finance – Novacrust Blog

Novacrust Joins the Circle Alliance Program

We are excited to announce that Novacrust has officially joined the Circle Alliance Program, a prestigious global network of innovative organizations reshaping the future of digital finance and cross-border payments.

The Circle Alliance Program brings together industry pioneers and technology leaders committed to advancing the adoption of USDC and building accessible, transparent digital financial infrastructure worldwide. As part of this ecosystem, Novacrust will collaborate with fellow innovators, explore new possibilities for stablecoin-powered payments, and contribute to creating a more inclusive financial system for Africa and beyond.

What is the Circle Alliance Program?

The Circle Alliance Program is Circle’s initiative to unite forward-thinking companies across fintech, blockchain, and digital finance sectors. Members of this alliance work together to expand financial inclusion, enhance cross-border payment systems, and unlock the full potential of USDC and Web3 services.

Being part of this network means Novacrust will:

Collaborate with Global Innovators: Connect with industry leaders and technology partners building the next generation of financial infrastructure
Access Expert Resources: Engage directly with Circle’s Product, Engineering, Ventures, Policy, and Developer teams through dedicated support and members-only events
Drive Real-World Impact: Explore new use cases for USDC integration that solve actual payment challenges facing individuals and businesses across Africa
Enhance Visibility: Gain recognition through the Circle Alliance Directory alongside prominent players in fintech, enterprise, and DeFi sectors
Shape the Future: Contribute insights and feedback that influence the development of Circle’s products and the broader digital finance ecosystem

Why This Matters for Novacrust

At Novacrust, our mission has always been to enable individuals and businesses across Africa to get paid, spend, and make payments reliably and instantly. Joining the Circle Alliance Program strengthens our ability to deliver on this promise by connecting us with the infrastructure, expertise, and network necessary to scale our impact.

This partnership aligns perfectly with our core offerings:

Enhanced Cross-Border Payments

With Circle’s robust USDC infrastructure, we can further optimize our cross-border payment services, ensuring money reaches local accounts, mobile money wallets, and global accounts within minutes not days.

Stablecoin Integration

USDC support across multiple blockchains including Base, Ethereum, Polygon PoS, OP Mainnet, and Celo enables us to provide our customers with more options for receiving, spending, and converting digital assets seamlessly.

Global Account Services

Our USD, EUR, and GBP accounts benefit from Circle’s transparent and compliant ecosystem, allowing customers to fund their accounts flexibly and transact with confidence.

Virtual Card Solutions

Integrating USDC with our virtual card services means customers can fund cards in stablecoins and spend globally with lower currency conversion costs and faster settlement times.

What’s Next

Joining the Circle Alliance Program marks a significant milestone in Novacrust’s journey to revolutionize payments across Africa. This partnership opens doors to:

Product Innovation: Collaborate on new features and services that leverage USDC’s stability and Circle’s technology
Expanded Reach: Access to Circle’s global network and potential co-marketing opportunities to amplify our impact
Regulatory Excellence: Benefit from Circle’s compliance expertise as we navigate the evolving digital asset regulatory landscape
Community Engagement: Connect with other Alliance members to share insights, best practices, and explore partnership opportunities

We’re committed to leveraging this partnership to enhance our platform, reduce transaction costs for our customers, and bring the benefits of digital finance to more individuals and businesses across Africa and beyond.

About Novacrust

Novacrust is an all-in-one platform that empowers individuals and businesses across Africa with:

Cross-Border Payments: Send money to local accounts, mobile money, and global accounts within 5 minutes
Global Accounts: USD, EUR, and GBP accounts with flexible funding options
Off-Ramp Services: Receive payments from U.S. banks, Payoneer, Stripe, PayPal, and other major platforms
Crypto Support: Receive, spend, and convert crypto to cash seamlessly
Virtual Cards: Fund in local currency or stablecoins and spend globally
OTC Services: Quick off-ramping from Zelle, PayPal, CashApp, and Revolut
Savings Solutions: Earn and preserve value through diverse fiat and DeFi channels

Learn more about the Circle Alliance Program: Circle Alliance Program

Visit our Circle Alliance Directory listing: Novacrust on Circle Partners

Connect with us: novacrust.com

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue building the future of cross-border payments and financial inclusion across Africa.

