Strategy Inc. Launches $4.2B Stock Sale Program to Fund Bitcoin Purchases, Operations
Strategy Inc. said Monday it will sell up to $4.2 billion in preferred stock under a newly launched at-the-market (ATM) equity program, according to a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The company plans to issue shares of its 10.00% Series A Perpetual Stride Preferred Stock (STRD) in a phased manner over time. The ATM program allows sales to be conducted directly into the market, depending on prevailing trading prices and volumes. Proceeds Aimed at Bitcoin, General Use Strategy said net proceeds from the offering will be used for a mix of general corporate purposes, including further acquisition of Bitcoin and funding working capital. The funds may also be used to pay dividends to holders of other preferred stock series, including its 10.00% Series A Perpetual Strife Preferred Stock and 8.00% Series A Perpetual Strike Preferred Stock. The stock issuance will be made through agents using methods compliant with SEC Rule 415(a)(4), which governs at-the-market offerings. This could include sales through market transactions, block trades, or other legally permitted methods. Strategy SEC Filing Details ATM Structure According to the company, the offering will be made under an automatic shelf registration statement that became effective Jan. 27, 2025. A prospectus supplement detailing the terms was filed with the SEC on July 7, 2025, and is part of the registration statement (File No. 333-284510). The STRD Stock carries a par value of $0.001 per share and is subject to the terms of the agreement outlined in the prospectus. No timeline has been specified for the completion of the stock sales. Strategy emphasized a disciplined approach to selling the shares over an extended period. The announcement comes amid continued interest from institutional firms in cryptocurrency exposure, particularly through Bitcoin accumulation strategies.
What Can I Buy With Cryptocurrency?
“I believe that by being the first major online retailer to accept Bitcoin, we will tap into a significant group of loyal consumers, and as a result, our share of the overall market will grow.” This was a statement made by the former CEO of Overstock in 2014 when they became the first major U.S. retailer to start accepting Bitcoin as a payment method. At the time, it was a bold move that signaled a shift toward cryptocurrency becoming more than an investment asset. Since then, the list of things you can buy with cryptocurrency has expanded beyond tech gadgets and online gift cards. From groceries to luxury goods, crypto is being used to pay for real-world products and services across global markets. So, what can you buy with cryptocurrency today? Keep reading to find out. Key Takeaways How Do Crypto Payments Work Source: Freepik Crypto payments work by transferring digital assets, such as Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), or stablecoins like USDT, from one wallet to another through a secure, decentralized network known as the blockchain. You don’t use a credit card or bank account when paying cryptocurrency. Instead, you authorize a transaction using your crypto wallet, which generates a unique address. The merchant also provides their wallet address or a QR code. Once you send the funds, the transaction is confirmed and recorded on the blockchain, often within seconds or minutes, depending on the network speed. Because there’s no middleman, fees are often lower than those of traditional payment systems. Crypto payments can be made globally, 24/7, with complete transparency and security. What Can You Buy With Cryptocurrency? Source: Freepik Now that you know that you can buy things with cryptocurrencies, it’s time to walk you through the wide range of products and services you can pay for using crypto. These are: Electronics & Gadgets Source: Freepik Plenty of exciting options exist for those looking to spend their cryptocurrency on electronics and gadgets. From smartphones, laptops, and gaming consoles to drones, smartwatches, and home automation devices, crypto holders can shop for the latest tech using digital currencies. Newegg, a U.S.-based retailer, has accepted Bitcoin since 2014, allowing customers to buy a wide range of electronics via BitPay. Companies like Overstock and FastTech also support crypto payments for various gadgets and accessories. Whether upgrading your home office, building a gaming setup, or buying wearable tech, spending your crypto on cutting-edge electronics is now more convenient than ever. Cars & Vehicles Source: Freepik You have several exciting options if you want to buy a car or vehicle using cryptocurrency. Luxury brands like Lamborghini have long been associated with crypto purchases, thanks to high-net-worth investors spending their gains. Tesla once accepted Bitcoin but later switched to Dogecoin, which it still accepts for select merchandise and possibly future purchases. In 2023, Ferrari joined the crypto movement, announcing that it would accept digital currencies for its vehicles. Beyond high-end cars, platforms like BitCars and AutoCoinCars allow users to buy various vehicles, from sports cars to motorcycles and even boats, using Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies, making the dream of a crypto-funded ride more accessible than ever. Tech and E-commerce Source: Freepik Companies such as Microsoft, Newegg, AT&T, and Rakuten are leading the way in allowing cryptocurrency payments for a wide range of tech and e-commerce products. Whether you’re