How are crypto cards driving faster adoption of online spending compared to banks

Crypto cards are rapidly reshaping the payment landscape in Europe by driving a faster embrace of online spending compared to traditional bank cards. Data from CEX.IO reveals that 40% of crypto card transactions occur online, nearly double the 21% average for all card payments across the euro area.

This stark difference highlights the digital-native tendencies of crypto users, who are more comfortable integrating cryptocurrencies into their daily financial activities. The surge in online spending via crypto cards reflects a broader shift toward cashless, digital-first payment habits among European consumers.

Everyday Spending Patterns Mirror Traditional Banking

Despite their innovative payment rails, crypto cardholders exhibit spending behaviors closely aligned with traditional bank card users. Groceries account for 59% of crypto card purchases, slightly above the European Central Bank’s 54% benchmark for conventional cards, while dining and bars make up 19%, surpassing average in-person food and drink spending.

The average transaction value on crypto cards is €23.7, lower than the €33.6 average for bank cards, indicating a preference for smaller, more frequent purchases. These patterns suggest that crypto cards are not just niche tools but are being adopted for routine, everyday expenses.

Did you know?
Nearly half of all crypto card transactions in Europe are under €10, a spending segment historically dominated by cash. This shift suggests that crypto cards are accelerating the decline of cash usage even for small everyday purchases, heralding a more cashless future.

Stablecoins and Diversified Crypto Usage Power Transactions

Stablecoins dominate crypto card transactions, powering 73% of payments and providing users with price stability and seamless conversion. Other prominent cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ether, Litecoin, and Solana are also widely used across categories like groceries, dining, and transportation.

This diversified crypto ecosystem signals growing confidence in digital assets as practical currencies for daily spending rather than solely speculative investments.

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Growing Demand and Market Momentum

The rising popularity of crypto cards is evident in a 15% increase in new card orders across Europe in 2025, underscoring expanding consumer interest and trust in crypto payment solutions. Industry players like Oobit and Crypto.com report similar trends, with strong spending on essentials and high volumes of online shopping transactions.

This momentum indicates a broadening acceptance of cryptocurrencies in everyday financial transactions, challenging traditional banking’s dominance in micro-spending and e-commerce.

Challenges and Industry Responses

Despite this growth, some traditional banks remain cautious. Barclays, for example, has announced plans to block crypto transactions on its Barclaycard credit cards, citing concerns over customer debt risks and the absence of investor protections in the crypto sector.

This stance highlights ongoing tensions between emerging crypto payment methods and established financial institutions, which may slow mainstream adoption but also underscore the need for regulatory clarity and consumer safeguards.