Meet Florence Ogunbore: She started as a developer, now she is shaping the future of Product Managers

Florence didn’t set out to become a Product Manager, she simply followed her curiosity, her love for building, and her drive to solve real problems. What started as a front-end development journey gradually unfolded into a passion for product thinking, community building, and guiding others entering tech.

In this interview, she shares how she transitioned into PM, built Product Buddies, earned an industry nomination, and why the version of her from three years ago would be proud today.

Hi Florence, Welcome to our Growth Series. Can you please tell us about yourself. who is Florence Ogunbore?

My name is Florence Oguunbore. I’m a Product Manager by day and a Web Developer whenever I get the chance. I actually started my tech journey as a web developer, learning front-end. Along the way, I came across product management, although at the time, I didn’t know that was what I was doing.

While working as a developer in a software agency, I found myself taking on responsibilities like coordinating tasks, managing people, and handling product decisions. It wasn’t until later that I realized those responsibilities fell under product management. I’ve now been a Product Manager for over three years.

You mentioned you started earlier but didn’t know it was product management at the time. Can you clarify your timeline?

Yes, I started coding in 2018 and worked fully as a developer. In 2021, while working at a software agency, I was put in charge of an internal product. I was acting almost like the CTO managing people, assigning tasks, keeping an eye on deliverables, even though I didn’t know it was called product management then.

I remember telling a friend that I didn’t want to only build things; I wanted to be part of the process before the building started. Even as a developer, I always attended client meetings to understand what we were building.

Later in 2021, I stepped away from coding and focused solely on managing that in-house project. That was when I consciously began learning product management. From December 2021 to January 2022, I started taking PM courses. By early 2022, I moved fully into product management, and by the end of the year I got my first PM role.

You also mentioned you still work as a web developer when you get the chance. Why “when you get the chance”?

Because product management is extremely time demanding. You have meetings from morning to afternoon, working closely with teams in real time.

Web development, on the other hand, gives me flexibility I can jump into it any time my schedule is free. But PM work is mostly daytime and structured.

Tell us more about Product Buddies. What is it about, and what have you achieved so far?

Product Buddies started as a support group. A popular product management OG created a PM challenge where participants picked a product and did a presentation. We created a channel for that challenge, and afterward we asked ourselves: Do we really need to disband this? Why not build something out of it?

That’s how Product Buddies was birthed. It started as a community for entry-level PMs and later grew to include mid-level and senior PMs. Today, we have over 1,000 members. We also have a Twitter community. We keep the group friendly, not overly serious, but still very supportive.

You were nominated for the Product that Counts Awards this year. How did that feel?

Honestly, I can never get used to how people see me. A friend asked for my information, and I was confused at first. Then she told me she wanted to nominate me for something.

The people who have won before are OGs in the industry, so it felt surreal. I’ve only been doing this for about three years, so the nomination felt big. I didn’t even know how to process it.

What are some cool things about product management that you’d tell someone interested in breaking into the field?

Two things:
1. You’ll learn a lot. PM exposes you to new knowledge, communities, and people.
2. You get to help people. There’s nothing like seeing users interact with a product you worked on, it’s very rewarding.

Would Florence from three years ago be proud of who you are now?

The 2022 version of me would be proud of me like mad! I’ve achieved so much, learned so much, and I’m genuinely enjoying this journey.

For someone who wants to go into PM or web design, what’s your advice? Should they get a job first and learn on the go, or learn first?

I’d say start with a beginner course. Learn the basics, the foundation is important and unavoidable. Use free resources too. First learn it, then decide if it’s really what you want.

After that, start putting yourself out there. Show your process, practice publicly, and apply for opportunities even if it’s an internship role.

Florence’s story is a reminder that career journeys don’t always follow a straight line, sometimes they unfold as we grow, explore, and step into new challenges. From writing code to managing products and building thriving communities, her path shows the power of curiosity, consistency, and learning in public. Whether you’re transitioning into PM, exploring web development, or still figuring out where you belong in tech, her story is proof that starting small, staying open, and showing your process can take you farther than you imagine.

Security Features to Look for in Virtual USD Cards

Discussing essential security aspects to consider when opting for virtual cards.

When it comes to online transactions, especially in dollars you can’t afford to take chances. And virtual USD cards have quickly become the go-to option for people looking for secure, cross-border payments. They’re quick, easy to use, and when chosen wisely, can offer top-notch protection for your money.

