirmed the district court’s previous order granting class certification to the plaintiffs in all three class complaints.
In 2024, Mastercard executed a settlement agreement with the class lawyers representing the plaintiffs in the Bank ATM Consumer Class Complaint, subject to court approval, and recorded an accrual of $93 million in connection with this matter. In June 2025, the court issued a decision approving the settlement.
In August 2025, Mastercard executed a settlement agreement with the class lawyers representing the plaintiffs in the Non-bank ATM Consumer Class Complaint, subject to court approval. During the second quarter of 2025, Mastercard recorded an accrual of $79 million in connection with this matter.
The litigation with respect to the ATM Operators Class Complaint is ongoing. The plaintiffs in this class complaint allege over $1 billion in single damages against all of the defendants.
U.S. Liability Shift Litigation
In 2016, a proposed U.S. merchant class action complaint was filed in federal court in California alleging that Mastercard, Visa, American Express and Discover (the “Network Defendants”), EMVCo, and a number of issuing banks (the “Bank Defendants”) engaged in a conspiracy to shift fraud liability for card present transactions from issuing banks to merchants not yet in compliance with the standards for EMV chip cards in the United States (the “EMV Liability Shift”), in violation of the Sherman Act and California law. Plaintiffs alleged damages equal to the value of all chargebacks for which class members became liable as a result of the EMV Liability Shift on October 1, 2015. The plaintiffs sought treble damages, attorney’s fees and costs and an injunction against future violations of governing law. The district court denied the Network Defendants’ motion to dismiss the complaint, but granted such a motion for EMVCo and the Bank Defendants. In 2017, the district court transferred the case to New York so that discovery could be coordinated with the U.S. MDL Litigation Cases described above. In 2020, the district court issued an order granting the plaintiffs’ request for class certification. The plaintiffs submitted expert reports that allege aggregate single damages in excess of $1 billion against the four Network Defendants. The Network Defendants submitted expert reports rebutting both liability and damages. In September 2024, the district court denied the Network Defendants’ motion for summary judgment. In September 2025, Mastercard executed a settlement agreement with the class lawyers to resolve the matter, subject to court approval. During the third quarter of 2025, Mastercard recorded an accrual of $80 million in connection with this matter.
Telephone Consumer Protection Class Action
Mastercard is a defendant in a Telephone Consumer Protection Act (“TCPA”) class action pending in Florida. The plaintiffs are individuals and businesses who allege that approximately 381,000 unsolicited faxes were sent to them advertising a Mastercard co-brand card issued by First Arkansas Bank (“FAB”). The TCPA provides for uncapped statutory damages of $500 per fax. Mastercard has asserted various defenses to the claims, and has notified FAB of an indemnity claim that it has (which FAB has disputed). In 2019, the Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) issued a declaratory ruling clarifying that the TCPA does not apply to faxes sent to online fax services that are received online via email. In 2021, the trial court granted plaintiffs’ request for class certification, but narrowed the scope of the class to stand alone fax recipients only. Mastercard’s request to appeal that decision was denied. Briefing on plaintiffs’ motion to amend the class definition and Mastercard’s cross-motion to decertify the stand alone fax recipient class was completed in April 2023 and the parties await the court’s decision.
U.S. Department of Justice Investigation
In 2023, Mastercard received a Civil Investigative Demand (“CID”) from the U.S. Department of Justice Antitrust Division (“DOJ”) seeking documents and information regarding a potential violation of Sections 1 or 2 of the Sherman Act. The CID focuses on Mastercard’s U.S. debit program and competition with other payment networks and technologies. Mastercard is cooperating with the DOJ in connection with the CID.
European Commission Investigation
In 2024, Mastercard received a formal request for information from the European Commission seeking documents and information in connection with an investigation into alleged anti-competitive behavior of certain card scheme services in the European Union/EEA. The request focuses on Mastercard’s practices regarding network fees related to acquirers. Mastercard is cooperating with the European Commission in connection with the request.
v3.25.4
Settlement and Other Risk Management
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Settlement and Other Risk Management [Abstract]  
Settlement and Other Risk Management Settlement and Other Risk Management
Mastercard’s rules guarantee the settlement of many of the payment network transactions between its customers (“settlement risk”). Settlement exposure is the settlement risk to customers under Mastercard’s rules due to the difference in timing between the payment transaction date and subsequent settlement. For those transactions the Company guarantees, the guarantee will cover the full amount of the settlement obligation to the extent the settlement obligation is not otherwise satisfied. The duration of the settlement exposure is short-term and generally limited to a few days.
Gross settlement exposure is estimated using the average daily payment volume for the three months prior to period end multiplied by the estimated number of days of exposure. The Company has global risk management policies, procedures and standards that provide a framework for managing the Company’s settlement risk and exposure. In the event of failed settlement by a customer, Mastercard may pursue one or more remedies available under the Company’s rules to recover potential losses. Historically, the Company has experienced a low level of losses from customer settlement failures.
As part of its policies, Mastercard requires certain customers that do not meet the Company’s risk standards to enter into risk mitigation arrangements, including cash collateral and/or forms of credit enhancement such as letters of credit and guarantees. This requirement is based on a review of the individual risk circumstances for each customer. Mastercard monitors its credit risk portfolio and the adequacy of its risk mitigation arrangements on a regular basis. Additionally, the Company periodically reviews its risk management methodology and standards. The amounts of estimated settlement exposure are revised as necessary.
The Company’s estimated settlement exposure was as follows at December 31:
20252024
(in millions)
Gross settlement exposure$89,599 $78,385 
Risk mitigation arrangements applied to settlement exposure
(16,722)(13,466)
Net settlement exposure
$72,877 $64,919 
Mastercard also provides guarantees to customers and certain other counterparties indemnifying them from losses stemming from failures of third parties to perform duties. This includes guarantees of Mastercard-branded travelers cheques issued, but not yet cashed. In addition, the Company enters into agreements in the ordinary course of business under which the Company agrees to indemnify third parties against damages, losses and expenses incurred in connection with legal and other proceedings arising from relationships or transactions with the Company. Certain indemnifications do not provide a stated maximum exposure. As the extent of the Company’s obligations under these agreements depends entirely upon the occurrence of future events, the Company’s potential future liability under these agreements is not determinable. Historically, payments made by the Company under these types of contractual arrangements have not been material.
v3.25.4
Derivative and Hedging Instruments
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Summary of Derivative Instruments [Abstract]  
Derivative and Hedging Instruments Derivative and Hedging Instruments
The Company monitors and manages its foreign currency and interest rate exposures as part of its overall risk management program which focuses on the unpredictability of financial markets and seeks to reduce the potentially adverse effects that the volatility of these markets may have on its operating results.  A primary objective of the Company’s risk management strategies is to reduce the financial impact that may arise from volatility in foreign currency exchange rates. The Company uses both foreign exchange derivative contracts (when the hedge costs are economically justified) and foreign currency denominated debt to manage its currency exposure. In addition, the Company may enter into interest rate derivative contracts to manage the effects of interest rate movements on the Company’s aggregate liability portfolio, including potential future debt issuances. The Company does not enter into derivatives for speculative purposes.
The Company’s derivative financial instruments are subject to both market and counterparty credit risk. Market risk is the potential for economic losses to be incurred on market risk sensitive instruments arising from adverse changes in market factors such as foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and other related variables. Counterparty credit risk is the risk of loss due to failure of the counterparty to perform its obligations in accordance with contractual terms. To mitigate counterparty credit risk, the Company enters into derivative contracts with a diversified group of selected financial institutions based upon their credit ratings and other factors. Generally, the Company does not obtain collateral related to derivatives because of the high credit ratings of the counterparties. The Company’s derivative contracts are subject to enforceable master netting arrangements, which contain various netting and setoff provisions. However, the Company has elected to present derivative assets and liabilities on a gross basis on the consolidated balance sheets.
The following table summarizes the fair value of the Company’s derivative financial instruments and the related notional amounts at December 31:
20252024
 Notional
Derivative assets
Derivative liabilities
Notional
Derivative assets
Derivative liabilities
(in millions)
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
Foreign exchange contracts in a cash flow hedge 1
$5,050 $16 $142 $3,951 $135 $
Interest rate contracts in a fair value hedge 2
1,000 — 27 1,000 — 63 
Foreign exchange contracts in a net investment hedge 1
— — — 2,511 54 — 
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Foreign exchange contracts 1
4,866 19 18 2,741 17 30 
Total
$10,916 $35 $187 $10,203 $206 $99 
1Foreign exchange derivative assets and liabilities are included within prepaid expenses and other current assets, other assets, other current liabilities and other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.
2Interest rate derivative liabilities are included within other current liabilities and other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.
Cash Flow Hedges
The Company may enter into foreign exchange derivative contracts, including forwards and options, to manage the impact of foreign currency variability on anticipated revenues and expenses, which fluctuate based on currencies other than the functional currency of the entity. The objective of these hedging activities is to reduce the effect of movement in foreign exchange rates for a portion of revenues and expenses forecasted to occur. As these contracts are designated as cash flow hedging instruments, gains and losses resulting from changes in fair value of these contracts are deferred in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and are subsequently reclassified to the consolidated statements of operations when the underlying hedged transactions impact earnings. The terms of these contracts are generally less than 18 months.
In April 2024, the Company entered into foreign exchange derivative contracts to hedge its exposure to variability in cash flows related to foreign denominated assets. Gains and losses resulting from changes in fair value of these contracts are deferred in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and are subsequently reclassified to the consolidated statements of operations when the hedged transactions impact earnings. Forward points are excluded from the effectiveness assessment and are amortized to general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of operations over the hedge period. The maximum term of these contracts was approximately 7 years.
The pre-tax gain (loss) related to the Company's foreign exchange derivative contracts designated as cash flow hedging instruments for the years ended December 31 were as follows:
Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Location of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) into Earnings
Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
202520242023202520242023
(in millions)(in millions)
Foreign exchange contracts 1
$(301)$161 $(41)Net revenue$(45)$$(29)
General and administrative 2
$(343)$177 $— 
1Includes immaterial amounts excluded from the effectiveness assessment recognized in other comprehensive income (loss).
2Includes immaterial amounts excluded from the effectiveness assessment recognized in earnings.
In addition, the Company may enter into interest rate derivative contracts to manage the effects of interest rate movements on the Company’s aggregate liability portfolio, including potential future debt issuances, and designate such derivatives as hedging instruments in a cash flow hedging relationship. Gains and losses resulting from changes in fair value of these contracts are deferred in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and are subsequently reclassified as an adjustment to interest expense over the respective terms of the hedged debt issuances. For the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023 the Company recorded losses of $7 million, $7 million and $6 million, respectively, from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) to interest expense.
The Company estimates that the pre-tax amount of the net deferred loss on cash flow hedges recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, 2025 that will be reclassified into the consolidated statements of operations within the next 12 months is not material.
Fair Value Hedges
The Company may enter into interest rate derivative contracts, including interest rate swaps, to manage the effects of interest rate movements on the fair value of the Company's fixed-rate debt and designate such derivatives as hedging instruments in a fair value hedging relationship. Changes in fair value of these contracts and changes in fair value of fixed-rate debt attributable to changes in the hedged benchmark interest rate generally offset each other and are recorded in interest expense on the consolidated statements of operations. Gains and losses related to the net settlements of interest rate swaps are also recorded in interest expense on the consolidated statements of operations. The periodic cash settlements are included in operating activities on the consolidated statements of cash flows.
The Company has an interest rate swap designated as a fair value hedge related to fixed interest rate Senior Notes. In effect, the interest rate swap synthetically converts the fixed interest rate on this debt to a variable interest rate based on the SOFR Overnight Index Swap Rate. The net impact to interest expense for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023 was not material.
Net Investment Hedges
The Company may use foreign currency denominated debt and/or foreign exchange derivative contracts to hedge a portion of its net investment in foreign subsidiaries against adverse movements in exchange rates. The effective portion of the net investment hedge is recorded as a currency translation adjustment in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Forward points are excluded from the effectiveness assessment and are amortized to general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of operations over the hedge period. The amounts recognized in earnings related to forward points for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023 were not material.
The pre-tax gain (loss) recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) related to the Company's derivative financial instruments designated as net investment hedging instruments for the years ended December 31 were as follows:
202520242023
 (in millions)
Foreign exchange contracts
$12 $43 $(98)
As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, the Company had €1.7 billion and €1.3 billion euro-denominated debt outstanding designated as hedges of a portion of its net investment in its European operations. In December 2024, the Company de-designated €400 million of the euro-denominated debt as net investment hedges to effectively manage changes in its net investment exposures in foreign subsidiaries. The euro-denominated debt was subsequently re-designated as a net investment hedge effective March 2025. For the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023 the Company recorded pre-tax net foreign currency gains (losses) of $(227) million, $104 million and $(67) million, respectively, in other comprehensive income (loss).
As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, the Company had net foreign currency gains of $126 million and $295 million, after tax, respectively, in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) associated with this hedging activity.
Non-designated Derivatives
The Company may also enter into foreign exchange derivative contracts to serve as economic hedges, such as to offset possible changes in the value of monetary assets and liabilities due to foreign exchange fluctuations, without designating these derivative contracts as hedging instruments. In addition, the Company is subject to foreign exchange risk as part of its daily settlement activities. This risk is typically limited to a few days between when a payment transaction takes place and the subsequent settlement with customers. To manage this risk, the Company may enter into short duration foreign exchange derivative contracts based upon anticipated receipts and disbursements for the respective currency position. The objective of these activities is to reduce the Company’s exposure to volatility arising from gains and losses resulting from fluctuations of foreign currencies against its
functional currencies. Gains and losses resulting from changes in fair value of these contracts are recorded net in general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of operations, along with the foreign currency gains and losses on monetary assets and liabilities.
The amount of gain recognized on the consolidated statements of operations for non-designated derivative contracts for the years ended December 31 were as follows:
202520242023
 (in millions)
Foreign exchange contracts
General and administrative$64 $32 $42 
v3.25.4
Segment Reporting
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Segment Reporting [Abstract]  
Segment Reporting Segment Reporting
Mastercard has concluded it has one reportable operating segment, “Payment Solutions.” The Payment Solutions segment derives its revenues from a wide range of payments solutions provided to customers. Revenue is generated from providing customers continuous access to Mastercard’s global payments network, as well as by providing value-added services and solutions, whether integrated and sold with the payment network or on a stand-alone basis. All of the segment’s activities are interrelated, and each activity is dependent upon and supportive of the other. Accordingly, all significant operating decisions are based upon analysis of Mastercard at the consolidated level. The accounting policies of the Payment Solutions segment are the same as those described in Note 1 (Summary of Significant Accounting Policies).
Mastercard’s Chief Executive Officer has been identified as the chief operating decision-maker (“CODM”). The CODM assesses performance for the Payment Solutions segment and decides how to allocate resources, including whether to reinvest profits into the Payment Solutions segment or into other business activities such as for acquisitions, to pay dividends or for share repurchases, based on net income as reported on the consolidated statements of operations (“Consolidated Net Income”). The CODM uses Consolidated Net Income and other measures for internal planning and forecasting purposes and in the calculation of performance-based compensation.
The following represents the selected financial information regularly reviewed by the CODM to assess performance of the Payment Solutions segment for the years ended December 31:
202520242023
(in millions)
Net revenue
$32,791 $28,167 $25,098 
Less:
Personnel
7,251 6,673 6,022 
Professional Fees
537 549 495 
Data processing and telecommunications
1,272 1,119 1,008 
Foreign exchange activity
113 65 83 
Advertising and marketing
929 815 825 
Depreciation and amortization
1,143 897 799 
Provision for litigation
504 680 539 
Investment Income
(325)(327)(274)
(Gains) losses on equity investments, net
88 29 61 
Interest expense
722 646 575 
Other (income) expense, net
(166)(20)
Income tax expense
3,610 2,380 2,444 
Other segment items 1
2,145 1,787 1,319 
Consolidated Net Income
$14,968 $12,874 $11,195 
1Includes fulfillment costs, occupancy costs, travel and meeting expenses, and other overhead expenses.
Revenue by geographic market is based on the location of the Company’s customer that issued the card, the location of the merchant acquirer where the card is being used or the location of the customer receiving services. Revenue generated in the U.S.
was approximately 29% of net revenue in 2025, 30% in 2024 and 30% in 2023. No individual country, other than the U.S., generated more than 10% of net revenue in those periods. Mastercard did not have any individual customer that generated greater than 10% of net revenue in 2025, 2024 or 2023.
The following table reflects the geographical location of the Company’s property, equipment and right-of-use assets, net, as of December 31:
202520242023
(in millions)
United States$1,168 $1,095 $1,027 
Other countries1,135 1,043 1,034 
Total$2,303 $2,138 $2,061 
v3.25.4
Insider Trading Arrangements
3 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
shares
Trading Arrangements, by Individual  
Material Terms of Trading Arrangement
Rule 10b5-1 and Non-Rule 10b5-1 Trading Arrangements
During the three months ended December 31, 2025, certain of our officers or directors adopted or terminated trading arrangements for the sale of shares of our common stock as follows.
