This new logo is embarrassingly naff. Look at all the gradients! And why is that central circle off to the right like that?
According to their Chief Marketing Officer, Lawrence Flanagan, the new brand identity “follows an extensive analysis of the MasterCard brand and the value proposition it represents to constituents”, and the new logo reflects the company’s unique, three-tiered business model as a franchisor, processor and advisor.
It all becomes clear! They are obviously trying to communicate that they are an all-knowing, yet transparent advisor, with a strong emphasis on security (notice the thick perimeter wall around Mr Advisor), who are becoming increasingly friendly with their (yellow) franchisees, but without leaving the important (red!) processing part of their business out in the cold. Or something.