Mastercard operates a global payments network that routes, clears, and settles card and other payment transactions across countries and currencies. The company also sells value-added services and solutions, including security solutions, consumer acquisition and engagement services, business and market insights, digital and authentication solutions, and processing and gateway services. The company serves financial institutions, merchants, governments, fintechs, and partners with technology and data products alongside the network. Mastercard is a public company headquartered in Purchase, New York.

Mastercard employed approximately 35,300 people globally as of December 31, 2024, with around 69% of employees based outside the United States across more than 90 countries. Mastercard describes a hybrid work approach for non-remote roles that averages at least three days per week in the office, alongside flexibility programs such as a four-week “work from elsewhere” policy.