What Types of Businesses Can Benefit from a Cryptocurrency Payment Processor?

Cryptocurrencies, once considered a niche technology for enthusiasts, are captivating global attention and making their mark on the business landscape today. As their adoption grows, with traditional institutions starting to pour funds into crypto after the approval of spot Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs this year, a new frontier of payment processing is developing — one that offers businesses an abundance of opportunities.

This article will explore the types of businesses that truly benefit from incorporating cryptocurrency payment processing into their operations.

The Rise of Crypto-Friendly Businesses

The increasing number of companies accepting crypto payments reflects a growing trend of mainstream adoption. According to a recent study by CoinLedger, the retail and e-commerce sector leads the way, with 76 major companies embracing this approach. A close second is the food and dining sector, with 72 companies, followed by the travel and hospitality sector, with 38 companies.

What’s driving this shift? Businesses are recognising the numerous benefits that cryptocurrencies offer, from reduced transaction fees and increased security to global accessibility and faster settlement times. The ability to transact seamlessly across borders without the constraints of traditional payment methods has become a game-changer for many organisations, prompting them to adopt crypto payment solutions.

Cryptocurrency Payments in Retail and E-Commerce

E-commerce businesses are a natural fit for accepting crypto. Online retailers often cater to a global customer base and can benefit from the reduced transaction fees and accelerated settlement times that digital assets provide. By offering this payment option, e-commerce companies can attract tech-savvy consumers who prefer the convenience and privacy of digital currencies.

Moreover, the fact that cryptocurrencies are decentralised can help e-commerce stores reach more people, tapping into markets that may have limited access to conventional financial services. This global accessibility opens up new revenue streams and diversifies the customer base.

Retail is the biggest category of businesses accepting crypto payments, with players such as Adidas, H&M, GameStop, and many others jumping on the bandwagon. It is evident that cryptocurrencies are not a passing trend but an emerging form of payment that companies need to keep up with in order to remain competitive.

Luxury Brands Follow the Lead

Luxury retail, in particular, has seen a significant increase in crypto adoption. High-end brands like Gucci and Hublot have started collaborating with companies like BitPay, a blockchain payment processor, to process crypto payments on their behalf.

For a luxury brand, collaborating with a crypto payment system can be a differentiating factor, attracting tech-savvy, high-net-worth individuals who appreciate the convenience and exclusivity of this payment method.

Cryptocurrency in the Food Sector

The food and dining sector is another industry that has quickly embraced cryptocurrency payments. This makes sense, as the use of digital currencies aligns with the fast-paced lifestyle and convenience that consumers seek when ordering food.

Major players in this space include popular restaurant chains like Chipotle and Domino’s Pizza. Furthermore, delivery services such as DoorDash and Uber Eats now also accept blockchain payments, making it easier for consumers to make contactless transactions.

Crypto and the Tourism Sector

With international travel becoming more accessible, tourists seek alternative payment methods that offer security and convenience. Cryptocurrencies fit the bill perfectly, providing a seamless way to pay without the hassle of currency conversions or high transaction fees.

From airlines like Norwegian Air to cruise companies like Royal Caribbean, more and more businesses in this niche have started to accept crypto payments as a business. Hotels and vacation rental platforms are also joining the trend. The Chedi Andermatt in Switzerland, Casual Hoteles in Spain and Portugal and The Kessler Collection in the US are just several examples of luxury hotel chains that have added crypto transactions for their guests.

Crypto Processing in the Non-Profit and Charity Sector

If you are a non-profit organisation or charity, you can also benefit from integrating a top cryptocurrency payment processor. Global accessibility and reduced transaction fees for digital currencies can make it easier for donors to contribute, especially those located in different countries. Additionally, the transparent and immutable blockchain technology can improve trust and accountability, as donors can verify the flow of their contributions.

Some notable organisations that receive cryptocurrency donations include the American Red Cross, the American Cancer Society, and the Electronic Frontier Foundation. Supporters of these causes can now conveniently contribute using their preferred digital currency, making it easier for them to give back.

Digital Assets in the Tech, Gaming and Software Industries

The technology and software sector is well-positioned to embrace crypto. Businesses can demonstrate their commitment to emerging technologies by offering customers the option to pay with digital currencies. Giants like Microsoft and Spotify already accept payments in Bitcoin for their offerings.

