The banks overtake crypto cards at daily expenses throughout Europe

Most important highlights:

• Cryptoc cards are now leading in the everyday small purchases in Europe.
• The report shows the increasing use of digital assets for daily expenses.
• Traditional banks lose flexible payment options associated with cryptocurrencies.

According to a current report by the European Central Bank (ECB), the way in which Europeans spend money is changing. In some EU countries, crypto cards for small daily purchases are already more popular than bank cards.

This is an indication of the increasing familiarity with the use of digital assets in everyday life. It also shows how the traditional banks gradually surrender to crypto -bound payment options.

Crypto cards win the game with the small amounts

In the ECB study Space 2024, the output behavior in the euro zone was observed. It was found that more and more people Crypto cards Use for micro expenditure for micro transactions such as buying coffee, food or subway tickets.

Crypto.com, Binance and Revolut offer all cards that enable the owners to make expenses in cryptocurrencies. These cards work through the conversion of online credit to euros during the payment process.

This means that you are compatible with every business that accepts Visa or Mastercard and do not require any additional systems or support for crypto payments.

“Consumers are becoming increasingly confident when using cryptocurrencies for daily needs,” said Hannah Fischer, payment analyst at the ECB. “It's no longer just about keeping them – people start to spend them.”

Why users prefer crypto cards

This increase has several possible causes. First of all, crypto cards offer good incentives, e.g. cashback in Bitcoin or a reduced fee. Most banks have reduced their loyalty programs and that makes the cryptocarta more attractive.

Second, traditional bank products are usually more restrictive than these cards. Cryptoc cards are more flexible and convenient for freelancers and long -distance workers who may have an insecure income.

They are also accessible to digital wallets such as Apple Pay or Google Pay, which is why they are suitable for use by mobile-first users.

Lucas Meyer, 27, a Berliner who began to use crypto cards instead of a conventional bank card last year, says: “Cryptocarts look more contemporary and fit me and people like me.”

Banks lose territory in everyday purchases

Even if banks are still responsible for large transactions, crypto cards in the area that the banks had monopolized are becoming increasingly popular. The expenses with small amounts were considered the safe terrain of the banks. That changes now.

Coinbase's result report for Q1 2025 reflects an increase in the volume of cryptocard transactions in Europe by 22 percent. Other crypto companies also recorded stable growth in this direction.

At the same time, the profits of payment services are decreasing at some of the largest banks in Europe. Numerous organizations invest in crypto cooperations, even if things develop very slowly.

“The banks have trouble keeping up with the expectations of the users,” said Fintech researcher Eva Dumas. “Crypto companies are more innovative, especially in payment transactions.”

Regulation will shape the future

With the help of the Mica Ordinance, the European Union will soon determine clear requirements for crypto cards and wallets. The law should protect consumers and ensure fair competition with the banks.

Crypto payment services are regulated according to the standards that also apply to traditional financial institutions. This means more security, clearer fees and better customer relationships.

Other analysts believe that these guidelines will be helped to bloom the crypto cards. Some say that the additional effort for compliance with the regulations can hinder innovation.

Nevertheless, the change is obvious, because crypto is no longer exclusively a means of investing. They also become a real instrument of daily money edition.

Disclaimer

This article only serves for information purposes and does not represent financial, investment or other advice. The author or the persons mentioned in this article are not responsible for financial losses that can arise from investments or trade. Please research yourself before making financial decisions.

Annah enjoys writing about cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. With More than 6 years of experience. For years she has followed their development and now believes these technologies could potentially revolutionize many industries. She has specialized in technical analysis to help cryptocurrency traders make more informed decisions.