The adoption of crypto-native payment cards has reached a significant inflection point, with daily transactions skyrocketing 22 times since December 2024. By mid-January 2026, these cards are processing nearly 60,000 transactions per day, translating to a daily USD volume of approximately $4 million.
These cards function by automatically converting a user's cryptocurrency holdings into fiat currency at the point of sale. This mechanism enables seamless spending at traditional merchants that accept Visa or Mastercard, effectively streamlining the off-ramp process and allowing users to maintain exposure to their digital assets until the exact moment of purchase.
The competitive landscape is led by Etherfi, which currently commands roughly half of all transactions. Other notable providers include Gnosis, MetaMask, Solayer, Tria, Holyheld, and Ready. The sector's growth is underscored by cumulative figures: more than 7.3 million transactions have been processed, with total spending exceeding $804 million, supported by close to 150,000 active users.
Card issuers are differentiating themselves through varied economic models, incentive structures, and features. A key appeal is the integration of DeFi yields, where user balances can earn returns through lending protocols and other on-chain sources, offering a form of passive income alongside spending flexibility. Many cards also offer cashback rewards and reduced fees for international transactions.
The data reveals specific blockchain adoption, with Solana emerging as a key network for these services. Cards built on Solana have been used by over 20,000 individuals, resulting in close to 385,000 transactions and over $40 million in total purchases, demonstrating the network's capability to handle efficient, low-cost payment demand.
The rapid growth signifies a broader trend of cryptocurrencies being treated as "actual money" for everyday commerce, rather than merely speculative assets. The dominance of Visa and Mastercard infrastructure in this space highlights how traditional payment giants are establishing a crucial bridge between decentralized finance and mainstream commerce.
