Crypto Cards Surge in Europe 15% Rise in 2025 as Micro-Spending Shifts

Crypto cards are increasingly becoming a preferred choice for small purchases in Europe, with 45% of transactions made using these cards being under 10 euros. This trend indicates a shift away from traditional banking methods, where cash has historically dominated such micro-spending. The convenience and flexibility of crypto cards are driving this change, as users find them more accessible and cost-effective for everyday transactions.

According to a report, crypto card holders in Europe are adopting spending patterns similar to those of traditional bank card users, but with a faster embrace of online payments. The report highlights a 15% rise in newly ordered crypto cards across Europe in 2025, reflecting a growing interest in digital assets for daily payments. This trend is further supported by data showing that 40% of crypto card transactions are conducted online, nearly double the average for traditional card payments in the euro area.

The spending habits of crypto card users reveal that groceries make up 59% of purchases, closely aligning with the 54% benchmark set by the European Central Bank. Dining and bar expenses account for 19% of transactions, surpassing the average for in-person food and drink spending. The average transaction value for crypto cards is 23.7 euros, compared to 33.6 euros for traditional bank cards, indicating a preference for smaller, more frequent purchases.

Stablecoins are the primary cryptocurrency used for transactions, powering 73% of all crypto card purchases. Other major cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ether, Litecoin, and Solana, are also being used for everyday expenses such as groceries, dining, and transportation. This diversification in cryptocurrency usage suggests a maturing market where users are comfortable with various digital assets for their financial needs.

Despite the growing adoption of crypto cards, traditional banks are not without their concerns. Barclays, for instance, has announced plans to ban crypto transactions on its Barclaycard credit cards, citing fears of customers falling into unmanageable debt due to market volatility. The bank also highlighted the lack of investor protections in the crypto sector, which leaves consumers exposed to risks without recourse through traditional financial safeguards.

The trend of increasing crypto card usage is consistent across different providers. Oobit and Crypto.com have reported strong spending on everyday essentials and high volumes in online shopping transactions, respectively. This widespread adoption indicates a broader acceptance of cryptocurrencies in daily financial transactions, as more consumers and businesses recognize the benefits of digital currencies.

In conclusion, the rise of crypto cards in Europe signals a significant shift in the micro-spending landscape. As digital currencies continue to gain traction, traditional banks will need to adapt their services to remain competitive. This could involve investing in new technologies or developing their own digital currency solutions to meet the evolving needs of their customers. The future of micro-spending in Europe is likely to be shaped by the ongoing evolution of digital currencies and the technologies that support them.