looking to buy software, gaming consoles, smartphones, or accessories, these platforms offer seamless crypto checkout options. Shopify merchants also enable Bitcoin payments, giving crypto holders access to countless independent online stores. Streaming service Twitch and mobile carriers like AT&T further expand your options by accepting crypto for subscriptions and services. From gadgets to digital tools, the tech and e-commerce space is quickly becoming a crypto-friendly marketplace for modern consumers. Luxury Goods Source: Freepik In some selected locations, such as the U.S. and parts of Europe, cryptocurrency is increasingly being accepted for luxury goods. High-end retailers like BitDials offer luxury watches from brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Hublot in exchange for Bitcoin and other digital currencies. Jewelry enthusiasts can shop at REEDS Jewelers using crypto, while Franck Muller has even launched Bitcoin-themed watches. Fashion giants like Gucci and Ralph Lauren now accept cryptocurrencies in select flagship stores, making it easier for crypto holders to splurge on luxury fashion. From jewelry to designer wear, crypto is steadily making its mark in the luxury market. Software & Subscriptions Source: Freepik Getting something with cryptocurrencies isn’t just limited to physical goods, you can also subscribe to a wide range of digital services. Many popular software providers and platforms now accept crypto payments. For instance, you can pay for VPN services like NordVPN or ProtonVPN to secure your online activity. Crypto payments via platforms like BitPay can also access cloud storage providers and productivity tools, such as Microsoft Office 365. These options make it easy to manage your digital life while spending Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other supported cryptocurrencies. Gift Cards Source: Amazon website You can use cryptocurrency to buy various gift cards that cover everyday needs and popular brands. From Amazon and Uber to iTunes, Netflix, Steam, Airbnb, and even groceries or gaming credits, gift cards are a practical way to spend crypto. Platforms like Bitrefill, Coinsbee, and CryptoRefills make it easy to purchase these cards using Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT, and other major cryptocurrencies. This method offers flexibility, letting you indirectly use crypto at stores and services that don’t yet accept digital currencies directly, all while enjoying instant delivery and global access. E-learning & Courses Source: Freepik Udemy offers thousands of online courses covering topics like programming, business, design, and more, and while it doesn’t directly accept crypto, you can purchase Udemy gift cards through crypto-enabled platforms. BitDegree, a blockchain-based learning platform, accepts multiple cryptocurrencies directly and specializes in tech-focused courses like Web3, AI, and coding. Ordering Food with Crypto Source: Freepik There are now many ways to satisfy your cravings using cryptocurrency. From grabbing a burrito at Chipotle—where over 98 cryptocurrencies are accepted via Flexa—to ordering dinner from
List of E-commerce Sites That Accept Cryptocurrency
Many people, not just cryptocurrency enthusiasts, are now seeking e-commerce sites that accept cryptocurrency. Every day, shoppers are exploring faster, more secure ways to pay online, especially with the rise of Bitcoin, Ethereum, and stablecoins like USDT and USDC. As digital currencies become more mainstream, it’s only natural that e-commerce platforms are beginning to adapt. More online stores now accept crypto, allowing customers to check out using wallets instead of cards. The shift is becoming noticeable across major and niche retailers, from electronics and fashion to travel and digital services. You’re not alone if you’re searching for where to spend your crypto safely and seamlessly. This updated list of e-commerce sites that accept cryptocurrency is exactly what you need. Key Takeaways What is Cryptocurrency Payment? Source: Freepik A cryptocurrency payment is a digital transaction in which goods or services are exchanged using cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), USDT, or other digital coins instead of traditional money like dollars or euros. These payments are made through blockchain networks, which record and verify each transaction securely and transparently without the need for a central authority like a bank. To make a cryptocurrency payment, a customer uses a crypto wallet to send the exact amount of digital currency to the seller’s wallet address. Some e-commerce sites use third-party payment gateways (like BitPay or Coinbase Commerce) to process crypto transactions and convert them instantly into fiat currency. Crypto payments are typically faster, borderless, and offer lower fees than traditional payment methods. Top E-commerce Sites That Accept Cryptocurrency Here’s a comprehensive look at major e-commerce platforms and retailers that accept cryptocurrency payments as of 2025: E-commerce Platforms 1. Shopify Shopify, a leading e-commerce platform based in Canada, enables merchants to accept cryptocurrency payments by integrating third-party payment gateways such as BitPay and Coinbase Commerce. This feature allows store owners to offer customers the option to pay with various cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and stablecoins like USDC. Merchants can enable these options through the Payments settings in their Shopify admin panel. 