Visa Crypto Card Spending Surges 525% as Stablecoin Use Hits Record Highs

2026-01-09
Visa Crypto Card Spending Surges 525% as Stablecoin Use Hits Record Highs

Visa-issued crypto cards experienced a dramatic 525% increase in transaction volume throughout 2025. Data from Dune Analytics reveals that net spending climbed from $14.6 million in January to $91.3 million by December.

The sharp rise in volume reflects a significant shift from speculative digital asset trading to real-world utility. This transition is largely driven by the integration of stablecoins, which allow users to spend crypto without the volatility of traditional tokens.

Key Takeaways

  1. Net spending on Visa crypto cards grew 525% in 2025, reaching $91.3 million monthly.
  2. EtherFi dominated the market share with $55.4 million in total net spend for the year.
  3. Stablecoins now serve as the primary funding source for nearly 100% of crypto card collateral.

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Visa Leading Platforms in the Crypto Card Sector

EtherFi emerged as the market leader in 2025, significantly outperforming competitors with $55.4 million in annual spending. The decentralized finance project partnered with Visa to offer users the ability to spend against staked Ethereum rewards.

Cypher secured the second position with $20.5 million in spending, while GnosisPay and Avici Money also reported consistent growth. These platforms focus on self-custodial solutions that allow users to maintain control of their assets while accessing the Visa global merchant network.

The success of these platforms indicates that consumers are increasingly comfortable using blockchain-native tools for daily shopping. Analysts suggest that the ease of instant crypto-to-fiat conversion at the point of sale is the primary driver for this adoption.

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Read more: MCO Visa Card – When Crypto Meet Life, You Should Try

The Impact of Stablecoin Infrastructure on 2026

Visa has intensified its focus on stablecoin-based products by supporting assets across four major blockchains. The launch of a dedicated stablecoins advisory team in late 2025 further signals the company's commitment to building digital finance rails.

Mastercard is also expanding its footprint through strategic alliances with Thunes and Circle to enable near real-time stablecoin payouts. Regulatory clarity from the GENIUS Act in the United States and MiCA in Europe has provided the necessary frameworks for this institutional expansion.

As these payment giants upgrade their infrastructure, 2026 is expected to see a broader normalization of on-chain spending. The movement toward 24/7 settlement and lower transaction fees makes stablecoins a viable alternative to traditional credit card networks.

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Conclusion

The massive growth in Visa crypto card spending confirms that digital assets have matured into functional tools for everyday finance. With EtherFi leading the way and stablecoins providing a stable foundation, the barrier between crypto and commerce is fading.

As 2026 progresses, the continued integration of blockchain technology into traditional payment systems will likely drive further transaction records. The focus has officially shifted from holding digital assets to utilizing them in the global economy.

FAQ

What caused the 525% surge in Visa crypto card spending?

The surge was driven by increased consumer trust in stablecoins and the convenience of using crypto for everyday purchases like food and travel.

Which crypto card had the highest spending in 2025?

EtherFi led the market with $55.4 million in total spending, followed by Cypher with $20.5 million.

How do stablecoins improve crypto payments?

Stablecoins eliminate the price volatility of assets like Bitcoin, making them ideal for predictable, real-time fiat conversion at checkout.

Is Mastercard also launching crypto payment features?

Yes, Mastercard is expanding its stablecoin settlement capabilities through partnerships with Circle and MetaMask to compete in the digital payment space.

Will crypto cards become more common in 2026?

Analysts expect continued growth in 2026 as more retailers and banks adopt stablecoin settlement rails and regulatory frameworks become clearer globally.

Disclaimer: The content of this article does not constitute financial or investment advice.

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