ActionDatePlansNumber of Securities to be SoldExpiration
Rule 10b5-1 1
Non-Rule 10b5-1 2
Michael Miebach,
President and Chief Executive Officer
AdoptionNovember 3, 2025X-
Up to (i) 26,400 shares of Class A common stock underlying employee stock options, (ii) 16,000 shares of Class A common stock underlying vested but not yet settled performance stock units and (iii) 6,228 shares of Class A common stock 3
The earlier of (i) the date when all securities under the plan are exercised and sold and (ii) November 15, 2026
Ed McLaughlin,
President & Chief Technology Officer, Mastercard Technology
AdoptionNovember 4, 2025X-Up to 34,060 shares of Class A common stock underlying employee stock optionsThe earlier of (i) the date when all securities under the plan are exercised and sold and (ii) November 4, 2026
Ling Hai, President, Asia Pacific, Europe, Middle East & Africa
AdoptionDecember 10, 2025X-Up to 12,952 shares of Class A common stock underlying employee stock optionsThe earlier of (i) the date when all securities under the plan are exercised and sold and (ii) February 26, 2027
Craig Vosburg, Chief Services Officer
AdoptionDecember 10, 2025X-Up to 7,443 shares of Class A common stockThe earlier of (i) the date when all securities under the plan are sold and (ii) December 31, 2026
1Intended to satisfy the affirmative defense conditions of Rule 105b-1(c).
2Not intended to satisfy the affirmative defense conditions of Rule 10b5-1(c).
3The Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement provides for the sale of a percentage of shares to be received upon future vesting of certain outstanding equity awards, net of any shares withheld by the Company to satisfy applicable taxes. The number of shares to be withheld, and thus the exact number of shares to be sold pursuant to Mr. Miebach’s Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement, can only be determined upon the occurrence of future vesting events. For purposes of this disclosure, we have reported the maximum aggregate number of shares to be sold without subtracting any shares to be withheld upon future vesting events.
Non-Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Adopted false
Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Terminated false
Non-Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Terminated false
Michael Miebach [Member]  
Trading Arrangements, by Individual  
Name Michael Miebach
Title President and Chief Executive Officer
Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Adopted true
Adoption Date November 3, 2025
Expiration Date 11/15/2026
Arrangement Duration 377 days
Ed McLaughlin [Member]  
Trading Arrangements, by Individual  
Name Ed McLaughlin
Title President & Chief Technology Officer, Mastercard Technology
Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Adopted true
Adoption Date November 4, 2025
Expiration Date 11/04/2026
Arrangement Duration 365 days
Ling Hai [Member]  
Trading Arrangements, by Individual  
Name Ling Hai
Title President, Asia Pacific, Europe, Middle East & Africa
Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Adopted true
Adoption Date December 10, 2025
Expiration Date 02/26/2027
Arrangement Duration 443 days
Craig Vosburg [Member]  
Trading Arrangements, by Individual  
Name Craig Vosburg
Title Chief Services Officer
Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Adopted true
Adoption Date December 10, 2025
Expiration Date 12/31/2026
Arrangement Duration 386 days
Trading Arrangement, Class A Common Stock Underlying Employee Stock Options [Member] | Michael Miebach [Member]  
Trading Arrangements, by Individual  
Aggregate Available 26,400
Trading Arrangement, Class A Common Stock Underlying Employee Stock Options [Member] | Ed McLaughlin [Member]  
Trading Arrangements, by Individual  
Aggregate Available 34,060
Trading Arrangement, Class A Common Stock Underlying Employee Stock Options [Member] | Ling Hai [Member]  
Trading Arrangements, by Individual  
Aggregate Available 12,952
Trading Arrangement, Class A Common Stock Underlying Performance Stock Units [Member] | Michael Miebach [Member]  
Trading Arrangements, by Individual  
Aggregate Available 16,000
Trading Arrangement, Class A Common Stock [Member] | Michael Miebach [Member]  
Trading Arrangements, by Individual  
Aggregate Available 6,228
Trading Arrangement, Class A Common Stock [Member] | Craig Vosburg [Member]  
Trading Arrangements, by Individual  
Aggregate Available 7,443
v3.25.4
Insider Trading Policies and Procedures
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Insider Trading Policies and Procedures [Line Items]  
Insider Trading Policies and Procedures Adopted true
v3.25.4
Cybersecurity Risk Management and Strategy Disclosure
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Cybersecurity Risk Management, Strategy, and Governance [Line Items]  
Cybersecurity Risk Management Processes for Assessing, Identifying, and Managing Threats [Text Block] As a technology company in the global payments industry entrusted with the safeguarding of sensitive information (including personal information), cybersecurity risk management is an integral part of our overall enterprise risk management program. A robust program to protect our network from cyber and information security threats is critical to managing risk effectively. Our network and platforms incorporate multiple layers of protection, providing greater resiliency and security protection. Our programs are assessed by third parties and incorporate benchmarking and other data from peer companies and consultants. We engage in many efforts to mitigate information security challenges, including maintaining an information security program, an enterprise resilience program and insurance coverage, as well as regularly testing our systems to address potential vulnerabilities. We work with experts across the organization (as well as through other sources such as public-private partnerships) to monitor and respond quickly to a range of cyber and physical threats, including threats and incidents associated with the use of services provided by third-party providers. Our cybersecurity program provides (among other things) a framework for handling cybersecurity threats and incidents, which includes steps for identifying the nature of a cybersecurity threat (including whether the threat is associated with a third-party provider), assessing the severity of a cybersecurity threat (including advancing to key members of management where appropriate for determination of potential materiality) and implementing cybersecurity processes and procedures.
Cybersecurity Risk Management Processes Integrated [Flag] true
Cybersecurity Risk Management Processes Integrated [Text Block] As a technology company in the global payments industry entrusted with the safeguarding of sensitive information (including personal information), cybersecurity risk management is an integral part of our overall enterprise risk management program. A robust program to protect our network from cyber and information security threats is critical to managing risk effectively. Our network and platforms incorporate multiple layers of protection, providing greater resiliency and security protection.
Cybersecurity Risk Management Third Party Engaged [Flag] true
Cybersecurity Risk Third Party Oversight and Identification Processes [Flag] true
Cybersecurity Risk Materially Affected or Reasonably Likely to Materially Affect Registrant [Flag] false
Cybersecurity Risk Board of Directors Oversight [Text Block]
Our Board and Risk Committee have specific oversight responsibilities with respect to cybersecurity and privacy risk:
Board: Understanding the issues and risks that are central to the Company’s success, including cybersecurity matters
Cybersecurity Risk Board Committee or Subcommittee Responsible for Oversight [Text Block]
Our Board and Risk Committee have specific oversight responsibilities with respect to cybersecurity and privacy risk:
Board: Understanding the issues and risks that are central to the Company’s success, including cybersecurity matters
Risk Committee: Overseeing risks relating to our policies, procedures and strategic approach to information security (inclusive of cybersecurity), privacy and data protection, among other things
In general, the Audit Committee and Risk Committee coordinate to oversee our guidelines and policies with respect to risk assessment and risk management and our Audit Committee discusses our financial and operational risk exposures and the steps management has taken to monitor and control such exposures. In this context, the Audit Committee would be informed of a material cybersecurity incident that could have a potential impact on our financial statements.
Cybersecurity Risk Process for Informing Board Committee or Subcommittee Responsible for Oversight [Text Block] Given the importance of information security and privacy to our stakeholders, our Board receives an annual report from our CSO to discuss our program for managing information security risks, including cyber and data security risks. The Risk Committee also receives periodic briefings on data privacy from the Chief Privacy and Data Responsibility Officer. Our Risk Committee receives regular reports on our cyber readiness, our risk profile status, our cybersecurity programs, material cybersecurity risks and mitigation strategies, third-party assessments of our cybersecurity program and other cybersecurity developments. The Risk Committee Chairperson provides reports to the Board on such topics. Our Board and the Risk Committee also receive information about these topics as part of regular business, legal and regulatory updates. In addition, we engage directors as part of cybersecurity and data breach incident simulations.
Cybersecurity Risk Role of Management [Text Block]
Management responsibilities
We have a core group of senior executives who are responsible for assessing and managing risk and implementing policies, procedures and strategies pertaining to security governance, data protection and privacy. These executives include:
Chief Security Officer (CSO), who develops and oversees the programs, policies and controls we have implemented across the organization to reduce and prevent logical and physical risks, including information security and cyber risks to our people, intellectual property, data and tangible property
Chief Privacy and Data Responsibility Officer, who establishes and oversees the programs, policies, processes and controls we have implemented across the organization to ensure compliance with worldwide laws and regulations regarding how we collect, use, share, store, transfer and otherwise process data and utilize AI, while also managing our relevant engagements with regulators, policymakers and key stakeholders
Chief Data Officer, who establishes and oversees our efforts to maintain an ethical, responsible enterprise data program that adheres to our high standards for data quality, curation and governance while minimizing data risks
Data Protection Officer, who reports to the Chief Privacy and Data Responsibility Officer and, with the support of the Global Data Protection Office, ensures that we continue to adhere to the GDPR and local privacy requirements, including by handling privacy requests from individuals and regulators
In order to be appointed to one of the roles described above, we require expertise with cybersecurity or data privacy (as applicable), as demonstrated by prior work or other cybersecurity or data privacy experience or possession of a cybersecurity or data privacy degree or certification. Each individual currently serving in these roles meets the applicable expertise requirements.
How management is informed of and monitors incidents
Our management is responsible for identifying, considering and assessing material cybersecurity risks on an ongoing basis, establishing processes to ensure that such potential cybersecurity risks are monitored, implementing appropriate mitigation measures and maintaining our cybersecurity programs. Our cybersecurity programs are under the direction of our CSO (in coordination with our Chief Privacy and Data Responsibility Officer and Chief Data Officer, among others), who receives reports from our cybersecurity teams and monitors the prevention, detection, mitigation and remediation of cybersecurity incidents. Our management, including the CSO and our cybersecurity teams, follow a risk-based escalation process to notify the Risk Committee outside of the regular reporting cycle as appropriate when they identify an emerging risk or material issue.
Cybersecurity Risk Management Positions or Committees Responsible [Flag] true
Cybersecurity Risk Management Positions or Committees Responsible [Text Block] Chief Security Officer (CSO), who develops and oversees the programs, policies and controls we have implemented across the organization to reduce and prevent logical and physical risks, including information security and cyber risks to our people, intellectual property, data and tangible property
Chief Privacy and Data Responsibility Officer, who establishes and oversees the programs, policies, processes and controls we have implemented across the organization to ensure compliance with worldwide laws and regulations regarding how we collect, use, share, store, transfer and otherwise process data and utilize AI, while also managing our relevant engagements with regulators, policymakers and key stakeholders
Chief Data Officer, who establishes and oversees our efforts to maintain an ethical, responsible enterprise data program that adheres to our high standards for data quality, curation and governance while minimizing data risks
Data Protection Officer, who reports to the Chief Privacy and Data Responsibility Officer and, with the support of the Global Data Protection Office, ensures that we continue to adhere to the GDPR and local privacy requirements, including by handling privacy requests from individuals and regulators
Cybersecurity Risk Management Expertise of Management Responsible [Text Block] In order to be appointed to one of the roles described above, we require expertise with cybersecurity or data privacy (as applicable), as demonstrated by prior work or other cybersecurity or data privacy experience or possession of a cybersecurity or data privacy degree or certification. Each individual currently serving in these roles meets the applicable expertise requirements.
Cybersecurity Risk Process for Informing Management or Committees Responsible [Text Block] Our management is responsible for identifying, considering and assessing material cybersecurity risks on an ongoing basis, establishing processes to ensure that such potential cybersecurity risks are monitored, implementing appropriate mitigation measures and maintaining our cybersecurity programs. Our cybersecurity programs are under the direction of our CSO (in coordination with our Chief Privacy and Data Responsibility Officer and Chief Data Officer, among others), who receives reports from our cybersecurity teams and monitors the prevention, detection, mitigation and remediation of cybersecurity incidents. Our management, including the CSO and our cybersecurity teams, follow a risk-based escalation process to notify the Risk Committee outside of the regular reporting cycle as appropriate when they identify an emerging risk or material issue.
Cybersecurity Risk Management Positions or Committees Responsible Report to Board [Flag] true
v3.25.4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policy)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Organization
Organization
Mastercard Incorporated and its consolidated subsidiaries, including Mastercard International Incorporated (“Mastercard International” and together with Mastercard Incorporated, “Mastercard” or the “Company”), is a technology company in the global payments industry. Mastercard connects consumers, financial institutions, merchants, governments, digital partners, businesses and other organizations worldwide by enabling electronic payments and making those payment transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. The Company makes payments easier and more efficient by providing a wide range of payment solutions and services using its family of well-known and trusted brands, including its primary brand Mastercard®, as well as its Maestro® and Cirrus® brands. The Company operates a payments network that provides choice and flexibility for consumers, merchants and Mastercard customers. Through its unique and proprietary global payments network, the Company switches (authorizes, clears and settles) payment transactions. The Company has additional payments capabilities that include automated clearing house (“ACH”) transactions (both batch and real-time account-based payments). Using these capabilities, the Company offers consumer and commercial payment products, captures new payment flows and provides services and solutions. The Company’s services and solutions include, among others, security solutions, consumer acquisition and engagement services, business and market insights, digital and authentication, processing and gateway and other solutions, all of which draw on Mastercard’s principled and responsible use of secure data. The Company’s capabilities strengthen, reinforce and complement each other and are fundamentally interdependent. For the global payments network, Mastercard’s franchise model sets the standards and ground-rules that balance value and risk across (and allows for interoperability among) all stakeholders. The Company employs a multi-layered approach to help protect the global payments ecosystem in which it operates.
Mastercard is not a financial institution. The Company does not issue cards, extend credit, determine or receive revenue from interest rates or other fees charged to account holders by issuers, nor does the Company establish the rates charged by acquirers in connection with merchants’ acceptance of the Company’s products. In most cases, account holder relationships belong to, and are managed by, the Company’s financial institution customers.
Consolidation and basis of presentation
Consolidation and basis of presentation - The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Mastercard and its majority-owned and controlled entities, including any variable interest entities (“VIEs”) for which the Company is the primary beneficiary. Investments in VIEs for which the Company is not considered the primary beneficiary are not consolidated and are accounted for as marketable, equity method or measurement alternative method investments and recorded in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets.  At December 31, 2025 and 2024, there were no significant VIEs that required consolidation and the investments were not considered material to the consolidated financial statements. The Company consolidates acquisitions as of the date the Company has obtained a controlling financial interest. Intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. Certain prior period amounts within the consolidated statements of cash flows have been reclassified to conform to the 2025 presentation. The reclassification had no impact on previously reported net cash flows from operating, investing or financing activities. The Company follows accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”).
Non-controlling interests represent the equity interest not owned by the Company and are recorded for consolidated entities in which the Company owns less than 100% of the interests. Changes in a parent’s ownership interest while the parent retains its controlling interest are accounted for as equity transactions, and upon loss of control, retained ownership interests are remeasured at fair value, with any gain or loss recognized in earnings. For 2025, 2024 and 2023, net income/(losses) attributable to non-controlling interests were not material and, as a result, amounts are included on the consolidated statements of operations within other income (expense).
Use of estimates
Use of estimates - The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting periods. Future events and their effects cannot be predicted with certainty; accordingly, accounting estimates require the exercise of judgment. These financial statements were prepared using information reasonably available as of December 31, 2025 and through the date of this Report. The accounting estimates used in the preparation of the Company’s consolidated financial statements may change as new events occur, as more experience is acquired, as additional information is obtained and as the Company’s operating environment changes. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
Revenue recognition
Revenue recognition - Revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of promised services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the Company expects to be entitled to in exchange for those services.
Revenue from the Company’s payment network is primarily generated by charging fees to customers (issuers, acquirers and other market participants) for providing switching and other network-related services, as well as by charging fees to customers based primarily on the gross dollar volume of activity (GDV, which includes both domestic and cross-border volume) on the cards that carry the Company’s brands. Revenue is recognized in the period in which the related transactions and volume occur. Certain volume-based revenue is determined from information reported by customers.
Revenue from the Company’s value-added services and solutions is generated through either fixed or transaction-based fees. These services and solutions can be integrated and sold with the Company’s payment network services or can be sold on a stand-alone basis. For those contracts that include multiple performance obligations, the Company allocates revenue to each performance obligation based on its relative standalone selling price (“SSP”). The SSP is the price at which the Company would sell a promised product or service separately in similar circumstances to similar customers. Revenue from the Company’s value-added services and solutions is recognized in the period in which the related services and solutions are performed or transactions occur. For services provided to customers where delivery involves the use of a third-party, the Company recognizes revenue on a gross basis if it acts as the principal, controlling the service to the customer, or on a net basis if it acts as the agent, arranging for the service to be provided.