2. WooCommerce WooCommerce, an open-source e-commerce plugin for WordPress, allows online store owners to accept cryptocurrency payments by installing extensions like Confirmo or Helio Pay. These integrations support a range of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin, providing customers with alternative payment options. 3. Magento Magento, Adobe’s enterprise e-commerce platform, offers robust cryptocurrency payment integration through multiple specialized extensions and payment gateways. The platform supports comprehensive crypto payment solutions through providers like NOWPayments, CoinGate, Cryptomus, Webkul, and CoinRemitter. These integrations enable merchants to accept an extensive variety of cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Solana, USDC, and numerous altcoins. Advanced features include automatic price conversion, multi-currency support, detailed transaction reporting, and seamless integration with Magento’s existing order management system. The Magento 2 Bitcoin and Crypto Payments extensions typically offer features such as real-time exchange rate updates, customizable payment confirmation requirements, automated refund processing, and comprehensive admin dashboards for transaction monitoring. Installation involves downloading the extension from Adobe Commerce Marketplace or third-party providers, configuring API credentials, setting up webhook endpoints for payment notifications, and customizing the checkout flow. Many providers offer detailed documentation and technical support to ensure smooth integration with existing Magento installations. Major Retailers 4. Overstock Overstock, a U.S.-based online retailer specializing in home goods such as furniture, rugs, decor & lighting, etc. became one of the first major retailers to accept Bitcoin in January 2014. The company partnered with Coinbase to facilitate these transactions and has since expanded its acceptance to multiple cryptocurrencies. Overstock’s early adoption of crypto payments reflects its commitment to embracing blockchain technology. 5. PayPal PayPal is a global online payment system headquartered in the U.S. and introduced cryptocurrency services in 2020. Users can buy, sell, and hold cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and Bitcoin Cash within their PayPal accounts. Additionally, PayPal allows users to use their crypto holdings to pay millions of merchants by converting crypto to fiat currency during the transaction process. 6. AT&T In May 2019, AT&T, a major U.S. telecommunications company, became the first mobile carrier to accept cryptocurrency payments. Customers can pay their bills online using Bitcoin through a partnership with BitPay, reflecting AT&T’s initiative to offer flexible payment options. 7. Starbucks The global coffeehouse chain, headquartered in Seattle, has integrated cryptocurrency payments through partnerships with platforms like iPayYou and Bakkt. These integrations allow customers to pay for their purchases using Bitcoin, with the crypto converted to fiat currency in real-time during the transaction. 8. Home Depot Home Depot is a leading U.S. home improvement retailer that accepts Bitcoin payments through the Flexa network’s SPEDN app. This integration enables customers to use cryptocurrency for in-store purchases, with the payment converted to U.S. dollars at the point of sale. 9. Whole Foods Whole Foods Market is an American supermarket chain owned by Amazon. They accept Bitcoin payments through the SPEDN app developed by Flexa. This allows customers to pay for groceries using cryptocurrency, which is seamlessly converted to fiat currency during the transaction. 10. Newegg Newegg, a U.S.-based online retailer specializing in electronics, started accepting Bitcoin payments in July 2014. Customers can select Bitcoin as a payment option during checkout, with transactions processed through BitPay. 11. Purse.io Purse.io is an online platform that connects users wishing to spend Bitcoin with individuals who have Amazon gift cards. Shoppers can create wish lists from Amazon and pay with Bitcoin, often receiving discounts, while “earners” purchase the items using their gift cards and receive Bitcoin in return. Specialized Services 12. ExpressVPN ExpressVPN, a virtual private network service provider based in the British Virgin Islands, has accepted Bitcoin payments since June 2014. Through BitPay, customers can subscribe to the service using various cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, and stablecoins like USDC and BUSD. 13. The Internet Archive They are a non-profit digital library in San Francisco that accepts Bitcoin donations to support its mission of providing free access to digital content. The organization has embraced cryptocurrency as a means of funding since 2011. 14. Planet Express Planet Express is
Slippage in Crypto Trading: What It Is, and How to Avoid Costly Mistakes