But not all virtual cards are created equal. it’s important to understand the security features that separate a secure virtual card from one that puts your money at risk. Some come with just the basics, while others are built to guard your money like a fortress. Whether you’re subscribing to a service or managing remote team payments, the right virtual card should give you peace of mind as you spend.

In this post, we’ll walk through the key security features you should look out for before choosing a virtual USD card, so you can spend smarter, safer, and with full control.

1. Instant Card Freezing and Unfreezing

Imagine noticing a suspicious transaction, your heart skips. A solid virtual card platform should let you freeze your card with a tap, instantly stopping any further activity. Found out it was a false alarm? Just unfreeze it, and you’re back in business. No customer service calls, no long wait.

2. Spending Limits and Usage Controls

Good virtual cards give you control. Look for platforms that let you set daily or monthly spending limits, restrict the card to certain merchant categories, or even make it single-use. These controls don’t just help you budget, they act as safety nets against fraud.

3. Real-Time Notifications

The best way to catch a suspicious transaction? Get notified the second it happens. Real-time alerts for every card activity keep you in the loop and let you act fast if something looks off.

4. Tokenization and Data Encryption

When your card data is tokenized, it means your actual card number is never exposed during transactions. Instead, temporary tokens are used. Combined with end-to-end encryption, this ensures that even if hackers intercept data, it’s useless to them.

5. Disposable / One-Time Use Cards

Need to make a one-off purchase on a website you don’t fully trust? A virtual card provider that offers single-use cards has your back. Once the transaction is done, the card number becomes useless, perfect for staying safe in risky environments.

While security is the foundation, there are other practical features worth considering when choosing your virtual USD card:

Global acceptance: Make sure the card works across major platforms like Amazon, Apple, Google, PayPal, etc.
Speed of issuance: Some providers let you generate cards instantly—ideal when you’re in a rush.
Customer support: If something goes wrong, you want a team that’s quick to respond and actually helpful.
Reputation: Do a little digging. Read reviews. Look for fintechs that are licensed, regulated, and trusted by users.

Choosing a virtual USD card is more than just about convenience,it’s about making sure your financial security is top-notch. But to truly benefit from them, you need to choose wisely. Go for a provider that puts your safety first, gives you control, and is built with transparency and trust in mind. Novacrust offers a compelling combination of these features making it a top choice for individuals and businesses alike.

So, the next time you’re thinking about getting a virtual USD card, don’t just ask what it can do. Ask how well it can protect you.

How to Use Virtual Cards For Your International Subscription Payments

A guide on setting up virtual usd cards for services like Netflix, spotify & Adobe

Imagine having to subscribe for your favorite apps, streaming services, or international software as effortless as sending a text message?. That’s the reality of online transactions today and more reason why virtual USD cards are quickly becoming the go-to tool for anyone who lives, works, or pays across borders. You might want to ask why it’s worth paying for services like Netflix, Adobe, and Spotify. In Nigeria, we all know the struggle of hunting down that latest series on crack sites; the buffering, weird pop-ups, and the constant fear of viruses. By subscribing to these services, you skip all that drama. You get smooth HD streaming of your favourite Nollywood movie, Afrobeats playlists without interruptions and original version of the software you need. Plus, you can share your account with family or friends, so everyone gets a slice of the fun. It’s peace of mind and convenience, all wrapped into one small monthly fee.

But without a reliable way to pay in dollars especially across borders these perks can feel out of reach. I’ve been there and nothing is more frustrating than your card getting declined when making payments to enjoy your favourite show or song.

What Is a Virtual USD Card?

A virtual card is a digital version of a payment card (Visa or Mastercard). It has its own card number with expiration date, and CVV and it exists only in your app or online account. You can fund it by loading money from your bank or wallet in your local currency and converting it into US dollars. Once it’s ready, you can use it anywhere for online purchases and subscriptions. No need to visit a bank or wait for a mail delivery. Because you can create, freeze, or delete virtual cards on demand, they offer an extra layer of security.

Why You Need a Virtual USD Card– Meet Novacrust

As someone who lives in africa, paying in dollars can be a headache. While our local banks often impose high fees, slow conversion times, and limits on international purchases, Novacrust virtual USD card solves these roadblocks:

Travel Without Stress

Whether you’re off for a holiday anywhere around the world. You don’t need to stress about currency exchange or unpredictable charges. Your virtual USD card keeps your payment smooth.