Mastercard has business agreements with certain customers that provide for rebates and incentives within net revenue that could be either fixed or variable. Fixed incentives typically represent payments to a customer directly related to entering into an agreement, which are generally capitalized and amortized over the life of the agreement on a straight-line basis. Variable rebates and incentives are recorded primarily when volume- and transaction-based revenues are recognized over the contractual term and are calculated based upon estimated customer performance, such as volume thresholds, and the terms of the related business agreements. Capitalized customer incentives are included in prepaid expenses and other current assets and other assets on the consolidated balance sheets. Customer incentives to be paid to customers under business agreements are included in accrued expenses and other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.
Certain of the Company’s contracts may include options to receive additional value-added services and solutions. The Company accounts for the option as a distinct performance obligation if the option provides a material right to the customer. Material rights are incremental to the standard offerings, which a customer would not have received without entering into the contract. If a material right exists in a contract, revenue allocated to the option is deferred and recognized as revenue when those future products or services are transferred or when the option expires. The value of the option is based on observable prices in the contract or on a relative SSP basis.
Contract assets include unbilled consideration typically resulting from executed value-added services and solutions performed for customers in connection with Mastercard’s payments network service arrangements. Collection for these services typically occurs over the contractual term. Contract assets are included in prepaid expenses and other current assets and other assets on the consolidated balance sheets.
The Company defers the recognition of revenue when consideration has been received prior to the satisfaction of performance obligations. As these performance obligations are satisfied, revenue is subsequently recognized. Deferred revenue primarily relates to certain value-added services and solutions. Deferred revenue is included in other current liabilities and other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.
Business combinations Business combinations - The Company accounts for business combinations under the acquisition method of accounting. The Company measures the tangible and intangible identifiable assets acquired, liabilities assumed, any non-controlling interest in the acquiree and contingent consideration at fair value as of the acquisition date. Acquisition-related costs are expensed as incurred and are included in general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of operations. Any excess purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired, including identifiable intangible assets, is recorded as goodwill. Measurement period adjustments, if any, to the preliminary estimated fair value of the intangibles assets as of the acquisition date are recorded in goodwill.
Goodwill and other intangible assets
Goodwill and other intangible assets - Indefinite-lived intangible assets consist of goodwill and customer relationships. Goodwill represents the synergies expected to arise after the acquisition date and the assembled workforce. Finite-lived intangible assets consist of capitalized software costs, intangible assets acquired in business combinations (including customer relationships and acquired technology) and other intangible assets. Intangible assets with finite useful lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives, on a straight-line basis, which range from one to twenty years. Capitalized software includes internal and external costs incurred directly related to the design, development and testing phases of each capitalized software project.
The valuation methods for goodwill and other intangible assets acquired in business combinations involve assumptions concerning comparable company multiples, discount rates, growth projections and other assumptions of future business conditions. The
Company uses various valuation techniques to determine the fair value of its intangible assets, primarily discounted cash flows analysis, relief-from-royalty and multi-period excess earnings. As the assumptions employed to measure these assets are based on management’s judgment using internal and external data, these fair value determinations are classified in Level 3 of the Valuation Hierarchy (as defined in Fair value subsection below).
Impairment of assets - Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are not amortized but tested annually for impairment at the reporting unit level in the fourth quarter, or sooner when circumstances indicate an impairment may exist. The impairment evaluation for goodwill utilizes a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more likely than not that goodwill is impaired. The qualitative factors may include, but are not limited to, macroeconomic conditions, industry and market conditions, operating environment, financial performance and other relevant events. If it is determined that it is more likely than not that goodwill is impaired, then the Company is required to perform a quantitative goodwill impairment test. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds the carrying value, goodwill is not impaired. If the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying value, goodwill is impaired and the excess of the reporting unit’s carrying value over the fair value is recognized as an impairment charge.
The impairment test for indefinite-lived intangible assets consists of a qualitative assessment to evaluate relevant events and circumstances that could affect the significant inputs used to determine the fair value of indefinite-lived intangible assets. If the qualitative assessment indicates that it is more likely than not that indefinite-lived intangible assets are impaired, then a quantitative assessment is required.  If the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds the carrying value, the asset is not impaired. If the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying value, the asset is impaired and the excess of the asset’s carrying value over the fair value is recognized as an impairment charge.
Long-lived assets, other than goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets, are tested for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that their carrying amount may not be recoverable. If the carrying value of the asset cannot be recovered from estimated future cash flows, undiscounted and without interest, the fair value of the asset is calculated using the present value of estimated net future cash flows. If the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment is recorded.
Impairment charges, if any, are recorded in general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of operations.
Litigation
Litigation - The Company is a party to certain legal and regulatory proceedings with respect to a variety of matters. The Company evaluates the likelihood of an unfavorable outcome of all legal or regulatory proceedings to which it is a party and accrues a loss contingency when the loss is probable and reasonably estimable. Loss contingencies are recorded in provision for litigation on the consolidated statements of operations. These judgments are subjective based on the status of the legal or regulatory proceedings, the merits of its defenses and consultation with in-house and external legal counsel. Legal costs are expensed as incurred and recorded in general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of operations.
Settlement and other risk management
Settlement and other risk management - Mastercard’s rules guarantee the settlement of many of the payment network transactions between its customers. Settlement exposure is the outstanding settlement risk to customers under Mastercard’s rules due to the difference in timing between the payment transaction date and subsequent settlement. For those transactions the Company guarantees, the guarantee will cover the full amount of the settlement obligation to the extent the settlement obligation is not otherwise satisfied. The duration of the settlement exposure is short-term and generally limited to a few days.
The Company also enters into agreements in the ordinary course of business under which the Company agrees to indemnify third parties against damages, losses and expenses incurred in connection with legal and other proceedings arising from relationships or transactions with the Company. As the extent of the Company’s obligations under these agreements depends entirely upon the occurrence of future events, the Company’s potential future liability under these agreements is not determinable.
The Company accounts for each of its guarantees by recording the guarantee at its fair value at the inception or modification date through earnings.
Settlement assets/obligations - The Company operates systems for settling payment transactions among participants in the payments ecosystem in which the Company operates. Settlement is generally completed on a same-day basis. In some circumstances, however, funds may not settle until subsequent business days. In addition, the Company may receive or post funds in advance of transactions related to certain payments capabilities. The Company classifies the balances arising from these various activities as settlement assets and settlement obligations.
Income taxes
Income taxes - The Company follows an asset and liability based approach in accounting for income taxes as required under GAAP. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are recorded to reflect the tax consequences on future years of temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and income tax bases of assets and liabilities. Deferred income taxes are displayed separately as noncurrent assets and liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. Valuation allowances are provided against assets which are not more likely than not to be realized. The Company recognizes all material tax positions, including uncertain tax positions in which it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained based on its technical merits and if challenged by the relevant taxing authorities. At each balance sheet date, unresolved uncertain tax positions are reassessed to
determine whether subsequent developments require a change in the amount of recognized tax benefit. The allowance for uncertain tax positions is recorded in other current and noncurrent liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. The Company records interest expense related to income tax matters as interest expense on the consolidated statements of operations. The Company includes penalties related to income tax matters in the income tax provision.
Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash
Cash and cash equivalents - Cash and cash equivalents include certain investments with daily liquidity and with an original maturity of three months or less from the date of purchase. Cash equivalents are recorded at cost, which approximates fair value.
Restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents - The Company classifies cash and cash equivalents as restricted when it is unavailable for withdrawal or use in its general operations. The Company has the following types of restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents (“restricted cash”) that are included in the reconciliation of beginning-of-period and end-of-period amounts shown on the consolidated statements of cash flows:
Restricted cash - Restricted cash includes cash segregated to meet regulatory commitments, cash within qualified legal settlement funds and cash restricted for other general business purposes, including contractually restricted deposits as well as cash balances that are restricted based on the Company’s intention with regard to usage.
Restricted security deposits held for customers - The Company requires certain customers to enter into risk mitigation arrangements, including cash collateral and/or forms of credit enhancement such as letters of credit and guarantees, for settlement of their transactions. Certain risk mitigation arrangements for settlement, such as standby letters of credit and bank guarantees, are not recorded on the consolidated balance sheets. The Company also holds cash deposits and certificates of deposit from certain customers as collateral for settlement of their transactions, which are recorded as assets on the consolidated balance sheets. These assets are fully offset by corresponding liabilities included on the consolidated balance sheets. The amount of these security deposits and the duration held are determined by the risk profile of the individual customer and the Company’s risk management practices.
Fair value
Fair value - The Company measures certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis by estimating the price that would be received upon the sale of an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. The Company also measures certain financial and non-financial assets and liabilities at fair value on a nonrecurring basis, when a change in fair value or impairment is evidenced. The Company classifies these recurring and nonrecurring fair value measurements into a three-level hierarchy (“Valuation Hierarchy”).
The Valuation Hierarchy is based upon the transparency of inputs to the valuation of an asset or liability as of the measurement date. A financial instrument’s categorization within the Valuation Hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The three levels of the Valuation Hierarchy are as follows: 
Level 1 - inputs to the valuation methodology are quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets.
Level 2 - inputs to the valuation methodology include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in inactive markets and inputs that are observable for the asset or liability.
Level 3 - inputs to the valuation methodology are unobservable and cannot be directly corroborated by observable market data.
The Company’s financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis include investment securities available-for-sale, marketable securities, derivative instruments and deferred compensation. The Company’s financial assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis include nonmarketable securities. The Company’s non-financial assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis include property, equipment and right-of-use assets, goodwill and other intangible assets and are subject to fair value adjustments in certain circumstances, such as when there is evidence of impairment.
Investment securities
Investment securities - The Company classifies investments as available-for-sale or held-to-maturity at the date of acquisition.
Available-for-sale debt securities:
Investments in debt securities that are available to meet the Company’s current operational needs are classified as current assets and the securities that are not available for current operational needs are classified as noncurrent assets on the consolidated balance sheets.
The debt securities are carried at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses, net of tax, recorded as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) on the consolidated statements of changes in equity. Net realized gains and losses on debt securities are recognized in investment income on the consolidated statements of operations. The specific identification method is used to determine realized gains and losses.
The Company evaluates its debt securities for impairment on an ongoing basis. When there has been a decline in fair value of a debt security below the amortized cost basis, the Company recognizes an impairment if: (1) it has the intent to sell the security; (2) it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell the security before recovery of the amortized cost basis;
or (3) it does not expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security. The credit loss component of the impairment is recognized as an allowance and recorded in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of operations while the non-credit related loss remains in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) until realized from a sale or subsequent impairment.
Held-to-maturity securities:
Time deposits - The Company classifies time deposits with original maturities greater than three months as held-to-maturity. Held-to-maturity securities that mature within one year are classified as current assets within investments on the consolidated balance sheets while held-to-maturity securities with maturities of greater than one year are classified as other assets. Time deposits are carried at amortized cost on the consolidated balance sheets and are intended to be held until maturity.
Equity investments - The Company holds equity securities of publicly traded and privately held companies.
Marketable equity securities - Marketable equity securities are strategic investments in publicly traded companies and are measured at fair value using quoted prices in their respective active markets with changes recorded through gains (losses) on equity investments, net on the consolidated statements of operations. Marketable equity securities that are expected to be held as part of the Company’s long-term investment strategy are classified in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets.
Nonmarketable equity investments - The Company’s nonmarketable equity investments, which are reported in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets, include strategic investments in privately held companies without readily determinable market values. The Company uses discounted cash flows and market assumptions to estimate the fair value of its nonmarketable equity investments when certain events or circumstances indicate that impairment may exist. The Company’s nonmarketable equity investments are accounted for under the measurement alternative method or equity method.
Measurement alternative method - The Company accounts for investments in common stock or in-substance common stock under the measurement alternative method of accounting when it does not exercise significant influence, generally when it holds less than 20% ownership in the entity or when the interest in a limited partnership or limited liability company is less than 5% and the Company has no significant influence over the operations of the investee. Investments in companies that Mastercard does not control, but that are not in the form of common stock or in-substance common stock, are also accounted for under the measurement alternative method of accounting. Measurement alternative investments are measured at cost, less any impairment and adjusted for changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for identical or similar investments of the same issuer. Fair value adjustments, as well as impairments, are included in gains (losses) on equity investments, net on the consolidated statements of operations.
Equity method - The Company accounts for investments in common stock or in-substance common stock under the equity method of accounting when it has the ability to exercise significant influence over the operations of the investee, generally when it holds between 20% and 50% ownership in the entity. The excess of the cost over the underlying net equity of investments accounted for under the equity method is allocated to identifiable tangible and intangible assets and liabilities based on fair values at the date of acquisition. The amortization of the excess of the cost over the underlying net equity of investments and Mastercard’s share of net earnings or losses of entities accounted for under the equity method of accounting is included in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of operations.
In addition, investments in flow-through entities such as limited partnerships and limited liability companies are also accounted for under the equity method when the Company has the ability to exercise significant influence over the operations of the investee, generally when the investment ownership percentage is equal to or greater than 5% of the outstanding ownership interest. The Company’s share of net earnings or losses for these investments are included in gains (losses) on equity investments, net on the consolidated statements of operations.
Derivative and hedging instruments
Derivative and hedging instruments - The Company’s derivative financial instruments are recorded as either assets or liabilities on the balance sheet and measured at fair value. The Company’s foreign exchange and interest rate derivative contracts are included in Level 2 of the Valuation Hierarchy as the fair value of the contracts are based on inputs that are observable based on broker quotes for the same or similar instruments. The Company does not enter into derivative instruments for trading or speculative purposes. For derivatives that are not designated as hedging instruments, realized and unrealized gains and losses from the change in fair value of the derivatives are recognized in current earnings.
The Company’s derivatives that are designated as hedging instruments are required to meet established accounting criteria. In addition, an effectiveness assessment is required to demonstrate that the derivative is expected to be highly effective at offsetting changes in fair value or cash flows of the underlying exposure both at inception of the hedging relationship and on an ongoing basis. The method of assessing hedge effectiveness and measuring hedge results is formally documented at hedge inception and assessed at least quarterly throughout the designated hedge period.
The Company may designate derivative instruments as cash flow, fair value and net investment hedges, as follows:
Cash flow hedges - Fair value adjustments to derivative instruments are recorded, net of tax, in other comprehensive income (loss) on the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. Any gains and losses deferred in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are subsequently reclassified to the corresponding line item on the consolidated statements of operations when the underlying hedged transactions impact earnings. For hedges that are no longer deemed highly effective, hedge accounting is discontinued prospectively, and any gains and losses remaining in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are reclassified to earnings when the underlying forecasted transaction occurs. Any amounts excluded from effectiveness testing of cash flow hedges are recognized in earnings over the life of the hedging instrument. If it is probable that the forecasted transaction will no longer occur, the associated gains or losses in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are reclassified to the corresponding line item on the consolidated statements of operations in current earnings.
Fair value hedges - Changes in the fair value of derivative instruments are recorded in current-period earnings, along with the gain or loss on the hedged asset or liability (“hedged item”) that is attributable to the hedged risk. All amounts recognized in earnings are recorded to the corresponding line item on the consolidated statements of operations as the earnings effect of the hedged item. Hedged items are measured on the consolidated balance sheets at their carrying amount adjusted for any changes in fair value attributable to the hedged risk (“basis adjustments”). The Company defers the amortization of any basis adjustments until the end of the derivative instrument’s term. If the hedge designation is discontinued for reasons other than derecognition of the hedged item, the remaining basis adjustments are amortized in accordance with applicable GAAP for the hedged item.
Net investment hedges - The Company has numerous investments in foreign subsidiaries. The net assets of these subsidiaries are exposed to volatility in foreign currency exchange rates. The Company may use foreign currency denominated debt and/or derivative instruments to hedge a portion of its net investment in foreign operations against adverse movements in exchange rates. The effective portion of the foreign currency gains and losses related to the hedging instruments are reported in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) on the consolidated balance sheets as a cumulative translation adjustment component of equity. Gains and losses in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are reclassified to earnings only if the Company sells or substantially liquidates its net investments in foreign subsidiaries. Amounts excluded from effectiveness testing of net investment hedges are recognized in earnings over the life of the hedging instrument. The Company evaluates the effectiveness of the net investment hedge each quarter.
Property, equipment, and right-of-use assets
Property, equipment and right-of-use assets - Property and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Depreciation of leasehold improvements and amortization of finance leases is included in depreciation and amortization expense on the consolidated statements of operations. Operating lease amortization expense is included in general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of operations.
The useful lives of the Company’s assets are as follows:
Asset CategoryEstimated Useful Life
Buildings30 years
Building equipment
10 - 15 years
Equipment and furniture and fixtures
2 - 6 years
Leasehold improvementsShorter of life of improvement or lease term
Right-of-use assetsShorter of life of the asset or lease term
Leases
The Company determines if a contract is, or contains, a lease at contract inception. The Company’s right-of-use (“ROU”) assets are primarily related to operating leases for office space, automobiles and other equipment. Leases are included in property, equipment and right-of-use assets, other current liabilities and other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.
