INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
Crypto cards are beating traditional banks in Europe when it comes to small purchases, with 45% of crypto-linked card transactions under 10
holders are showing spending patterns that mirror traditional bank card users while embracing online payments at a faster pace.The report
noted a 15% rise in newly ordered CEX.IO crypto cards across Europe in 2025, signaling growing interest as more Europeans turn to digital
assets for everyday payments.Furthermore, while European Central Bank data shows 21% of all card payments across the euro area are online,
Kraken taps Mastercard to launch crypto debit cards in Europe, UKCrypto cards used for everyday spendingSpending patterns show crypto
cardholders are using their cards for everyday spending
average for in-person food and drink spending.Notably, the average crypto card transaction sits at 23.7 euros ($27.8) compared to 33.6 euros
($39) for bank cards, based on Q1 2025 Mastercard data.Crypto card spending distribution
stablecoins power 73% of transactions, with other major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC), Ether (ETH), Litecoin (LTC) and Solana (SOL)
also being used for groceries, dining and transportation.Cryptocurrencies used for purchases
Source: CEO.IOThe trend is consistent across other providers
For instance, Oobit reported strong spending on everyday essentials among European users, while Crypto.com noted similarly high volumes in
online shopping transactions.Related: Floki, Mastercard launch 13-crypto debit card in EuropeBarclays to block crypto purchases on credit
cardsDespite the surge in crypto card adoption, Barclays has announced plans to ban crypto transactions on its Barclaycard credit cards
The bank cited fears of customers falling into unmanageable debt due to crypto market volatility and highlighted the lack of investor
protections in the sector.Barclays explained that crypto asset purchases carry no recourse through the Financial Ombudsman Service or the
Financial Services Compensation Scheme if something goes wrong, leaving consumers exposed.Magazine: GENIUS Act reopens the door for a Meta
stablecoin, but will it work?