Pay for Tools & Apps

Need to renew your Adobe Creative Cloud & Netflix subscription, or grab a premium plugin for your side hustle? With a virtual USD card you can easily subscribe and renew your favourite apps in dollars.

Tuition & Online Learning

When enrolling in international online courses, you know how tricky those portals can be with local cards. With a virtual USD card, you can pay for school fees or online courses like Coursera and Udemy without dealing with bank frustrations.

Shop Internationally

Buy from Amazon, ASOS, or AliExpress without using third-party services or worrying about card rejections. A virtual USD card allows you to make payments with low transaction fees. You can also create multiple cards for different needs and track your spending with ease.

Steps on setting up a virtual usd card.

With 3 easy steps, you can set up your Novacrust virtual usd card;

Create your Novacrust Account; Sign up with email and get a free Novacrust account
Complete Kyc in 2 minutes; verify your identity using your government issued document
Get your Novacrust virtual card; create multiple cards and start making payments seamlessly.

Why use Novacrust for your International Subscription

While there are many virtual card options out there, Novacrust stands out for one simple reason; it was built with your real needs in mind. Transparent fees, high security, low exchange rates and no endless wait time. Just pure convenience.

From Netflix binges to Spotify vibes and essential work tools, Novacrust gets you connected instantly. It’s more than a card. it’s your ticket to a life without payment stress.

Ready to take control of your global spending? Get started with Novacrust today.

How to Choose the Right Virtual Card Provider for Your Needs

A guide to selecting a virtual card service that aligns with user requirements.

In today’s fast-paced world, everything happens with a tap. Shopping, streaming, studying, even running a business. So it’s no surprise that virtual dollar cards have quietly become the smarter way to spend online. No more fumbling with plastic cards or worrying about payment failures when you’re trying to renew your Spotify, buy a course, or shop on Amazon. With a virtual card, you can pay for international services in seconds, top up in Naira, and forget about the headaches of bank queues or card restrictions. These cards aren’t just a digital version of your wallet, they give you more control. You can freeze and unfreeze your funds when you want.

Introducing Novacrust; It is more than just a payment method. The Novacrust Virtual USD Card is your passport to seamless international transactions. With instant top-ups, no hidden charges, and solid security, it’s built for people who want smooth access to the world.

What to Look Out for When Choosing a Virtual Dollar Card

Having a virtual dollar card is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity. Whether you’re paying for Netflix, buying a tool for work, shopping globally, or settling school fees abroad, a good virtual card can make all the difference. But with so many options out there, how do you know which one is right for you?

Here are some important things to consider before choosing one:

1. Ease of Funding

Let’s be honest, if it takes forever to fund a card, it’s not the right fit. Look for a card that allows easy funding especially in your local currency. The more seamless it is to load your card, the quicker you can pay when it matters most.

2. Transparency with Charges

Hidden charges can be a nasty surprise. Before signing up, ensure that the provider clearly outlines all fees; be it for currency conversion, maintenance, or transactions.

3. Security

Your money deserves protection. Choose a card that offers two-factor authentication, instant card freeze, and other security features that give you peace of mind when making transactions online.

4. Global Acceptance

It’s one thing to have a virtual dollar card, it’s another to actually use it. Ensure the card is widely accepted and works with major platforms like Apple, Amazon, Spotify, Netflix, and other international services.

5. Customer Support

Things can go wrong, we all know that. But how quickly you get help makes all the difference. Choose a provider known for responsive and helpful customer service to assist you whenever needed.

6. User friendly Interface

The app or platform should be simple, clear, and easy to navigate. From card creation to viewing transactions, everything should just work. So you can focus on your transactions, not on figuring out how to use the app.

7. Multi-Currency Support (Optional but Helpful)

Some virtual cards are limited to USD. But if you plan to spend in other currencies like EUR or GBP, it’s worth considering a provider that supports multiple currencies. This gives you more flexibility for international dealings.

Choosing the right virtual dollar card isn’t just about going online and signing up for the first one you see. It’s about choosing a card that matches your lifestyle, one that’s reliable, clear on costs, and puts you first. And if you’re looking for a good place to start, you might want to check out Novacrust, a card built to make international payments feel easy, fast, and secure.

Click here to get your Novacrust virtual USD Card