ROU assets represent the right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent the obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. ROU assets and lease liabilities are recognized at the commencement date based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. In addition, ROU assets include initial direct costs incurred by the lessee as well as any lease payments made at or before the commencement date, and exclude lease incentives. As most of the Company's leases do not provide an implicit rate, the Company uses its incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at the commencement date in determining the present value of lease payments. The incremental borrowing rate is determined by using the rate of interest that the Company would pay to borrow on a collateralized basis an amount equal to the lease payments for a similar term and in a similar economic environment. Lease terms include options to extend or terminate the lease when it is reasonably certain that the Company will exercise that option. Leases with a term of one year or less are excluded from ROU assets and liabilities.
The Company excludes variable lease payments in measuring ROU assets and lease liabilities, other than those that depend on an index, a rate or are in-substance fixed payments. Lease and nonlease components are generally accounted for separately. When available, consideration is allocated to the separate lease and nonlease components in a lease contract on a relative standalone price basis using observable standalone prices.
Pension and other postretirement plans
Pension and other postretirement plans - The Company recognizes the funded status of its single-employer defined benefit pension plans and postretirement plans as assets or liabilities on its consolidated balance sheets and recognizes changes in the funded status in the year in which the changes occur through accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). The funded status is measured as the difference between the fair value of plan assets and the projected benefit obligation at December 31, the measurement date.
Overfunded plans, if any, are aggregated and recorded in other assets, while underfunded plans, if any, are aggregated and recorded as accrued expenses and other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.
Net periodic pension and postretirement benefit cost/(income), excluding the service cost component, is recognized in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of operations. These costs include interest cost, expected return on plan assets, amortization of prior service costs or credits and gains or losses previously recognized as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). The service cost component is recognized in general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of operations.
Defined contribution plans Defined contribution plans - The Company’s contributions to defined contribution plans are recorded as employees render service to the Company. The charge is recorded in general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of operations.
Advertising and marketing
Advertising and marketing - Expenses incurred to promote Mastercard’s brand, products and services are recognized in advertising and marketing on the consolidated statements of operations. The timing of recognition is dependent on the type of advertising or marketing expense.
Foreign currency remeasurement and translation
Foreign currency remeasurement and translation - Revenue and expense transactions in currencies other than applicable functional currency of an entity are converted to the functional currency at the exchange rate on the transaction date. Monetary assets and liabilities in a currency other than the functional currency are remeasured using current exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. Non-monetary assets and liabilities are recorded at historical exchange rates. Resulting exchange gains and losses related to remeasurement are included in general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of operations.
Where a non-U.S. currency is the functional currency, translation from that functional currency to U.S. dollars is performed for balance sheet accounts using current exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date and for revenue and expense accounts using a weighted-average exchange rate for the period. Resulting translation adjustments are reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).
Government grants Government grants - The Company receives government grants from various jurisdictions spanning multiple years, primarily to support investment initiatives in those jurisdictions. Government grants, primarily cash grants, are recognized when there is reasonable assurance that the grant will be received and compliance with the conditions specified in the agreement will be met. Within the consolidated statements of operations, the Company records operating-related grants as a reduction to expense in the same line item as the expenditure for which the grant is intended to compensate. Government grants that are not intended to compensate operating expenses are recorded in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of operations.
Treasury stock
Treasury stock - The Company records the repurchase of shares of its common stock at cost on the trade date of the transaction. These shares are considered treasury stock, which is a reduction to stockholders’ equity. Treasury stock is included in authorized and issued shares but excluded from outstanding shares. The Company also records an excise tax of 1% on the fair market value of net repurchases of shares of its common stock within treasury stock.
Share-based payments Share-based payments - The Company measures share-based compensation expense at the grant date, based on the estimated fair value of the award and uses the straight-line method of attribution, net of estimated forfeitures, for expensing awards over the requisite employee service period. The Company estimates the fair value of its non-qualified stock option awards (“Options”) using a Black-Scholes valuation model. The fair value of restricted stock units (“RSUs”) is determined and fixed on the grant date based on the Company’s stock price, adjusted for the exclusion of dividend equivalents. The Monte Carlo simulation valuation model is used to determine the grant date fair value of performance stock units (“PSUs”) granted. All share-based compensation expenses are recorded in general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of operations.
Earnings per share Earnings per share - The Company calculates basic earnings per share (“EPS”) by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the year. Diluted EPS is calculated by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the year, adjusted for the potentially dilutive effect of stock options and unvested stock units using the treasury stock method.
Accounting pronouncements not yet adopted
Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted
Disaggregation of Income Statement Expenses - In November 2024, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued accounting guidance to improve the disclosures of a public business entity’s expenses and address requests from investors for more detailed information about the types of expenses in commonly presented expense captions. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2026, and interim periods after December 15, 2027. The Company is in the process of evaluating when it will adopt this guidance.
Targeted Improvements to the Accounting for Internal-Use Software - In September 2025, the FASB issued accounting guidance to modernize the accounting for internal-use software costs by eliminating the consideration of project development stages and clarifying the criteria for capitalization. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2027, including interim periods. The Company is in the process of evaluating when it will adopt and assessing the impact of this guidance on its financial statements.
Accounting for Government Grants Received by Business Entities - In December 2025, the FASB issued accounting guidance on the recognition, measurement and presentation for government grants received by business entities. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2028, including interim periods. The Company is in the process of evaluating when it will adopt and assessing the impact of this guidance on its financial statements.
v3.25.4
Property, Plant, and Equipment (Policies)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]  
Property, equipment, and right-of-use assets
Property, equipment and right-of-use assets - Property and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Depreciation of leasehold improvements and amortization of finance leases is included in depreciation and amortization expense on the consolidated statements of operations. Operating lease amortization expense is included in general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of operations.
The useful lives of the Company’s assets are as follows:
Asset CategoryEstimated Useful Life
Buildings30 years
Building equipment
10 - 15 years
Equipment and furniture and fixtures
2 - 6 years
Leasehold improvementsShorter of life of improvement or lease term
Right-of-use assetsShorter of life of the asset or lease term
v3.25.4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Useful lives of Company's assets
Property, equipment and right-of-use assets consisted of the following at December 31:
20252024
(in millions)
Buildings, building equipment and land$744 $709 
Equipment2,347 2,118 
Furniture and fixtures105 101 
Leasehold improvements497 436 
Operating lease right-of-use assets1,366 1,167 
Property, equipment and right-of-use assets5,059 4,531 
Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization(2,756)(2,393)
Property, equipment and right-of-use assets, net$2,303 $2,138 
The useful lives of the Company’s assets are as follows:
Asset CategoryEstimated Useful Life
Buildings30 years
Building equipment
10 - 15 years
Equipment and furniture and fixtures
2 - 6 years
Leasehold improvementsShorter of life of improvement or lease term
Right-of-use assetsShorter of life of the asset or lease term
v3.25.4
Acquisitions Business Combination (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Business Combination, Asset Acquisition, Transaction between Entities under Common Control, and Joint Venture Formation [Abstract]  
Business Combination, Recognized Asset Acquired and Liability Assumed The fair values of the purchase price allocations in aggregate, as of the acquisition dates, are noted below for the businesses acquired in 2024.
2024
(in millions)
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$270 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
79 
Goodwill1,736 
Other intangible assets, net
1,361 
Other assets20 
Total assets3,466 
Liabilities:
Other current liabilities413 
Deferred income taxes 207 
Other liabilities65 
Total liabilities685 
Net assets acquired$2,781 
Business Combination, Intangible Asset, Acquired, Finite-Lived
The following table summarizes the identified intangible assets acquired in 2024:
20242024
Acquisition Date Fair ValueWeighted-Average Useful Life
(in millions)(in years)
Developed technologies$530 8.9
Customer relationships781 15.0
Other
50 9.0
Other intangible assets, net
$1,361 12.4
v3.25.4
Revenue (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]  
Disaggregation of Revenue
The Company’s disaggregated net revenue by category and geographic region were as follows for the years ended December 31:
 202520242023
(in millions)
Net revenue by category:
Payment network$19,476 $17,335 $15,824 
Value-added services and solutions13,315 10,832 9,274 
Net revenue$32,791 $28,167 $25,098 
Net revenue by geographic region:
Americas 1
$14,044 $12,375 $11,135 
Asia Pacific, Europe, Middle East and Africa
18,747 15,792 13,963 
Net revenue$32,791 $28,167 $25,098 
1Americas includes the United States, Canada and Latin America.
The following table sets forth the location of the amounts recognized on the consolidated balance sheets from contracts with customers at December 31:
20252024
(in millions)
Receivables from contracts with customers
Accounts receivable
$4,010 $3,491 
Contract assets
Prepaid expenses and other current assets189 210 
Other assets508 460 
Deferred revenue 1
Other current liabilities1,137 890 
Other liabilities424 449 
1    Revenue recognized from performance obligations satisfied in 2025 was $3.5 billion.
v3.25.4
Earnings Per Share (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]  
Schedule of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share
The components of basic and diluted EPS for common shares for each of the years ended December 31 were as follows:
 202520242023
 (in millions, except per share data)
Numerator
Net income$14,968 $12,874 $11,195 
Denominator
Basic weighted-average shares outstanding905 925 944 
Dilutive stock options and stock units
Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding 1
906 927 946 
Earnings per Share
Basic$16.54 $13.91 $11.86 
Diluted$16.52 $13.89 $11.83 
Note: Table may not sum due to rounding.
1For the years presented, the calculation of diluted EPS excluded a minimal amount of anti-dilutive share-based payment awards.
v3.25.4
Investments (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]  
Investments On the Consolidated Balance Sheet
Investments on the consolidated balance sheets consisted of the following at December 31:
20252024
(in millions)
Available-for-sale securities
$319 $292 
Held-to-maturity securities 1
13 38 
Total investments $332 $330 
1Held-to-maturity securities represent investments in time deposits that mature within one year. The cost of these securities approximates fair value.
Maturity Distribution Based on Contractual Terms of Investment Securities
The maturity distribution based on the contractual terms of the Company’s available-for-sale investment securities at December 31, 2025 was as follows:
Amortized
Cost
Fair Value
(in millions)
Due within 1 year$103 $103 
Due after 1 year through 5 years215 216 
Total$318 $319 
Schedule of Equity Investments
The following table is a summary of the activity related to the Company’s equity investments:
 Balance at December 31, 2024PurchasesSales
Changes in Fair Value 1
Other 2
Balance at December 31, 2025
(in millions)
Marketable securities $237 $— $(168)$(86)$220 $203 
Nonmarketable securities 1,370 339 (13)(2)(192)1,502 
Total equity investments $1,607 $339 $(181)$(88)$28 $1,705 
1Recorded in gains (losses) on equity investments, net on the consolidated statements of operations.
2Includes reclasses between Marketable and Nonmarketable securities as well as translational impact of currency.
Equity Securities without Readily Determinable Fair Value
The following table sets forth the components of the Company’s Nonmarketable securities at December 31:
20252024
(in millions)
Measurement alternative
$1,242 $1,140 
Equity method
260 230 
Total Nonmarketable securities$1,502 $1,370 
Carrying Value of Measurement Alternative Investments
The following table summarizes the total carrying value of the Company’s Measurement alternative investments, including cumulative unrealized gains and losses through December 31:
2025
(in millions)
Initial cost basis
$932 
Cumulative adjustments 1:
Upward adjustments522 
Downward adjustments (including impairment)(212)
Carrying amount, end of period$1,242 
1Includes immaterial translational impact of currency.
Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in the Carrying Value of Measurement Alternative Investments
The following table summarizes the unrealized gains and losses included in the carrying value of the Company’s Measurement alternative investments and Marketable securities for the years ended December 31:
202520242023
(in millions)
Measurement alternative investments:
Upward adjustments$31 $11 $
Downward adjustments (including impairment)(32)(9)(145)
Marketable securities:
Unrealized gains (losses), net(84)(34)97 
v3.25.4
Fair Value Measurements (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Financial Instruments, Financial Liabilities, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract]  
Distribution of Financial Instruments, Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
The distribution of the Company’s financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis within the Valuation Hierarchy was as follows:
 December 31, 2025December 31, 2024
 Quoted Prices
in Active
Markets
(Level 1)
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
TotalQuoted Prices
in Active
Markets
(Level 1)
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
Total
(in millions)
Assets
Investment securities:
Available-for-sale securities 1
$20 $299 $— $319 $36 $256 $— $292 
Derivative instruments 2:
Foreign exchange contracts— 35 — 35 — 206 — 206 
Marketable securities 3:
Equity securities203 — — 203 237 — — 237 
Liabilities
Derivative instruments 2:
Foreign exchange contracts$— $160 $— $160 $— $36 $— $36 
Interest rate contracts— 27 — 27 — 63 — 63 
1The Company’s U.S. government securities are classified within Level 1 of the Valuation Hierarchy as the fair values are based on unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets in active markets. The fair value of the Company’s available-for-sale non-U.S. government and agency securities, corporate and asset-backed securities are based on observable inputs such as quoted prices, benchmark yields and issuer spreads for similar assets in active markets and are therefore included in Level 2 of the Valuation Hierarchy.
2The Company’s foreign exchange and interest rate derivative asset and liability contracts measured at fair value are based on observable inputs such as broker quotes for similar derivative instruments. See Note 21 (Derivative and Hedging Instruments) for further details.
3The Company’s Marketable securities are publicly held and fair values are based on unadjusted quoted prices in their respective active markets.
v3.25.4
Prepaid Expenses and Other Assets (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Prepaid Expense and Other Assets [Abstract]  
Schedule of Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets
Prepaid expenses and other current assets consisted of the following at December 31:
20252024
(in millions)
Customer incentives
$2,531 $1,854 
Other1,212 1,138 
Total prepaid expenses and other current assets$3,743 $2,992 
Schedule of Other Assets, Noncurrent
Other assets consisted of the following at December 31:
20252024
(in millions)
Customer incentives
$7,870 $6,550 
Equity investments1,705 1,607 
Income taxes receivable1,101 1,002 
Other939 800 
Total other assets$11,615 $9,959 
v3.25.4
Property, Equipment and Right-of-Use Assets (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]  
Property, Equipment and Right-of-Use Assets
Property, equipment and right-of-use assets consisted of the following at December 31:
20252024
(in millions)
Buildings, building equipment and land$744 $709 
Equipment2,347 2,118 
Furniture and fixtures105 101 
Leasehold improvements497 436 
Operating lease right-of-use assets1,366 1,167 
Property, equipment and right-of-use assets5,059 4,531 
Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization(2,756)(2,393)
Property, equipment and right-of-use assets, net$2,303 $2,138 
The useful lives of the Company’s assets are as follows:
Asset CategoryEstimated Useful Life
Buildings30 years
Building equipment
10 - 15 years
Equipment and furniture and fixtures
2 - 6 years
Leasehold improvementsShorter of life of improvement or lease term
Right-of-use assetsShorter of life of the asset or lease term
Operating Lease ROU Assets and Operating Lease Liabilities
Operating lease ROU assets and operating lease liabilities are recorded on the consolidated balance sheets as follows at December 31:
20252024
(in millions)
Balance sheet location
Property, equipment and right-of-use assets, net$750 $681 
Other current liabilities157 133 
Other liabilities676 627 
Maturity of Operating Lease Liabilities
The following table summarizes the maturity of the Company’s operating lease liabilities at December 31, 2025 based on lease term:
(in millions)
2026$187 
2027151 
2028126 
2029101 
203087 
Thereafter306 
Total operating lease payments958 
Less: Interest(125)
Present value of operating lease liabilities$833 
v3.25.4
Goodwill (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]  
Change in Carrying Amount of Goodwill
The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended December 31 were as follows:
20252024
(in millions)
Beginning balance$9,193 $7,660 
Additions— 1,736 
Foreign currency translation367 (203)
Ending balance$9,560 $9,193 
v3.25.4
Other Intangible Assets (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract]  
Schedule of Intangible Assets
The following table sets forth net intangible assets, other than goodwill, at December 31:
20252024
Gross Carrying Amount
Accumulated Amortization
Net Carrying Amount
Gross Carrying Amount
Accumulated Amortization
Net Carrying Amount
(in millions)
Finite-lived intangible assets
Capitalized software 1
$5,415 $(2,110)$3,305 $4,797 $(1,640)$3,157 
Customer relationships2,967 (942)2,025 2,804 (720)2,084 
Other96 (44)52 99 (40)59 
Total8,478 (3,096)5,382 7,700 (2,400)5,300 
Indefinite-lived intangible assets
Customer relationships172 — 172 153 — 153 
Total$8,650 $(3,096)$5,554 $7,853 $(2,400)$5,453 
1Includes technology acquired in business combinations.
