Bitcoin News Today: Walmart's Crypto Push Aims to Make Digital Assets as Common as Credit Cards
Walmart-backed fintech platform OnePay is set to launch BitcoinBTC-- (BTC) and EthereumETH-- (ETH) trading and custody services in the fourth quarter of 2025, marking a pivotal step in mainstream cryptocurrency adoption. The initiative, powered by a partnership with crypto infrastructure provider Zero Hash, will enable users to buy, hold, and convert digital assets into fiat currency for in-store purchases at WalmartWMT-- locations or to settle card balances[1]. This move aligns with Walmart's broader strategy to transform OnePay into a "superapp," integrating financial services with its retail ecosystem to compete with global counterparts like WeChat[2].
The technical infrastructure for the new services is managed by Zero Hash LLC and Zero Hash Liquidity Services LLC, which will handle custody of digital assets. Users activating OnePay Crypto will open accounts with Zero Hash, though the services are not FDIC- or SIPC-insured, exposing users to potential losses[1]. The launch follows a $104 million funding round led by Interactive Brokers and Morgan Stanley for Zero Hash, underscoring growing institutional confidence in crypto infrastructure[2].
OnePay's expansion into crypto is expected to reshape the competitive landscape. Traditional exchanges like Coinbase and Robinhood may face heightened pressure as OnePay leverages Walmart's 150 million weekly U.S. shoppers to drive adoption[1]. The integration of crypto into Walmart's retail network could redefine consumer spending habits, positioning digital assets as practical tools for daily transactions rather than speculative investments[3]. Additionally, the partnership validates the business model of crypto infrastructure providers, signaling increased demand as more corporations enter the space[1].
Regulatory scrutiny is inevitable, with OnePay navigating challenges around consumer protection, AML/KYC compliance, and the classification of crypto assets. The initiative could accelerate the development of global regulatory frameworks, particularly as cross-border digital asset integration becomes more prevalent[1]. Historically, financial innovation-such as the rise of credit cards and online banking-has been driven by convenience and trust; OnePay's approach mirrors this pattern by embedding crypto into a trusted retail brand[1].
Looking ahead, OnePay's long-term strategy includes expanding offerings to include stablecoins, cross-border payments, and blockchain-based loyalty programs[1]. Walmart itself may explore issuing a dollar-pegged stablecoin to streamline retail transactions and reduce fees. However, challenges persist, including market volatility, cybersecurity risks, and the need for public education to overcome skepticism. Analysts project Bitcoin could reach $135,000 by year-end, though institutional adoption and regulatory clarity will remain critical factors[2].
The broader implications extend beyond retail. Traditional banks and fintechs lacking crypto integration may lose market share as consumer demand for integrated financial services grows. Morgan Stanley and other institutions have already begun offering crypto access, signaling a shift toward digital asset adoption[2]. For investors, key metrics to monitor include OnePay's user adoption rates, regulatory responses, and competitive reactions from rivals like Amazon and Target[1].
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