If you’ve ever placed a trade in the crypto market and noticed that the price you actually got wasn’t quite what you expected, congratulations, you just encountered slippage. Slippage is one of those hidden realities of crypto trading that catches many beginners off guard. It refers to the difference between the price you intended to execute a trade at and the price at which it was actually filled. Imagine you’re trying to buy Bitcoin at $60,000. You hit “Buy,” but by the time your order is executed, the price has jumped to $60,200. That $200 difference? That’s slippage. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about slippage in crypto trading, what causes it, how it affects your trades, and most importantly, what you can do to protect yourself from its worst effects. Key Takeaways What is Slippage? Slippage occurs when there’s a mismatch between the expected price of a trade and the actual execution price. A rise or fall on the expected price of a trade might occur leading to profit or loss. In formal terms, it is known as positive slippage or negative slippage. Centralized Exchanges (CEXs) Centralized exchanges (CEXs) are platforms managed by a central authority or company that facilitates the buying, selling, and trading of cryptocurrencies. These platforms act as intermediaries, providing custodial services, user interfaces, and robust trading infrastructures. On centralized exchanges (CEXs), the primary causes include: Major examples of centralized exchanges are Bybit, Binance, and UEEx. UEEx is a centralized cryptocurrency exchange (CEX) that offers users a platform to trade various digital assets. As a CEX, UEEx operates under a centralized authority, managing user accounts, order books, and transaction processing. This structure provides users with a user-friendly interface, high liquidity, and customer support services. Decentralized Exchanges (DEXs) Decentralized exchanges (DEXs) allow users to trade crypto assets directly from their wallets without intermediaries. These platforms run on blockchain technology and rely on smart contracts to execute trades. On decentralized exchanges (DEXs) like Uniswap or PancakeSwap, slippage is more common due to: In short, CEX slippage is often due to market depth and speed, while DEX slippage is tied to liquidity pool mechanics and blockchain transaction delays. Types of Slippages in Crypto Trading In crypto trading, not all slippage is bad. While it’s often seen as a negative experience, slippage can work for or against you depending on market conditions. Let’s break it down into two main types: Positive Slippage This occurs when your trade is executed at a better price than expected. For example, you place an order for Ethereum at $3,000. By the time your order is filled, the price has dropped to $2,990. You’ve just received a positive slippage. You bought for $10 less per coin than you intended. The same can happen on the sell side selling at a higher price than expected. Real life examples of this type of slippage are: 1. The Ethereum Merge (September 2022): The Ethereum network transitioned from Proof-of-Work to Proof-of-Stake. Leading up to the merge, ETH saw increased speculative buying. Some limit buy orders were filled during fast-moving price swings at prices below the limit price, especially on decentralized exchanges with high liquidity pools (like Uniswap). 2. Dogecoin Pumps (Early 2021 – Elon Musk Tweets) Elon Musk tweeted favorably about Dogecoin multiple times. Traders like Stratton Oakmont, Jonathan Lebed, and Enron who placed buy orders in anticipation of pump behavior had orders executed at prices better than what they saw quoted, particularly when large market makers stepped in, or order books quickly adjusted. Note: According to wikipedia, a Pump and dump (P&D) is a form of securities fraud that involves artificially inflating the price of an owned stock through false and misleading positive statements (pump), in order to sell the cheaply purchased stock at a higher price (dump). To wrap it up, positive slippage usually occurs in fast-moving markets where prices are fluctuating in your favor, or when there’s unexpected liquidity at a better price. This type of slippage increases your profit potential and is usually seen as a bonus. Negative Slippage Frustrating yet common, this is another type of slippage that can be experienced in the crypto world. Opposite to positive slippage, it happens when your order is executed at a worse price than expected. A good example is when you place a buy order for Bitcoin at $60,000. But by the time it’s executed, the price has jumped to $60,300. That extra $300 per coin is negative slippage, meaning you spent more than you intended. It’s a loss. Negative slippage typically occurs during periods of high volatility, when large price swings happen in seconds, or when liquidity is low and your order can’t be filled at the desired price. Negative slippage also means the difference between the expected executed price of an order, and the price at which the order is actually executed at. In this case the order executes at a worse price. Real life examples of negative slippage include: 1. LUNA/UST Crash (May 2022) The Terra ecosystem collapsed after UST lost its peg to the dollar, leading to its unprecedented demand of a blockchain ecosystem and cost inventors tens of billions of dollars. This concurrently led to extremely low liquidity and overwhelming sell pressure causing huge negative slippage especially on decentralized exchanges like Curve or TerraSwap. 2. The FTX Collapse (November 2022) According to bloomberg, news of insolvency and bankruptcy at FTX led to mass withdrawals and fear. FTX filed for bankruptcy in November 2022 after its co-founder, Sam Bankman-Fried, shut down the company’s platform and handed control to insolvency experts. Bankman-Fried was later convicted of fraud. Users trying to sell FTT or other tokens on FTX (or on-chain assets connected to it) had their orders executed at significantly worse prices due to a sudden drain in liquidity and order book gaps. Strategies To Minimize or Avoid Slippage While slippage is a natural part of trading, especially in volatile markets like crypto, there are smart ways to minimize