Schedule of Estimated Future Amortization Expense The following table sets forth the estimated future amortization expense on finite-lived intangible assets on the consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2025:
(in millions)
2026$801 
2027765 
2028692 
2029647 
2030569 
Thereafter1,908 
Total$5,382 
v3.25.4
Accrued Expenses (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Accrued Liabilities [Abstract]  
Accrued Expenses
Accrued expenses consisted of the following at December 31:
20252024
 (in millions)
Customer incentives
$9,958 $7,627 
Personnel costs1,716 1,681 
Income and other taxes914 454 
Other684 631 
Total accrued expenses$13,272 $10,393 
v3.25.4
Pension, Postretirement and Savings Plans (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]  
Changes in Projected Benefit Obligations, Fair Value of Plan Assets, and Funded Status of Plan The following table sets forth the components of the Pension Plans recognized on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets at December 31:
20252024
(in millions)
Fair value of plan assets$499 $454 
Projected benefit obligation452 410 
Accumulated benefit obligation450 408 
Funded Status
47 44 
v3.25.4
Debt (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Debt Instruments [Abstract]  
Schedule of Debt
Debt consisted of the following at December 31:
20252024Effective
Interest Rate
(in millions)
Senior Notes
2025 USD Notes
Floating Rate
Senior Notes due March 2028
$300 $— **
4.550 %
Senior Notes due March 2028
450 — 4.727 %
4.950 %
Senior Notes due March 2032
500 — 5.063 %
2024 USD Notes
4.100 %
Senior Notes due January 2028
750 750 4.262 %
4.350 %
Senior Notes due January 2032
1,150 1,150 4.446 %
4.550 %
Senior Notes due January 2035
1,100 1,100 4.633 %
4.875 %
Senior Notes due May 2034
1,000 1,000 5.047 %
2023 USD Notes4.875 %Senior Notes due March 2028750 750 5.003 %
4.850 %Senior Notes due March 2033750 750 4.923 %
2022 EUR Notes
1.000 %Senior Notes due February 2029882 781 1.138 %
2021 USD Notes2.000 %Senior Notes due November 2031750 750 2.112 %
1.900 %Senior Notes due March 2031600 600 1.981 %
2.950 %Senior Notes due March 2051700 700 3.013 %
2020 USD Notes3.300 %Senior Notes due March 20271,000 1,000 3.420 %
3.350 %Senior Notes due March 20301,500 1,500 3.430 %
3.850 %Senior Notes due March 20501,500 1,500 3.896 %
2019 USD Notes2.950 %Senior Notes due June 20291,000 1,000 3.030 %
3.650 %Senior Notes due June 20491,000 1,000 3.689 %
2.000 %Senior Notes due March 2025— 750 2.147 %
2018 USD Notes3.500 %Senior Notes due February 2028500 500 3.598 %
3.950 %Senior Notes due February 2048500 500 3.990 %
2016 USD Notes2.950 %Senior Notes due November 2026750 750 3.044 %
3.800 %Senior Notes due November 2046600 600 3.893 %
2015 EUR Notes
2.100 %Senior Notes due December 2027941 833 2.189 %
2.500 %Senior Notes due December 2030176 156 2.562 %
19,149 18,420 
Less: Unamortized discount and debt issuance costs(122)(131)
Less: Cumulative hedge accounting fair value adjustments 1
(27)(63)
Total debt outstanding19,000 18,226 
Less: Short-term debt 2
(749)(750)
Long-term debt$18,251 $17,476 
**The $300 million of Senior Notes due March 2028 are Floating Rate Notes that bear interest at a floating rate, reset quarterly, equal to the Compounded Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) plus 0.44%.
1The Company has an interest rate swap that is accounted for as a fair value hedge. See Note 21 (Derivative and Hedging Instruments) for additional information.
2As of December 31, 2025, the 2016 USD Notes due November 2026 were classified as short-term debt, net of unamortized discount and debt issuance costs, on the consolidated balance sheets. As of December 31, 2024, the 2019 USD Notes due March 2025 were classified as short-term debt, net of unamortized discount and debt issuance costs, on the consolidated balance sheets.
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt
Scheduled annual maturities of the principal portion of debt outstanding at December 31, 2025 are summarized below.
(in millions)
2026$750 
20271,941 
20282,750 
20291,882 
20301,676 
Thereafter10,150 
Total$19,149 
v3.25.4
Stockholders' Equity (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]  
Schedule of Classes of Capital Stock
Mastercard’s amended and restated certificate of incorporation authorizes the following classes of capital stock:
ClassPar Value Per ShareAuthorized Shares
(in millions)
Dividend and Voting Rights
A$0.00013,000 One vote per share
Dividend rights
B$0.00011,200 Non-voting
Dividend rights
Preferred$0.0001300 No shares issued or outstanding at December 31, 2025 and 2024. Dividend and voting rights are to be determined by the Board of Directors of the Company upon issuance.
Dividends Declared The total per share dividends declared during the years ended December 31 are summarized below: 
202520242023
(in millions, except per share data)
Dividends declared per share $3.15 $2.74 $2.37 
Total dividends declared$2,840 $2,526 $2,231 
Schedule of Ownership and Governance Structure
Equity ownership and voting power of the Company’s shares were allocated as follows as of December 31:
20252024
Equity OwnershipGeneral Voting PowerEquity OwnershipGeneral Voting Power
Class A stockholders
99.3 %100.0 %99.3 %100.0 %
Class B stockholders (Principal or Affiliate Customers)
0.7 %— %0.7 %— %
Note: Table may not sum due to rounding.
Schedule of Changes in Common Stock Outstanding
The following table presents the changes in the Company’s outstanding Class A and Class B common stock:
 Outstanding Shares
 Class AClass B
(in millions)
Balance at December 31, 2022948.4 7.6 
Purchases of treasury stock(23.8)— 
Share-based payments2.3 — 
Conversion of Class B to Class A common stock0.4 (0.4)
Balance at December 31, 2023927.3 7.2 
Purchases of treasury stock(23.0)— 
Share-based payments1.9 — 
Conversion of Class B to Class A common stock0.4 (0.4)
Balance at December 31, 2024906.6 6.8 
Purchases of treasury stock(21.1)— 
Share-based payments1.6 — 
Conversion of Class B to Class A common stock0.2 (0.2)
Balance at December 31, 2025887.3 6.6 
Summary of Share Repurchase Authorization The following table summarizes the Company’s share repurchase authorizations of its Class A common stock for the years ended December 31:
202520242023
(In millions, except per share data)
Board authorization$14,000 $12,000 $11,000 
Dollar-value of shares repurchased
$11,727 $10,954 $9,032 
Shares repurchased21.1 23.0 23.8 
Average price paid per share$555.78 $475.35 $379.49 
v3.25.4
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]  
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
The changes in the balances of each component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, for the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024 were as follows:
December 31, 2024Increase / (Decrease)ReclassificationsDecember 31, 2025
(in millions)
Foreign currency translation adjustments 1
$(1,558)$524 $— $(1,034)
Translation adjustments on net investment hedges 2
295 (169)— 126 
Cash flow hedges
Foreign exchange contracts 3
(51)(281)378 46 
Interest rate contracts(113)— (107)
Defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans
(6)(6)— (12)
Investment securities available-for-sale— — — — 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)$(1,433)$68 $384 $(981)
December 31, 2023Increase / (Decrease)ReclassificationsDecember 31, 2024
(in millions)
Foreign currency translation adjustments 1
$(1,119)$(439)$— $(1,558)
Translation adjustments on net investment hedges 2
181 114 — 295 
Cash flow hedges
Foreign exchange contracts 3
(17)149 (183)(51)
Interest rate contracts(118)— (113)
Defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans
(25)19 — (6)
Investment securities available-for-sale(1)— — 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)$(1,099)$(156)$(178)$(1,433)
1During 2025, the decrease in the accumulated other comprehensive loss related to foreign currency translation adjustments was driven primarily by the appreciation of the euro and British pound against the U.S. dollar. During 2024, the increase in the accumulated other comprehensive loss related to foreign currency translation adjustments was driven primarily by the depreciation of the euro, Brazilian real, and British pound against the U.S. dollar.
2During 2025, the decrease in the accumulated other comprehensive income related to the net investment hedges was driven by the appreciation of the euro against the U.S. dollar. During 2024, the increase in the accumulated other comprehensive income related to the net investment hedges was driven by the depreciation of the euro and British pound against the U.S. dollar. See Note 21 (Derivative and Hedging Instruments) for additional information.
3Certain foreign exchange derivative contracts are designated as cash flow hedging instruments. Gains and losses resulting from changes in the fair value of these contracts are deferred in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and subsequently reclassified to the consolidated statements of operations when the underlying hedged transactions impact earnings. See Note 21 (Derivative and Hedging Instruments) for additional information.
v3.25.4
Share-Based Payments (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Share-Based Payment Arrangement, Additional Disclosure [Abstract]  
Schedule of Weighted-Average Assumptions Used in the Valuation of Stock Option Awards The following table presents the weighted-average assumptions used in the valuation and the resulting weighted-average fair value per Option granted for the years ended December 31:
202520242023
Risk-free rate of return4.1 %4.2 %4.2 %
Expected term (in years)6.006.006.00
Expected volatility27.4 %28.7 %29.5 %
Expected dividend yield0.5 %0.6 %0.6 %
Weighted-average fair value per Option granted$192.87 $164.66 $123.22 
Summary of Stock Option Activity
The following table summarizes the Company’s Option activity for the year ended December 31, 2025:
OptionsWeighted-Average Exercise PriceWeighted-Average Remaining Contractual TermAggregate Intrinsic Value
(in millions)(in years)(in millions)
Outstanding at January 1, 20252.1 $273 
Granted0.2 $574 
Exercised(0.5)$196 
Forfeited— $453 
Outstanding at December 31, 20251.8 $325 5.2$432 
Exercisable at December 31, 20251.4 $274 4.2$403 
Options vested and expected to vest at December 31, 20251.8 $325 5.2$432 
Summary of Restricted Stock Unit Activity
The following table summarizes the Company’s RSU activity for the year ended December 31, 2025:
UnitsWeighted-Average Grant-Date Fair ValueAggregate Intrinsic Value
(in millions)(in millions)
Outstanding at January 1, 20252.1 $403 
Granted1.0 $566 
Converted(1.1)$385 
Forfeited(0.1)$470 
Outstanding at December 31, 20251.9 $498 $1,070 
RSUs expected to vest at December 31, 20251.8 $498 $1,032 
Summary of Performance Stock Unit Activity
The following table summarizes the Company’s PSU activity for the year ended December 31, 2025:
UnitsWeighted-Average
Grant-Date Fair Value
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
(in millions)(in millions)
Outstanding at January 1, 20250.6 $396 
Granted0.2 $608 
Converted(0.2)$335 
Other— $364 
Outstanding at December 31, 20250.6 $472 $335 
PSUs expected to vest at December 31, 20250.6 $472 $331 
Schedule of Compensation Cost for Share-based Payment Arrangements, Allocation of Share-based Compensation Costs by Plan
The following table includes additional share-based payment information for each of the years ended December 31:
202520242023
(in millions, except weighted-average fair value)
Share-based compensation expense
$597 $526 $460 
Income tax benefit recognized for equity awards128 111 99 
Income tax benefit realized related to Options exercised26 77 95 
Options
Total intrinsic value of Options exercised180 354 487 
RSUs
Weighted-average grant-date fair value of awards granted 566 472 350 
Total grant-date fair value of awards vested421 340 235 
Total intrinsic value of RSUs converted into shares of Class A common stock622 477 253 
PSUs
Weighted-average grant-date fair value of awards granted608 512 365 
Total grant-date fair value of awards vested79 99 12 
Total intrinsic value of PSUs converted into shares of Class A common stock135 122 14 
v3.25.4
Commitments (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]  
Future Minimum Payments Due Under Non-Cancelable Agreements
At December 31, 2025, the Company had the following future minimum payments due under noncancelable agreements, primarily related to sponsorships to promote the Mastercard brand and licensing arrangements. The amount accrued related to these future payments as of December 31, 2025 was not material.
(in millions)
2026$714 
2027581 
2028291 
2029131 
2030115 
Thereafter201 
Total$2,033 
v3.25.4
Income Taxes (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]  
Schedule of Domestic and Foreign Income Before Income Taxes
The domestic and foreign components of income before income taxes for the years ended December 31 were as follows:
202520242023
(in millions)
United States$6,652 $6,168 $4,506 
Foreign11,926 9,086 9,133 
Income before income taxes$18,578 $15,254 $13,639 
Components of Income Tax Provision
The total income tax provision for the years ended December 31 was comprised of the following components:
202520242023
(in millions)
Current
Federal$1,265 $1,093 $991 
State and local(198)144 127 
Foreign2,486 1,670 1,563 
Total current
3,553 2,907 2,681 
Deferred
Federal(173)(197)(180)
State and local32 (14)(18)
Foreign198 (316)(39)
Total deferred
57 (527)(237)
Income tax expense$3,610 $2,380 $2,444 
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation
A reconciliation of the effective income tax rate to the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate for the years ended December 31, was as follows:
202520242023
AmountPercentAmountPercentAmountPercent
($ in millions)
Income before income taxes$18,578 $15,254 $13,639 
Federal statutory tax3,901 21.0 %3,203 21.0 %2,864 21.0 %
Foreign tax effects
Singapore
Statutory tax rate difference between Singapore and U.S.
(161)(0.9)%(162)(1.1)%(147)(1.1)%
Singapore tax incentive
(330)(1.8)%(644)(4.2)%(571)(4.2)%
Pillar 2 Rules
233 1.3 %— — %— — %
Other foreign jurisdictions
408 2.2 %240 1.6 %374 2.7 %
Effects of cross border tax laws
Foreign-derived intangible income deduction(204)(1.1)%(195)(1.3)%(144)(1.1)%
U.S. foreign tax credits
(259)(1.4)%(224)(1.5)%73 0.5 %
Other
140 0.8 %77 0.5 %110 0.8 %
Effects of changes in tax law
— — %— — %(688)(5.0)%
Valuation allowance
76 0.4 %113 0.7 %644 4.7 %
Other, net$(194)(1.0)%(28)(0.2)%(71)(0.5)%
Income tax expense$3,610 19.4 %$2,380 15.6 %$2,444 17.9 %
Note: Table may not sum due to rounding.
As of January 1, 2025, the Company adopted new FASB guidance related to income tax disclosures on a retrospective basis.
Schedule of Income Taxes Paid he Company paid income taxes, net of refunds, by jurisdiction for the years ended December 31, as follows:
202520242023
(in millions)
Federal
$1,359 $1,279 $1,194 
State
95 155 133 
Foreign
Belgium
668 562 516 
United Kingdom
330 592 429 
Brazil
168 333 254 
Other
400 331 220 
Total
$3,020 $3,252 $2,746 
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities The components of deferred tax assets and liabilities at December 31 were as follows:
20252024
(in millions)
Deferred tax assets
Accrued liabilities$1,079 $939 
Compensation and benefits408 371 
Net operating losses221 468 
U.S. foreign tax credits802 736 
Property and equipment
482 432 
Intangible assets169 160 
Lease liabilities
143 134 
Other items246 236 
Less: Valuation allowance(974)(871)
Total deferred tax assets
2,576 2,605 
Deferred tax liabilities
Prepaid expenses and other accruals280 195 
Gains on equity investments111 112 
Goodwill and intangible assets718 760 
Right-of-use lease assets
124 116 
Other items83 125 
Total deferred tax liabilities
1,316 1,308 
Net deferred tax assets
$1,260 $1,297 
Summary of Changes to Valuation Allowance on Deferred Tax Assets
The changes in the Company’s valuation allowance on deferred tax assets were as follows:
Balance at December 31, 2022
Changes to Related Gross Deferred Tax Assets
Change/(Release)
Balance at December 31, 2023
Changes to Related Gross Deferred Tax Assets
Change/(Release)
Balance at December 31, 2024
Changes to Related Gross Deferred Tax Assets
Change/(Release)
Balance at December 31, 2025
(in millions)
U.S. foreign tax credit carryforward 1
$— $308 $327 $635 $101 $— $736 $66 $— $802 
Net operating and capital losses 2
114 12 (3)123 11 135 34 172 
Total$114 $320 $324 $758 $112 $1 $871 $100 $3 $974 
1The 2023 activity resulted in the establishment of the valuation allowance associated with the U.S. foreign tax credit carryforward due to foreign tax legislation enacted in Brazil and the Notice released by Treasury.
2Capital losses are included within other items in the deferred tax assets section of the components of the Deferred Income Taxes table above.
Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending balance for the Company’s unrecognized tax benefits for the years ended December 31, was as follows:
202520242023
(in millions)
Beginning balance$304 $431 $414 
Additions:
Current year tax positions38 37 23 
Prior year tax positions 1
68 34 16 
Reductions:
Prior year tax positions 1
(93)(189)(7)
Settlements with tax authorities— — — 
Expired statute of limitations(6)(9)(15)
Ending balance$311 $304 $431 
1Includes immaterial translational impact of currency.
v3.25.4
Settlement and Other Risk Management (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Settlement and Other Risk Management [Abstract]  
Estimated Settlement Exposure and Portion of Uncollateralized Settlement Exposure for MasterCard-Branded Transactions
The Company’s estimated settlement exposure was as follows at December 31:
20252024
(in millions)
Gross settlement exposure$89,599 $78,385 
Risk mitigation arrangements applied to settlement exposure
(16,722)(13,466)
Net settlement exposure
$72,877 $64,919 
v3.25.4
Derivative and Hedging Instruments (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Summary of Derivative Instruments [Abstract]  
Summary of Derivative Financial Instruments at Fair Value and Related Notional Amounts
The following table summarizes the fair value of the Company’s derivative financial instruments and the related notional amounts at December 31:
20252024
 Notional
Derivative assets
Derivative liabilities
Notional
Derivative assets
Derivative liabilities
(in millions)
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
Foreign exchange contracts in a cash flow hedge 1
$5,050 $16 $142 $3,951 $135 $
Interest rate contracts in a fair value hedge 2
1,000 — 27 1,000 — 63 
Foreign exchange contracts in a net investment hedge 1
— — — 2,511 54 — 
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Foreign exchange contracts 1
4,866 19 18 2,741 17 30 
Total
$10,916 $35 $187 $10,203 $206 $99 
1Foreign exchange derivative assets and liabilities are included within prepaid expenses and other current assets, other assets, other current liabilities and other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.
2Interest rate derivative liabilities are included within other current liabilities and other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.
Gain (Loss) Related to the Company's Derivative Contracts Designated as Hedging Instruments
The pre-tax gain (loss) related to the Company's foreign exchange derivative contracts designated as cash flow hedging instruments for the years ended December 31 were as follows:
Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Location of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) into Earnings
Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
202520242023202520242023
(in millions)(in millions)
Foreign exchange contracts 1
$(301)$161 $(41)Net revenue$(45)$$(29)
General and administrative 2
$(343)$177 $— 
1Includes immaterial amounts excluded from the effectiveness assessment recognized in other comprehensive income (loss).
2Includes immaterial amounts excluded from the effectiveness assessment recognized in earnings.
Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
The pre-tax gain (loss) recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) related to the Company's derivative financial instruments designated as net investment hedging instruments for the years ended December 31 were as follows:
202520242023
 (in millions)
Foreign exchange contracts
$12 $43 $(98)
Gain (Loss) Recognized for Non-Designated Derivative Contracts
The amount of gain recognized on the consolidated statements of operations for non-designated derivative contracts for the years ended December 31 were as follows:
202520242023
 (in millions)
Foreign exchange contracts
General and administrative$64 $32 $42 
v3.25.4
Segment Reporting (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Segment Reporting [Abstract]  
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment
The following represents the selected financial information regularly reviewed by the CODM to assess performance of the Payment Solutions segment for the years ended December 31:
202520242023
(in millions)
Net revenue
$32,791 $28,167 $25,098 
Less:
Personnel
7,251 6,673 6,022 
Professional Fees
537 549 495 
Data processing and telecommunications
1,272 1,119 1,008 
Foreign exchange activity
113 65 83 
Advertising and marketing
929 815 825 
Depreciation and amortization
1,143 897 799 
Provision for litigation
504 680 539 
Investment Income
(325)(327)(274)
(Gains) losses on equity investments, net
88 29 61 
Interest expense
722 646 575 
Other (income) expense, net
(166)(20)
Income tax expense
3,610 2,380 2,444 
Other segment items 1
2,145 1,787 1,319 
Consolidated Net Income
$14,968 $12,874 $11,195 
1Includes fulfillment costs, occupancy costs, travel and meeting expenses, and other overhead expenses.
Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment, Net by Geographical Location
The following table reflects the geographical location of the Company’s property, equipment and right-of-use assets, net, as of December 31:
202520242023
(in millions)
United States$1,168 $1,095 $1,027 
Other countries1,135 1,043 1,034 
Total$2,303 $2,138 $2,061 
v3.25.4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Narrative (Details)
Dec. 31, 2025
Maximum  
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]  
Historical Cost Method Ownership Percentage 20.00%
Maximum | Consolidated entities in which Company has less than 100% interest  
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]  
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent 100.00%
Other | Minimum  
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]  
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Estimated Useful Life 1 year
Other | Maximum  
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]  
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Estimated Useful Life 20 years
Partnership | Maximum  
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]  
Historical Cost Method Ownership Percentage 5.00%
v3.25.4
Acquisitions Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2023
Business Combination [Line Items]      
Goodwill $ 9,193 $ 9,560 $ 7,660
RF Ultimate Parent, Inc.      
Business Combination [Line Items]      
Total consideration $ 2,700    
Interests acquired (percent) 100.00%    
Goodwill $ 1,700    
2024 Acquisitions      
Business Combination [Line Items]      
Total consideration 2,800    
Goodwill $ 1,736    
v3.25.4
Acquisitions - Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Assets:      
Goodwill $ 9,560 $ 9,193 $ 7,660
2024 Acquisitions      
Assets:      
Cash and cash equivalents   270  
Prepaid expenses and other current assets   79  
Other intangible assets, net   1,361  
Goodwill   1,736  
Other assets   20  
Total assets   3,466  
Liabilities:      
Other current liabilities   413  
Deferred income taxes   207  
Other liabilities   65  
Total liabilities   685  
Net assets acquired   $ 2,781  
v3.25.4
Acquisitions - Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Acquired as Part of Business Combination (Details) - 2024 Acquisitions
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
USD ($)
Business Combination [Line Items]  
Other intangible assets, net $ 1,361
Weighted-Average Useful Life (in years) 12 years 4 months 24 days
Developed technologies  
Business Combination [Line Items]  
Other intangible assets, net $ 530
Weighted-Average Useful Life (in years) 8 years 10 months 24 days
Customer relationships  
Business Combination [Line Items]  
Other intangible assets, net $ 781
Weighted-Average Useful Life (in years) 15 years
Other  
Business Combination [Line Items]  
Other intangible assets, net $ 50
Weighted-Average Useful Life (in years) 9 years
v3.25.4
Revenue - Disaggregation of Revenues (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Net revenue $ 32,791 $ 28,167 $ 25,098
Americas      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Net revenue 14,044 12,375 11,135
Asia Pacific, Europe, Middle East and Africa      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Net revenue 18,747 15,792 13,963
Payment network      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Net revenue 19,476 17,335 15,824
Value-added services and solutions      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Net revenue $ 13,315 $ 10,832 $ 9,274
v3.25.4
Revenue - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]    
Revenue recognized on performance obligations $ 3,500  
Accounts Receivable    
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]    
Contract assets 4,010 $ 3,491
Prepaid expenses and other current assets    
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]    
Contract assets 189 210
Other Assets    
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]    
Contract assets 508 460
Other Current Liabilities    
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]    
Deferred revenue 1,137 890
Other liabilities    
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]    
Deferred revenue $ 424 $ 449
v3.25.4
Revenue Narrative - Remaining Performance Obligation Narrative (Details) - Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2025-01-01
$ in Billions
Dec. 31, 2025
USD ($)
Network Services  
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]  
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Period 10 years
Value-added services and solutions  
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]  
Value-added services and solutions $ 2.0
v3.25.4
Earnings Per Share Schedule of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share (Details) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, shares in Millions, $ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Numerator      
Net Income $ 14,968 $ 12,874 $ 11,195
Denominator      
Basic weighted-average shares outstanding 905 925 944
Dilutive stock options and stock units 1 2 2
Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding 906 927 946
Earnings per Share      
Basic Earnings per Share (in dollars per share) $ 16.54 $ 13.91 $ 11.86
Diluted Earnings per Share (in dollars per share) $ 16.52 $ 13.89 $ 11.83
v3.25.4
Investments - Investments (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]    
Available-for-sale securities $ 319 $ 292
Held-to-maturity securities 1 13 38
Investments $ 332 $ 330
v3.25.4
Investments - Maturity Distribution Based on Contractual Terms of Investment Securities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Available-For-Sale Amortized Cost    
Due within 1 year $ 103  
Due after 1 year through 5 years 215  
Total 318  
Available-For-Sale Fair Value    
Due within 1 year 103  
Due after 1 year through 5 years 216  
Total $ 319 $ 292
v3.25.4
Investments - Equity Investments (Details)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
USD ($)
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]  
Equity securities, beginning balance $ 1,607
Equity securities, purchases 339
Equity securities, sales (181)
Equity securities, changes in fair value (88)
Equity securities, other 28
Equity securities, ending balance 1,705
Marketable Securities  
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]  
Equity securities, beginning balance 237
Equity securities, purchases 0
Equity securities, sales (168)
Equity securities, changes in fair value (86)
Equity securities, other 220
Equity securities, ending balance 203
Nonmarketable Securities  
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]  
Equity securities, beginning balance 1,370
Equity securities, purchases 339
Equity securities, sales (13)
Equity securities, changes in fair value (2)
Equity securities, other (192)
Equity securities, ending balance $ 1,502
v3.25.4
Investments - Equity Securities without Readily Determinable Fair Value (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]    
Measurement alternative $ 1,242 $ 1,140
Equity method 260 230
Total Nonmarketable securities $ 1,502 $ 1,370
v3.25.4
Investments - Carrying Value of Measurement Alternative Investments (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]    
Initial cost basis $ 932  
Upward adjustments 522  
Downward adjustments (including impairment) (212)  
Measurement alternative $ 1,242 $ 1,140
v3.25.4
Investments - Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in the Carrying Value of Measurement Alternative Investments and Marketable Securities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]      
Upward adjustments $ 31 $ 11 $ 7
Downward adjustments (including impairment) (32) (9) (145)
Marketable Securities, Unrealized Gain (Loss) $ (84) $ (34) $ 97
v3.25.4
Fair Value Measurements - Distribution of Financial Instruments, Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities $ 319 $ 292
Equity securities    
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]    
Equity securities 203 237
Foreign exchange contracts    
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]    
Derivative assets 35 206
Derivative liabilities 160 36
Interest rate contracts    
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]    
Derivative liabilities 27 63
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1    
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 20 36
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Equity securities    
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]    
Equity securities 203 237
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Foreign exchange contracts    
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]    
Derivative assets 0 0
Derivative liabilities 0 0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Interest rate contracts    
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]    
Derivative liabilities 0 0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2    
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 299 256
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Equity securities    
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]    
Equity securities 0 0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Foreign exchange contracts    
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]    
Derivative assets 35 206
Derivative liabilities 160 36
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Interest rate contracts    
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]    
Derivative liabilities 27 63
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3    
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 0 0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Equity securities    
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]    
Equity securities 0 0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Foreign exchange contracts    
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]    
Derivative assets 0 0
Derivative liabilities 0 0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Interest rate contracts    
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]    
Derivative liabilities $ 0 $ 0
v3.25.4
Fair Value Measurements - Narrative Fair Value (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Total debt outstanding $ 19,000 $ 18,226
Fair Value    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Long-term debt, fair value $ 18,000 $ 16,800
v3.25.4
Prepaid Expenses and Other Assets Schedule of Prepaid Expenses (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Prepaid Expense and Other Assets [Abstract]    
Customer incentives $ 2,531 $ 1,854
Other 1,212 1,138
Total prepaid expenses and other current assets $ 3,743 $ 2,992
v3.25.4
Prepaid Expenses and Other Assets Schedule of Other Assets (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Prepaid Expense and Other Assets [Abstract]    
Customer incentives $ 7,870 $ 6,550
Equity investments 1,705 1,607
Income taxes receivable 1,101 1,002
Other 939 800
Total other assets $ 11,615 $ 9,959
v3.25.4
Property, Equipment, and Right-of-Use Assets (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Property, Equipment and Right-of-Use Assets [Line Items]    
Property, equipment and right-of-use assets $ 5,059 $ 4,531
Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization (2,756) (2,393)
Property, equipment and right-of-use assets, net 2,303 2,138
Buildings, building equipment and land    
Property, Equipment and Right-of-Use Assets [Line Items]    
Property, equipment and right-of-use assets 744 709
Equipment    
Property, Equipment and Right-of-Use Assets [Line Items]    
Property, equipment and right-of-use assets 2,347 2,118
Furniture and fixtures    
Property, Equipment and Right-of-Use Assets [Line Items]    
Property, equipment and right-of-use assets 105 101
Leasehold improvements    
Property, Equipment and Right-of-Use Assets [Line Items]    
Property, equipment and right-of-use assets 497 436
Operating lease right-of-use assets    
Property, Equipment and Right-of-Use Assets [Line Items]    
Property, equipment and right-of-use assets $ 1,366 $ 1,167
v3.25.4
Property, Equipment and Right-of-Use Assets - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]      
Depreciation expense including amortization for capital leases $ 544 $ 519 $ 482
Operating lease amortization expense $ 161 $ 145 $ 141
Weighted-average remaining lease term of operating lease 7 years 2 months 12 days 8 years  
Weighted-average discount rate for operating leases 3.60% 3.50%  
v3.25.4
Property, Equipment and Right-of-Use Assets - Operating Right-of-Use Assets and Operating Lease Liabilities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]    
Property, equipment and right-of-use assets, net $ 750 $ 681
Other current liabilities 157 133
Other liabilities $ 676 $ 627
Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible List] Property, Plant, and Equipment and Finance Lease Right-of-Use Asset, after Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization Property, Plant, and Equipment and Finance Lease Right-of-Use Asset, after Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization
Operating Lease, Liability, Current, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible List] Other Liabilities, Current Other Liabilities, Current
Operating Lease, Liability, Noncurrent, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible List] Other liabilities Other liabilities
v3.25.4
Property, Equipment and Right-of-Use Assets - Estimated Useful Lives (Details)
Dec. 31, 2025
Buildings  
Property, Equipment and Right-of-Use Assets [Line Items]  
Estimated Useful Life 30 years
Building equipment | Minimum  
Property, Equipment and Right-of-Use Assets [Line Items]  
Estimated Useful Life 10 years
Building equipment | Maximum  
Property, Equipment and Right-of-Use Assets [Line Items]  
Estimated Useful Life 15 years
Equipment and furniture and fixtures | Minimum  
Property, Equipment and Right-of-Use Assets [Line Items]  
Estimated Useful Life 2 years
Equipment and furniture and fixtures | Maximum  
Property, Equipment and Right-of-Use Assets [Line Items]  
Estimated Useful Life 6 years
v3.25.4
Property, Equipment and Right-of-Use Assets - Maturities of Operating Lease Liabilities (Details)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2025
USD ($)
Operating Leases after Adoption of ASC Topic 842:  
2026 $ 187
2027 151
2028 126
2029 101
2030 87
Thereafter 306
Total operating lease payments 958
Less: Interest (125)
Present value of operating lease liabilities $ 833
v3.25.4
Change in Carrying Amount of Goodwill (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Goodwill [Roll Forward]    
Beginning balance $ 9,193 $ 7,660
Additions 0 1,736
Foreign currency translation 367 (203)
Ending balance $ 9,560 $ 9,193
v3.25.4
Other Intangible Assets (Schedule of Intangible Assets) (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Gross Carrying Amount $ 8,478 $ 7,700
Accumulated Amortization (3,096) (2,400)
Net Carrying Amount 5,382 5,300
Intangible Assets, Gross (Excluding Goodwill) 8,650 7,853
Accumulated Amortization (3,096) (2,400)
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill), Total 5,554 5,453
Capitalized software    
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Gross Carrying Amount 5,415 4,797
Accumulated Amortization (2,110) (1,640)
Net Carrying Amount 3,305 3,157
Customer relationships    
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Gross Carrying Amount 2,967 2,804
Accumulated Amortization (942) (720)
Net Carrying Amount 2,025 2,084
Customer relationships 172 153
Other    
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Gross Carrying Amount 96 99
Accumulated Amortization (44) (40)
Net Carrying Amount $ 52 $ 59
v3.25.4
Other Intangible Assets (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract]      
Amortization expense on intangible assets $ 760 $ 523 $ 457
v3.25.4
Other Intangible Assets (Schedule of Estimated Future Amortization Expense) (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract]    
