Crypto Payments Hit Critical Point: 39% of Merchants Accept Crypto, Big Banks Jump In

Jakarta, Pintu News – The use of cryptocurrency as a means of payment is showing significant acceleration in the United States. Crypto is no longer limited to investment and speculation activities, but is starting to enter the realm of everyday transactions. Recent data shows the active involvement of merchants, large banks, and payment infrastructure investors. This combination of factors gives rise to the view that 2026 could be a defining moment for crypto payments.

Merchants Encourage Adoption of Crypto Payments

A survey conducted by PayPal and the National Cryptocurrency Association noted that 39% of merchants in the US already accept crypto payments. Moreover, 84% of merchants believe that crypto payments will become a prevalent payment method in the next five years. High consumer interest is the main driving factor. As many as 88% of merchants admitted that they often receive customer inquiries regarding the use of crypto.

The strongest demand comes from the younger generation. Interest in crypto usage is recorded high among Millennials and Gen Z, especially in small businesses. The tourism and hospitality sectors are the most aggressive in adoption, followed by digital products and retail. This data shows that crypto is starting to be accepted as a practical means of payment, not just a digital asset.

Also read: XRP Depressed in Early 2026, Q1 Was Tough but Q2 Could Be a Turning Point?

Big Banks Get Into Bitcoin

Significant changes are also taking place in the banking sector. About 60% of the 25 largest banks in the US have launched or announced Bitcoin (BTC)-related services, ranging from custody to trading. This move marks a major shift from the previous conservative stance. Demand from institutional investors and high-net-worth clients is the main trigger.

A number of major financial institutions are now actively offering crypto services. The entry of these banks strengthens the legitimacy of cryptocurrencies in the mainstream financial system. Their presence also opens up wider access for traditional investors. Thus, crypto payments receive support not only from retail, but also from large institutions.

Read also: Gold and Silver Hype Overtake Crypto on Social Media, Signaling Retail Investor Interest Rotation?

Payment Infrastructure is the Determinant

The surge in adoption is driving large capital flows into crypto payment infrastructure. Companies like Mesh managed to secure major funding and reach unicorn valuations, signaling investor confidence in the future of the sector. The technology developed enables payments with various cryptos, while merchants receive instant settlement. This approach simplifies the process for both users and businesses.

However, the main challenge still lies in ease of use. The majority of merchants stated that they are ready to accept crypto if the process is as easy as a credit card. Hence, the industry’s focus is now shifting to user experience and seamless integration. A mature infrastructure is key for crypto payments to be adopted en masse.

To conclude, the increasing adoption by merchants, involvement of major banks, and infrastructure investments suggest that crypto payments is approaching a tipping point. Cryptocurrencies are starting to transition from speculative assets to being part of the payment system. While challenges remain, the direction of development is becoming clearer. The year 2026 could potentially be the beginning of a new era of crypto-based payments.

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This content aims to enrich readers’ information. Pintu collects this information from various relevant sources and is not influenced by outside parties. Note that an asset’s past performance does not determine its projected future performance. Crypto trading activities are subject to high risk and volatility, always do your own research and use cold hard cash before investing. All activities of buying and selling Bitcoin and other crypto asset investments are the responsibility of the reader.

Reference:

• BeInCrypto. 39% of Merchants, 60% of Banks: Crypto Payments Hit Tipping Point. Accessed January 29, 2025
• Featured Image: Generated by AI