Crypto cards are increasingly popular in Europe as a means for making small purchases, reflecting shifts in consumer preferences.
Use of Crypto Cards for Everyday Spending
Data shows that crypto cardholders are using their cards for everyday purchases, with 59% of expenditures on groceries and 19% on restaurants and bars. The average crypto card transaction is €23.7, lower than the average for bank cards at €33.6.
Increasing Interest in Crypto Cards in Europe
According to a report by CEX.IO, interest in crypto cards continues to grow, with a 15% increase in orders for new crypto cards noted in 2025. Users of crypto cards are conducting 40% of their transactions online, nearly double the average across all cards in Europe.
Banks Impose Restrictions on Crypto Purchases
Despite the rising interest in crypto cards, Barclays has announced plans to ban crypto purchases on their credit cards. The bank cited concerns related to customers falling into unmanageable debt due to the volatility of the cryptocurrency market and the lack of investor protections.
Crypto cards are becoming an essential component of the payment system in Europe, indicating significant changes in consumer habits. However, increasing restrictions from traditional banks may impact the future dynamics of this market.
