1. Louisiana Recognizes the Potential Benefits of Crypto Payments
2. Mercari’s Support for Bitcoin Payments
3. Growing Adoption of Digital Assets

Louisiana, a state in the southern part of the United States, has made history by accepting its first cryptocurrency payment for government services. Residents can now use Bitcoin, the Bitcoin Lightning Network, and USD Coin to pay for various state services.

Louisiana Recognizes the Potential Benefits of Crypto Payments

An interesting case occurred in Louisiana when a resident used the Bitcoin Lightning Network to pay a fine to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. This network allows for faster and cheaper Bitcoin transactions, showing Louisiana's commitment to adopting new technologies and offering more payment options for its residents. Although the state has opened the doors to cryptocurrency payments, it is taking a cautious approach to mitigate the risks associated with digital currency volatility. All crypto payments made for government services will be immediately converted into US dollars. According to Louisiana State Treasurer John Fleming, the conversion ensures the state does not face any fluctuations in the value of these assets.

Mercari’s Support for Bitcoin Payments

Recall that Japan’s e-commerce powerhouse Mercari plans to start accepting Bitcoin payments in June 2024. According to reports, Melcoin, the company's Tokyo-based blockchain subsidiary, will host BTC payments. While prices on Mercari are displayed in Japanese yen, app users can select BTC as a payment option. Melcoin aims to function as a mediator, simplifying the BTC transfer process to the vendor in Japanese yen. It will also levy transaction fees on par with those imposed in transactions carried out using fiat currency.

Growing Adoption of Digital Assets

Crypto stakeholders consider this development noteworthy, given that digital assets are beginning to gain traction in real-world use. As reported, Tesla also commenced accepting Bitcoin payments for its products in March 2021 but later suspended it. Meanwhile, in the broader cryptocurrency space, adoption continues with partnership deals sealed regularly. Recently, the collaboration between Binance and Mastercard makes it possible for users to make cryptocurrency payments and deposits.

Louisiana's decision to accept cryptocurrency payments highlights the growing integration of digital assets in the public sector. This move may encourage other states to consider similar steps.