Key Takeaways:
- SoFi becomes the first U.S. bank to integrate the Bitcoin Lightning Network and Universal Money Address (UMA) for faster, low-cost cross-border payments.
- The blockchain-based remittance service, developed with Lightspark, will launch later this year, starting with transfers to Mexico.
- The new system enables real-time USD-to-Bitcoin conversion, instant international transfers, and delivery in local currency with transparent fees.
SoFi Technologies is set to become the first U.S. bank to integrate both the Bitcoin Lightning Network and the Universal Money Address (UMA), in partnership with Bitcoin payments provider Lightspark.
The move will power a new blockchain-based remittance service, launching later this year with Mexico as the first market.
BREAKING: 🇺🇸 $30 BILLION GIANT SOFI JUST ANNOUNCED TO USE #BITCOIN LIGHTNING FOR REMITTANCES
— Vivek Sen (@Vivek4real_) August 19, 2025
IT'S HAPPENING!!! pic.twitter.com/NHWVPT7L8z
The service will let users send funds directly from the SoFi app, converting U.S. dollars into Bitcoin in real time, transferring them via the Lightning Network, and settling them in local currency at the recipient’s bank.
Lightspark’s UMA simplifies transfers with email-like addresses while leveraging Bitcoin’s speed and low cost.
SoFi CEO Anthony Noto highlighted the importance of affordable and fast cross-border payments for members, noting that the service provides greater convenience and transparency with upfront exchange rates and fees.
SoFi, which serves 11.7 million members, said transaction costs will be below national averages, and transfers will be available 24/7.
Lightspark founder David Marcus, former PayPal president, emphasized Bitcoin’s neutrality and decentralization as an alternative to legacy correspondent banking networks, stating that open financial systems will ultimately prevail.
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