Other companies, such as AtlusHost and Newegg, have also joined the list of businesses which collaborate with Bitcoin payment gateway solutions to offer clients the option to pay with digital assets. 

Moreover, the gaming and software industries embrace cryptocurrency transactions, recognising the variety they can bring to in-game economies and monetisation strategies. Integrating a payment processor for cryptocurrency into your gaming platform or store will give players more options in terms of payment methods.

Automotive Industry Embraces Cryptocurrencies

The automotive industry explores the potential of digital assets in several ways. In 2023, Ducati, a world-renowned motorcycle manufacturer, entered the world of web3 by announcing the issuance of the NFT collection on XRP Ledger. Moreover, the company started accepting cryptocurrency payments in June 2024.

But it’s not just luxury vehicles that are getting involved in the crypto space. Chevron is one of the first gas station chains to accept cryptocurrency payments through its mobile app. Customers can use the Chevron or Texaco app to purchase gift cards and then redeem them at participating Chevron or Texaco locations.

Some car dealerships, such as Exclusive Automotive Group, also allow customers to purchase vehicles using crypto assets. This forward-thinking approach caters to the demand for alternative payment methods and distinguishes these businesses from their competitors.

Blockchain and the Real Estate Sector

The real estate industry has been an early adopter of cryptocurrency payments, with the ability to purchase properties, apartments, and even palaces using digital currencies. In 2021, Magnum Real Estate accepted a $29 million payment for a three-store retail condominium space in Bitcoin.

Today, crypto-friendly real estate companies are making it easier for buyers to transact using digital currencies. For instance, Guardian Title Agency, Title Partners and Guaranty Escrow are among the insurance and real estate agencies in the US to enable buyers to convert and transfer cryptocurrency funds for real estate transactions seamlessly.

By embracing crypto payments, real estate businesses can serve a growing segment of tech-savvy investors and homebuyers who prefer the convenience and flexibility of digital currencies.

Crypto and Finance

The rise of cryptocurrency has also impacted the financial sector, with more and more traditional institutions incorporating digital assets into their offerings. Brokers are no exception, as they seek to provide a comprehensive range of investment options for their clients.

Today, the market is flooded with cryptocurrency brokers and exchanges, offering users the ability to trade digital assets for traditional currencies or other cryptocurrencies. These platforms require a reliable and efficient payment processor to facilitate transactions for their users.

Moreover, other financial institutions are also exploring the potential of blockchain. Some crypto-friendly banks have started offering crypto custodial services, allowing clients to store their digital assets with a trusted institution securely.

How to Accept Crypto with a Blockchain Payment System

If your business aims to venture into cryptocurrency payments, here are 7 recommended steps for seamless and secure integration:

1. Select a reputable payment processor that supports the cryptocurrencies you wish to accept and offers features such as invoicing, settlement in fiat currency, and robust security measures.
2. Evaluate the popularity, liquidity, and user adoption of various cryptocurrencies to determine which ones to accept. Consider including major coins like BTC and ETH, as well as stablecoins and emerging payment-focused digital assets.
3. Integrate the cryptocurrency payment processor with your website, point-of-sale system, or other relevant platforms to provide customers with a smooth and intuitive payment experience.
4. Set up a secure Bitcoin merchant account and cryptocurrency wallet to receive and store payments. Use cold wallets for secure storage or a combination of hot and cold variants, depending on your business needs and risk tolerance.
5. Ensure that your employees are well-versed in the basics of blockchain and crypto processing.
6. Ensure your operations adhere to all relevant laws and regulations, including anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) requirements.
7. Monitor cryptocurrency transactions, reconcile them with your accounting systems, and regularly audit your payment infrastructure to maintain accuracy and security.

Conclusion

Today, the integration of crypto payments is a practical reality for many businesses across various industries. From e-commerce giants to high-risk sectors, international enterprises to tech-savvy startups, the benefits of embracing digital currencies are becoming increasingly apparent.

Ultimately, the decision to collaborate with a crypto payment provider should be based on a thorough understanding of your business’s specific needs and circumstances.