2026 $ 801  
2027 765  
2028 692  
2029 647  
2030 569  
Thereafter 1,908  
Net Carrying Amount $ 5,382 $ 5,300
v3.25.4
Accrued Expenses (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Accrued Liabilities [Abstract]    
Customer incentives $ 9,958 $ 7,627
Personnel costs 1,716 1,681
Income and other taxes 914 454
Other 684 631
Total accrued expenses $ 13,272 $ 10,393
v3.25.4
Accrued Expenses and (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Accrued Liabilities [Abstract]    
Accrued customer and merchant incentives, noncurrent $ 3,041 $ 2,820
v3.25.4
Pension, Postretirement and Savings Plans - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total expense related to defined contribution plans $ 302 $ 287 $ 253
Other Postretirement Benefits Plan      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Other comprehensive income (loss), defined benefit plan, after reclassification adjustment, before tax 3 10  
Pension Plan      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Other comprehensive income (loss), defined benefit plan, after reclassification adjustment, before tax $ (15) $ (14)  
v3.25.4
Pension, Postretirement and Savings Plans (Details) - Pension Plan - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]    
Fair value of plan assets $ 499 $ 454
Projected benefit obligation 452 410
Accumulated benefit obligation 450 408
Funded Status $ 47 $ 44
v3.25.4
Debt - Schedule of Long-term Debt (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Feb. 28, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Long-term debt, gross $ 19,149   $ 18,420
Less: Unamortized discount and debt issuance costs (122)   (131)
Less: Cumulative hedge accounting fair value adjustments (27)   (63)
Total debt outstanding 19,000   18,226
Less: Short-term debt (749)   (750)
Long-term debt 18,251   17,476
Floating Rate March 2028 Notes | Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Long-term debt, gross $ 300   0
Basis spread on variable rate 0.44%    
4.550% March 2028 Notes | Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt instrument stated rate (percent)   4.55%  
Long-term debt, gross $ 450   0
Effective interest rate, percent 4.727%    
March 2032 Notes | Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt instrument stated rate (percent)   4.95%  
Long-term debt, gross $ 500   0
Effective interest rate, percent 5.063%    
January 2028 Notes | Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt instrument stated rate (percent) 4.10%    
Long-term debt, gross $ 750   750
Effective interest rate, percent 4.262%    
January 2032 Notes | Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt instrument stated rate (percent) 4.35%    
Long-term debt, gross $ 1,150   1,150
Effective interest rate, percent 4.446%    
January 2035 Notes | Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt instrument stated rate (percent) 4.55%    
Long-term debt, gross $ 1,100   1,100
Effective interest rate, percent 4.633%    
May 2034 Notes | Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt instrument stated rate (percent) 4.875%    
Long-term debt, gross $ 1,000   1,000
Effective interest rate, percent 5.047%    
4.875% March 2028 Notes | Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt instrument stated rate (percent) 4.875%    
Long-term debt, gross $ 750   750
Effective interest rate, percent 5.003%    
March 2033 Notes | Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt instrument stated rate (percent) 4.85%    
Long-term debt, gross $ 750   750
Effective interest rate, percent 4.923%    
February 2029 Notes | Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt instrument stated rate (percent) 1.00%    
Long-term debt, gross $ 882   781
Effective interest rate, percent 1.138%    
November 2031 Notes | Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt instrument stated rate (percent) 2.00%    
Long-term debt, gross $ 750   750
Effective interest rate, percent 2.112%    
March 2031 Notes | Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt instrument stated rate (percent) 1.90%    
Long-term debt, gross $ 600   600
Effective interest rate, percent 1.981%    
March 2051 Notes | Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt instrument stated rate (percent) 2.95%    
Long-term debt, gross $ 700   700
Effective interest rate, percent 3.013%    
2027 Notes | Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt instrument stated rate (percent) 3.30%    
Long-term debt, gross $ 1,000   1,000
Effective interest rate, percent 3.42%    
2030 Notes | Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt instrument stated rate (percent) 3.35%    
Long-term debt, gross $ 1,500   1,500
Effective interest rate, percent 3.43%    
March 2050 Notes | Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt instrument stated rate (percent) 3.85%    
Long-term debt, gross $ 1,500   1,500
Effective interest rate, percent 3.896%    
2029 Notes | Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt instrument stated rate (percent) 2.95%    
Long-term debt, gross $ 1,000   1,000
Effective interest rate, percent 3.03%    
2049 Notes | Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt instrument stated rate (percent) 3.65%    
Long-term debt, gross $ 1,000   1,000
Effective interest rate, percent 3.689%    
2025 Notes | Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt instrument stated rate (percent) 2.00%    
Long-term debt, gross $ 0   750
Effective interest rate, percent 2.147%    
2028 Notes | Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt instrument stated rate (percent) 3.50%    
Long-term debt, gross $ 500   500
Effective interest rate, percent 3.598%    
2048 Notes | Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt instrument stated rate (percent) 3.95%    
Long-term debt, gross $ 500   500
Effective interest rate, percent 3.99%    
2026 Notes | Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt instrument stated rate (percent) 2.95%    
Long-term debt, gross $ 750   750
Effective interest rate, percent 3.044%    
2046 Notes | Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt instrument stated rate (percent) 3.80%    
Long-term debt, gross $ 600   600
Effective interest rate, percent 3.893%    
Senior Notes due December 2027 | Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt instrument stated rate (percent) 2.10%    
Long-term debt, gross $ 941   833
Effective interest rate, percent 2.189%    
Senior Notes due December 2030 | Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt instrument stated rate (percent) 2.50%    
Long-term debt, gross $ 176   $ 156
Effective interest rate, percent 2.562%    
v3.25.4
Debt - Narrative (Details)
₨ in Millions, $ in Millions
1 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Apr. 30, 2023
USD ($)
Apr. 30, 2023
INR (₨)
Mar. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Jul. 31, 2022
INR (₨)
Dec. 31, 2025
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2024
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Feb. 28, 2025
USD ($)
Sep. 30, 2024
USD ($)
May 31, 2024
USD ($)
Jul. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Jul. 31, 2023
INR (₨)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                        
Interest paid on debt         $ 680 $ 571 $ 477          
Long-term debt, gross         19,149 18,420            
Commercial paper program         8,000              
Revolving Credit Facility                        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                        
Credit facility         8,000              
Floating Rate March 2028 Notes | Senior Notes                        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                        
Long-term debt, gross         $ 300 0            
Debt issued               $ 300        
Basis spread on variable rate         0.44%              
4.550% March 2028 Notes | Senior Notes                        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                        
Long-term debt, gross         $ 450 0            
Debt instrument stated rate (percent)               4.55%        
Debt issued               $ 450        
March 2032 Notes | Senior Notes                        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                        
Long-term debt, gross         500 0            
Debt instrument stated rate (percent)               4.95%        
Debt issued               $ 500        
Senior Notes Issued 2025 | Senior Notes                        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                        
Proceeds from issuance of debt         $ 1,242              
Notes issued 2024, USD | Senior Notes                        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                        
Proceeds from issuance of debt           3,960            
Debt issued           $ 4,000            
Senior Notes due May 2034 | Senior Notes                        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                        
Debt issued                   $ 1,000    
Senior Notes due January 2028 | Senior Notes                        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                        
Debt issued                 $ 750      
Senior Notes due January 2032 | Senior Notes                        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                        
Debt issued                 1,150      
Senior Notes due January 2035 | Senior Notes                        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                        
Debt issued                 $ 1,100      
4.875% Senior Notes due March 2028 | Senior Notes                        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                        
Debt issued     $ 750                  
Senior Notes due March 2033 | Senior Notes                        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                        
Debt issued     750                  
Notes Issued 2023, USD | Senior Notes                        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                        
Proceeds from issuance of debt     $ 1,489                  
INR Term Loan                        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                        
Proceeds from issuance of debt | ₨       ₨ 22,600                
April 2023 INR Term Loan                        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                        
Proceeds from issuance of debt $ 61 ₨ 4,960                    
Short-term debt | ₨   ₨ 4,970                    
2023 INR Term Loan                        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]                        
Short-term debt                     $ 342 ₨ 28,100
v3.25.4
Debt - Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Debt Instruments [Abstract]    
2026 $ 750  
2027 1,941  
2028 2,750  
2029 1,882  
2030 1,676  
Thereafter 10,150  
Total $ 19,149 $ 18,420
v3.25.4
Stockholders' Equity (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
1 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Feb. 06, 2026
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Class of Stock [Line Items]        
Remaining authorization   $ 17,500    
Subsequent Event        
Class of Stock [Line Items]        
Remaining authorization $ 16,300      
Dollar-value of shares repurchased $ 1,100      
Class A Common Stock        
Class of Stock [Line Items]        
Dollar-value of shares repurchased   $ 11,727 $ 10,954 $ 9,032
v3.25.4
Stockholders' Equity (Schedule of Classes of Capital Stock) (Details) - $ / shares
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Public Investors (Class A Stockholders)    
Class of Stock [Line Items]    
Equity ownership, percentage 99.30% 99.30%
General voting power, percentage 100.00% 100.00%
Principal or Affiliate Members (Class B Stockholders)    
Class of Stock [Line Items]    
Equity ownership, percentage 0.70% 0.70%
General voting power, percentage 0.00% 0.00%
Class A Common Stock    
Class of Stock [Line Items]    
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) $ 0.0001 $ 0.0001
Common stock, authorized shares (in shares) 3,000,000,000 3,000,000,000
Class B Common Stock    
Class of Stock [Line Items]    
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) $ 0.0001 $ 0.0001
Common stock, authorized shares (in shares) 1,200,000,000 1,200,000,000
Preferred Stock    
Class of Stock [Line Items]    
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share) $ 0.0001 $ 0.0001
Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares) 300,000,000 300,000,000
v3.25.4
Stockholders' Equity - Dividends Declared (Details) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, $ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dividends Payable [Line Items]      
Cash dividends declared on Class A and Class B common stock, per share $ 3.15 $ 2.74 $ 2.37
Annual dividends declared $ 2,840 $ 2,526 $ 2,231
v3.25.4
Stockholders' Equity - Statement of Changes in Common Shares Outstanding (Details) - shares
shares in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Class A Common Stock      
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]      
Purchases of treasury stock (21.1) (23.0) (23.8)
  Common Stock | Class A Common Stock      
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]      
Balance 906.6 927.3 948.4
Purchases of treasury stock (21.1) (23.0) (23.8)
Share-based payments 1.6 1.9 2.3
Conversion of Class B to Class A common stock 0.2 0.4 0.4
Balance 887.3 906.6 927.3
  Common Stock | Class B Common Stock      
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]      
Balance 6.8 7.2 7.6
Purchases of treasury stock 0.0 0.0 0.0
Share-based payments 0.0 0.0 0.0
Conversion of Class B to Class A common stock (0.2) (0.4) (0.4)
Balance 6.6 6.8 7.2
v3.25.4
Stockholders' Equity - Summary of Share Repurchase Authorization (Details) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, shares in Millions
1 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Feb. 06, 2026
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]        
Remaining authorization   $ 17,500,000,000    
Subsequent Event        
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]        
Dollar-value of shares repurchased $ 1,100,000,000      
Remaining authorization $ 16,300,000,000      
Class A Common Stock        
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]        
Board authorization   14,000,000,000 $ 12,000,000,000 $ 11,000,000,000
Dollar-value of shares repurchased   $ 11,727,000,000 $ 10,954,000,000 $ 9,032,000,000
Shares repurchased (in shares)   21.1 23.0 23.8
Average price per share (in dollars per share)   $ 555.78 $ 475.35 $ 379.49
v3.25.4
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]    
Beginning balance $ 6,515 $ 6,975
Increase / (Decrease) 68 (156)
Reclassifications 384 (178)
Ending balance 7,746 6,515
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments    
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]    
Beginning balance (1,558) (1,119)
Increase / (Decrease) 524 (439)
Reclassifications 0 0
Ending balance (1,034) (1,558)
Translation Adjustments on Net Investment Hedge    
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]    
Beginning balance 295 181
Increase / (Decrease) (169) 114
Reclassifications 0 0
Ending balance 126 295
Cash Flow Hedges | Foreign exchange contracts    
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]    
Beginning balance (51) (17)
Increase / (Decrease) (281) 149
Reclassifications 378 (183)
Ending balance 46 (51)
Cash Flow Hedges | Interest rate contracts    
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]    
Beginning balance (113) (118)
Increase / (Decrease) 0 0
Reclassifications 6 5
Ending balance (107) (113)
Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans    
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]    
Beginning balance (6) (25)
Increase / (Decrease) (6) 19
Reclassifications 0 0
Ending balance (12) (6)
Investment Securities Available-for-Sale    
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]    
Beginning balance 0 (1)
Increase / (Decrease) 0 1
Reclassifications 0 0
Ending balance 0 0
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)    
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]    
Beginning balance (1,433) (1,099)
Ending balance $ (981) $ (1,433)
v3.25.4
Share-Based Payments - Narrative (Details)
shares in Millions, $ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
USD ($)
shares
Long-Term Incentive Plan | Class A Common Stock  
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]  
Shares reserve for future issuance | shares 116
Stock Option  
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]  
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period 10 years
Unrecognized compensation cost $ 14
Period over which unrecognized cost will be recognized, in years 1 year 8 months 12 days
Stock Option | Minimum vesting from date of retirement eligibility  
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]  
Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period 7 months
Stock Options Granted On or After March 1, 2022 | Vest Ratably Over Three Years  
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]  
Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period 3 years
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) Granted On or After March 1, 2022 | Vest Ratably Over Three Years  
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]  
Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period 3 years
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)  
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]  
Unrecognized compensation cost $ 465
Period over which unrecognized cost will be recognized, in years 1 year 9 months 18 days
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) | Vesting period for retirement or disability  
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]  
Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period 7 months
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) | Minimum vesting from date of retirement eligibility  
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]  
Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period 7 months
Performance Shares  
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]  
Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period 7 months
Unrecognized compensation cost $ 31
Period over which unrecognized cost will be recognized, in years 1 year 7 months 6 days
Performance Shares | Vest Ratably Over Three Years  
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]  
Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period 3 years
v3.25.4
Share-Based Payments (Schedule of Weighted-Average Assumptions Used in the Valuation of Awards) (Details) - $ / shares
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Share-Based Payment Arrangement, Additional Disclosure [Abstract]      
Risk-free rate of return 4.10% 4.20% 4.20%
Expected term (in years) 6 years 6 years 6 years
Expected volatility 27.40% 28.70% 29.50%
Expected dividend yield 0.50% 0.60% 0.60%
Weighted-average fair value per option granted $ 192.87 $ 164.66 $ 123.22
v3.25.4
Share-Based Payments (Summary of Stock Option Activity) (Details)
$ / shares in Units, shares in Millions, $ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
USD ($)
$ / shares
shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]  
Options outstanding at beginning of period | shares 2.1
Options granted | shares 0.2
Options exercised | shares (0.5)
Options forfeited | shares 0.0
Options outstanding at end of period | shares 1.8
Options exercisable at the end of the period | shares 1.4
Options vested and expected to vest at the end of the period | shares 1.8
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract]  
Weighted-average exercise price, options outstanding at the beginning of the period | $ / shares $ 273
Weighted-average exercise price, options granted | $ / shares 574
Weighted-average exercise price, options exercised | $ / shares 196
Weighted-average exercise price, options forfeited | $ / shares 453
Weighted-average exercise price, options outstanding at the end of the period | $ / shares 325
Weighted-average exercise price, options exercisable at the end of the period | $ / shares 274
Weighted-average exercise price, options vested and expected to vest at he end of the period | $ / shares $ 325
Weighted-average remaining contractual term, options outstanding at the end of the period, in years 5 years 2 months 12 days
Weighted-average remaining contractual term, options exercisable at the end of the period, in years 4 years 2 months 12 days
Weighted-average remaining contractual term, options vested and expected to vest at the end of the period, in years 5 years 2 months 12 days
Aggregate intrinsic value, options outstanding at the end of the period | $ $ 432
Aggregate intrinsic value, options exercisable at the end of the period | $ 403
Aggregate intrinsic value, options vested and expected to vest at the end of the period | $ $ 432
v3.25.4
Share-Based Payments (Summary of Restricted Stock Unit and Performance Stock Activity) (Details) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, shares in Millions, $ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]      
Outstanding, beginning of period (in shares) 2.1    
Granted (in shares) 1.0    
Converted (in shares) (1.1)    
Forfeited (in shares) (0.1)    
Outstanding, end of period (in shares) 1.9 2.1  
Units expected to vest at the end of the period 1.8    
Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value      
Weighted-average grant-date fair value, units outstanding, beginning of period $ 403    
Weighted-average grant-date fair value, granted 566 $ 472 $ 350
Weighted-average grant-date fair value, converted 385    
Weighted-average grant-date fair value, forfeited 470    
Weighted-average grant-date fair value, units outstanding, end of period 498 $ 403  
Weighted-average grant-date fair value, units vested and expected to vest at the end of the period $ 498    
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Aggregate Intrinsic Value [Abstract]      
Aggregate intrinsic value, units outstanding at the end of the period $ 1,070    
Aggregate intrinsic value, units expected to vest at the end of the period $ 1,032    
Performance stock units      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]      
Outstanding, beginning of period (in shares) 0.6    
Granted (in shares) 0.2    
Converted (in shares) (0.2)    
Other (in shares) 0.0    
Outstanding, end of period (in shares) 0.6 0.6  
Units expected to vest at the end of the period 0.6    
Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value      
Weighted-average grant-date fair value, units outstanding, beginning of period $ 396    
Weighted-average grant-date fair value, granted 608 $ 512 $ 365
Weighted-average grant-date fair value, converted 335    
Weighted-average grant-date fair value, other 364    
Weighted-average grant-date fair value, units outstanding, end of period 472 $ 396  
Weighted-average grant-date fair value, units vested and expected to vest at the end of the period $ 472    
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Aggregate Intrinsic Value [Abstract]      
Aggregate intrinsic value, units outstanding at the end of the period $ 335    
Aggregate intrinsic value, units expected to vest at the end of the period $ 331    
v3.25.4
Share-Based Payments Schedule of Additional Share-Based Payment Information (Details) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, $ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Share-based compensation expense: Options, RSUs and PSUs $ 597 $ 526 $ 460
Income tax benefit recognized for equity awards 128 111 99
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Exercise of Option, Tax Benefit 26 77 95
Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised $ 180 $ 354 $ 487
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Weighted-average grant-date fair value of awards granted $ 566 $ 472 $ 350
Total grant-date fair value of awards vested $ 421 $ 340 $ 235
Total intrinsic value of units converted into shares of Class A common stock $ 622 $ 477 $ 253
Performance stock units      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Weighted-average grant-date fair value of awards granted $ 608 $ 512 $ 365
Total grant-date fair value of awards vested $ 79 $ 99 $ 12
Total intrinsic value of units converted into shares of Class A common stock $ 135 $ 122 $ 14
v3.25.4
Commitments Future Minimum Payments Due Under Non-Cancelable Agreements (Details)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2025
USD ($)
Sponsorship, Licensing & Other  
2026 $ 714
2027 581
2028 291
2029 131
2030 115
Thereafter 201
Total $ 2,033
v3.25.4
Income Taxes Schedule of Domestic and Foreign Earnings (Loss) Before Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]      
United States $ 6,652 $ 6,168 $ 4,506
Foreign 11,926 9,086 9,133
Income before income taxes $ 18,578 $ 15,254 $ 13,639
v3.25.4
Income Taxes Components of Income Tax Provision (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Current      
Federal $ 1,265 $ 1,093 $ 991
State and local (198) 144 127
Foreign 2,486 1,670 1,563
Current 3,553 2,907 2,681
Deferred      
Federal (173) (197) (180)
State and local 32 (14) (18)
Foreign 198 (316) (39)
Deferred 57 (527) (237)
Income tax expense $ 3,610 $ 2,380 $ 2,444
v3.25.4
Income Taxes Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Amount      
Income before income taxes $ 18,578 $ 15,254 $ 13,639
Federal statutory tax 3,901 3,203 2,864
Foreign-derived intangible income deduction (204) (195) (144)
U.S. foreign tax credits (259) (224) 73
Other 140 77 110
Effects of changes in tax law   0 (688)
Valuation allowance 76 113 644
Other, net (194) (28) (71)
Income tax expense $ 3,610 $ 2,380 $ 2,444
Percent      
Federal statutory tax 21.00% 21.00% 21.00%
Foreign-derived intangible income deduction (1.10%) (1.30%) (1.10%)
U.S. foreign tax credits 1.40% 1.50% (0.50%)
Other 0.80% 0.50% 0.80%
Effects of changes in tax law     (5.00%)
Valuation allowance 0.40% 0.70% 4.70%
Other, net (1.00%) (0.20%) (0.50%)
Income tax expense 19.40% 15.60% 17.90%
Singapore      
Amount      
Foreign income tax rate differential $ (161) $ (162) $ (147)
Singapore tax incentive (330) (644) (571)
Pillar 2 Rules $ 233 $ 0 $ 0
Percent      
Foreign income tax rate differential (0.90%) (1.10%) (1.10%)
Singapore tax incentive (1.80%) (4.20%) (4.20%)
Pillar 2 Rules 1.30% 0.00% 0.00%
Other foreign jurisdictions      
Amount      
Foreign income tax rate differential $ 408 $ 240 $ 374
Percent      
Foreign income tax rate differential 2.20% 1.60% 2.70%
v3.25.4
Income Taxes Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, $ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Valuation Allowance [Line Items]        
Effective income tax rate 19.40% 15.60% 17.90%  
Impact of incentive grant received reducing income tax liability value $ 330 $ 644 $ 571  
Earning per share diluted impact of incentive grant received reducing income tax liability $ 0.36 $ 0.69 $ 0.60  
U.S. foreign tax credits $ 802 $ 736    
Net operating losses 221 468    
Unrecognized tax benefit 311 $ 304 $ 431 $ 414
Unrecognized tax benefits that would reduce the effective tax rate $ 252      
Singapore        
Valuation Allowance [Line Items]        
Foreign statutory tax rate 17.00%      
v3.25.4
Income Taxes - Schedule of Income Taxes Paid (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Income Tax Paid, by Individual Jurisdiction [Line Items]      
Federal $ 1,359 $ 1,279 $ 1,194
State 95 155 133
Total 3,020 3,252 2,746
Belgium      
Income Tax Paid, by Individual Jurisdiction [Line Items]      
Foreign 668 562 516
United Kingdom      
Income Tax Paid, by Individual Jurisdiction [Line Items]      
Foreign 330 592 429
Brazil      
Income Tax Paid, by Individual Jurisdiction [Line Items]      
Foreign 168 333 254
Other      
Income Tax Paid, by Individual Jurisdiction [Line Items]      
Foreign $ 400 $ 331 $ 220
v3.25.4
Income Taxes Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Deferred tax assets        
Accrued liabilities $ 1,079 $ 939    
Compensation and benefits 408 371    
Net operating losses 221 468    
U.S. foreign tax credits 802 736    
Property and equipment 482 432    
Intangible assets 169 160    
Lease liabilities 143 134    
Other items 246 236    
Less: Valuation allowance (974) (871) $ (758) $ (114)
Total deferred tax assets 2,576 2,605    
Deferred tax liabilities        
Prepaid expenses and other accruals 280 195    
Gains on equity investments 111 112    
Goodwill and intangible assets 718 760    
Right-of-use lease assets 124 116    
Other items 83 125    
Total deferred tax liabilities 1,316 1,308    
Net deferred tax assets $ 1,260 $ 1,297    
v3.25.4
Income Taxes Summary of Changes to Valuation Allowance on Deferred Tax Assets (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Valuation Allowance [Line Items]      
Deferred tax assets, valuation allowance, beginning of period $ 871 $ 758 $ 114
Changes to Related Gross Deferred Tax Assets 100 112 320
Change/(Release) 3 1 324
Deferred tax assets, valuation allowance, end of period 974 871 758
U.S. foreign tax credit carryforward      
Valuation Allowance [Line Items]      
Deferred tax assets, valuation allowance, beginning of period 736 635 0
Changes to Related Gross Deferred Tax Assets 66 101 308
Change/(Release) 0 0 327
Deferred tax assets, valuation allowance, end of period 802 736 635
Net operating and capital losses      
Valuation Allowance [Line Items]      
Deferred tax assets, valuation allowance, beginning of period 135 123 114
Changes to Related Gross Deferred Tax Assets 34 11 12
Change/(Release) 3 1 (3)
Deferred tax assets, valuation allowance, end of period $ 172 $ 135 $ 123
v3.25.4
Income Taxes Reconciliation of Beginning and Ending Tax Benefits (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Unrecognized Tax Benefits [Roll Forward]      
Beginning balance $ 304 $ 431 $ 414
Additions      
Current year tax positions 38 37 23
Prior year tax positions 68 34 16
Reductions      
Prior year tax positions (93) (189) (7)
Settlements with tax authorities 0 0 0
Expired statute of limitations (6) (9) (15)
Ending balance $ 311 $ 304 $ 431
v3.25.4
Legal and Regulatory Proceedings (Details)
£ in Millions, € in Billions
12 Months Ended 81 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
USD ($)
merchant
claimant
Dec. 31, 2025
GBP (£)
Dec. 31, 2025
USD ($)
merchant
claimant
fax
Dec. 31, 2025
GBP (£)
fax
Dec. 31, 2025
EUR (€)
fax
Dec. 31, 2024
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
complaint
Dec. 31, 2011
plaintiff
Sep. 30, 2025
merchant
Dec. 31, 2025
GBP (£)
merchant
claimant
Dec. 31, 2018
Legal And Regulatory                      
Payment toward legal settlements     $ 647,000,000     $ 496,000,000 $ 929,000,000        
Pending claims, number of opt-out merchants | merchant 2   2             2  
Accrued litigation $ 800,000,000   $ 800,000,000     930,000,000          
Number of unsolicited advertisements | fax     381,000 381,000 381,000            
Damages sought per claim     $ 500                
2022 Mastercard and Visa Proposed Collective Action Complaint in the U.K.                      
Legal And Regulatory                      
Amount of damages sought (approximately) 1,300,000,000 £ 1,000                  
Proposed U.K. Interchange Collective Action                      
Legal And Regulatory                      
Payment toward legal settlements     263,000,000 £ 200              
Amount of damages sought (approximately)     $ 13,000,000,000 £ 10,000              
Loss contingency, claims dismissed, number of years     5 years 5 years 5 years            
Portugal Proposed Interchange Collective Action                      
Legal And Regulatory                      
Amount of damages sought (approximately)     $ 500,000,000   € 0.4            
Complaint period     20 years 20 years 20 years            
Netherlands Proposed Interchange Collective Action                      
Legal And Regulatory                      
Amount of damages sought (approximately)     $ 400,000,000   € 0.3            
ATM Operators Complaint                      
Legal And Regulatory                      
Payment toward legal settlements     93,000,000                
Amount of damages sought (approximately)     1,000,000,000                
Number of plaintiffs in case | plaintiff               13      
Number of pending claims | complaint             3        
Loss contingency accrual $ 79,000,000   79,000,000                
U.S. Liability Shift Litigation                      
Legal And Regulatory                      
Amount of damages sought (approximately)     $ 1,000,000,000                
Number of pending claims | claimant 4   4             4  
Loss contingency accrual $ 80,000,000   $ 80,000,000                
Pending Litigation | U.K. Merchant Lawsuit Settlement                      
Legal And Regulatory                      
Unresolved damages claims remaining $ 400,000,000   $ 400,000,000             £ 300  
Event Involving Visa Parties, Member Banks and Mastercard                      
Legal And Regulatory                      
Percent of settlement Mastercard would pay               12.00%      
Event Involving Member Banks and Mastercard                      
Legal And Regulatory                      
Percent of settlement Mastercard would pay               36.00%      
U.S. Merchant Litigation - Class Litigation                      
Legal And Regulatory                      
Pending claims, groups of opt-out merchants | merchant 7   7             7  
Amount of damages sought (approximately)     $ 1,000,000,000                
Number of pending claims scheduled for trial | merchant 6   6             6  
U.S. Merchant Litigation - Class Litigation | Maximum                      
Legal And Regulatory                      
Percentage of opted out merchants to terminate                     25.00%
U.S. Merchant Litigation - Class Litigation | Minimum                      
Legal And Regulatory                      
Percentage of Mastercard's U.S. interchange volume represented 90.00%   90.00%             90.00%  
U.S. Merchant Litigation - Opt-Out | Minimum | Settled Litigation                      
Legal And Regulatory                      
Number of claims settled | merchant                 250    
U.S. Merchant Lawsuit Settlement                      
Legal And Regulatory                      
Accrued litigation $ 637,000,000   $ 637,000,000     $ 559,000,000          
v3.25.4
Settlement and Other Risk Management Estimated Settlement Exposure and Portion of Uncollateralized Settlement Exposure for MasterCard-Branded Transactions (Details) - Guarantee Obligations - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Risks Inherent in Servicing Assets and Servicing Liabilities [Line Items]    
Gross settlement exposure $ 89,599 $ 78,385
Risk mitigation arrangements applied to settlement exposure (16,722) (13,466)
Net settlement exposure $ 72,877 $ 64,919
v3.25.4
Derivative and Hedging Instruments - Narrative (Details)
€ in Millions, $ in Millions
1 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
EUR (€)
Dec. 31, 2025
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2024
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2025
EUR (€)
Dec. 31, 2024
EUR (€)
Foreign Exchange Risk Management            
Realized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges reclassified from AOCI   $ (395) $ 178 $ (35)    
Pre-tax, net foreign currency gain (loss) of net investment hedge   12 43 (98)    
Euro-Denominated Debt            
Foreign Exchange Risk Management            
Pre-tax, net foreign currency gain (loss) of net investment hedge   (227) 104 (67)    
Interest rate contracts | Interest expense            
Foreign Exchange Risk Management            
Realized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges reclassified from AOCI   $ (7) (7) $ (6)    
Cash Flow Hedging            
Foreign Exchange Risk Management            
Derivative, term of contract   18 months        
Maximum remaining maturity of foreign currency derivatives   7 years        
Net Investment Hedging            
Foreign Exchange Risk Management            
Euro-denominated debt designated as hedge of net investment in European foreign operations denominated in euros | €         € 1,700 € 1,300
Net Investment Hedging | Euro-Denominated Debt            
Foreign Exchange Risk Management            
Derivative, de-designated, amount | € € 400          
Net foreign currency gain (loss), after tax   $ 126 $ 295      
v3.25.4
Derivative and Hedging Instruments - Fair Value of Company's Derivative Financial Instruments (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Foreign Exchange Risk Management    
Notional $ 10,916 $ 10,203
Derivative assets 35 206
Derivative liabilities 187 99
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Foreign exchange contracts | Prepaid Expenses, Other Current Assets, and Other Current Liabilities    
Foreign Exchange Risk Management    
Notional 4,866 2,741
Derivative assets 19 17
Derivative liabilities 18 30
Cash Flow Hedging | Designated as Hedging Instrument | Foreign exchange contracts | Prepaid Expenses, Other Current Assets, and Other Current Liabilities    
Foreign Exchange Risk Management    
Notional 5,050 3,951
Derivative assets 16 135
Derivative liabilities 142 6
Fair Value Hedging | Designated as Hedging Instrument | Interest rate contracts | Other Current Liabilities and Other Liabilities    
Foreign Exchange Risk Management    
Notional 1,000 1,000
Derivative assets 0 0
Derivative liabilities 27 63
Net Investment Hedging | Designated as Hedging Instrument | Foreign exchange contracts | Prepaid Expenses, Other Current Assets, and Other Current Liabilities    
Foreign Exchange Risk Management    
Notional 0 2,511
Derivative assets 0 54
Derivative liabilities $ 0 $ 0
v3.25.4
Derivative and Hedging Instruments - Gain (Loss) Related to the Company's Derivative Financial Instruments Designated as Hedging Instruments (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Foreign Exchange Risk Management      
Unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges, before tax $ (301) $ 161 $ (41)
Realized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges reclassified from AOCI (395) 178 (35)
Pre-tax, net foreign currency gain (loss) of net investment hedge 12 43 (98)
Foreign exchange contracts      
Foreign Exchange Risk Management      
Unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges, before tax (301) 161 (41)
Foreign exchange contracts | Net revenue      
Foreign Exchange Risk Management      
Realized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges reclassified from AOCI (45) 8 (29)
Foreign exchange contracts | General and administrative      
Foreign Exchange Risk Management      
Realized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges reclassified from AOCI (343) 177 0
Interest rate contracts | Interest expense      
Foreign Exchange Risk Management      
Realized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges reclassified from AOCI $ (7) $ (7) $ (6)
v3.25.4
Derivative and Hedging Instruments - Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income for the Contracts to Purchase and Sell Foreign Currency Summary (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Summary of Derivative Instruments [Abstract]      
Gain (loss) for contracts to purchase and sell foreign currency $ 64 $ 32 $ 42
Derivative, Gain (Loss), Statement of Income or Comprehensive Income [Extensible Enumeration] General and administrative General and administrative General and administrative
v3.25.4
Segment Reporting - Narrative (Details) - merchant
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Segment Reporting [Abstract]      
Number of reportable segments 1    
Number of operating segments 1    
Percentage of revenue generated in the U.S. 29.00% 30.00% 30.00%
v3.25.4
Segment Reporting - Selected Segment Information (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Net revenue $ 32,791 $ 28,167 $ 25,098
Foreign exchange activity (64) (32) (42)
Advertising and marketing 929 815 825
Depreciation and amortization 1,143 897 799
Provision for litigation 504 680 539
Investment income (325) (327) (274)
(Gains) losses on equity investments, net 88 29 61
Interest expense 722 646 575
Other (income) expense, net (166) (20) 7
Income tax expense 3,610 2,380 2,444
Net Income 14,968 12,874 11,195
Payment Solutions      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Net revenue 32,791 28,167 25,098
Personnel 7,251 6,673 6,022
Professional Fees 537 549 495
Data processing and telecommunications 1,272 1,119 1,008
Foreign exchange activity 113 65 83
Advertising and marketing 929 815 825
Depreciation and amortization 1,143 897 799
Provision for litigation 504 680 539
Investment income (325) (327) (274)
(Gains) losses on equity investments, net 88 29 61
Interest expense 722 646 575
Other (income) expense, net (166) (20) 7
Income tax expense 3,610 2,380 2,444
Other segment items 2,145 1,787 1,319
Net Income $ 14,968 $ 12,874 $ 11,195
v3.25.4
Segment Reporting - Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment, Net by Geographical Location (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment, by Geographical Segment      
Property, equipment and right-of-use assets, net $ 2,303 $ 2,138 $ 2,061
United States      
Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment, by Geographical Segment      
Property, equipment and right-of-use assets, net 1,168 1,095 1,027
Other countries      
Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment, by Geographical Segment      
Property, equipment and right-of-use assets, net $ 1,135 $ 1,043 $ 1,034