Alchemy Pay Virtual Card Review: Spend Crypto Anywhere with Ease + Top 5 Alternatives
For many crypto holders, the real challenge is not buying or storing digital assets but using them in everyday life. While exchanges make trading simple, paying for essentials like groceries, subscriptions, or travel often requires traditional banking systems. Virtual crypto cards are designed to solve this problem by converting digital assets into fiat instantly at checkout, letting users pay merchants who may not directly accept crypto. As global crypto adoption grows, these cards are becoming an important bridge between digital wallets and real-world payments. In this Alchemy Pay Virtual Card review, we’ll cover its features, fees, pros and cons, and usability, while also comparing it to popular alternatives such as Crypto.com, Binance, Wirex, BitPay, and Revolut. By the end, you’ll know whether it’s the right choice for your needs. We’ll also briefly look at UEEx, a digital trading platform that connects users to crypto markets and payment solutions, providing a wider view of how platforms like these are shaping global transactions. Key Takeaways What is Alchemy Pay? The Alchemy Pay Virtual Card is a crypto-linked payment card that allows users to convert and spend digital assets as fiat currency in real time. Classified as a virtual debit card, it operates through Visa and Mastercard networks, making it widely accepted at both online and offline merchants. Instead of holding a physical card, users receive digital credentials that can be added to mobile wallets such as Google Pay, Apple Pay, and Samsung Pay for tap-to-pay convenience. The card is issued by Alchemy Pay, a Singapore-based payment solutions company founded in 2018. Alchemy Pay specializes in bridging traditional finance and blockchain payments through fiat-crypto on-ramps, off-ramps, and cross-border settlement services. The company partners with licensed financial institutions and global card networks to ensure compliance and secure transactions. It has expanded rapidly, securing licenses in multiple regions, which enables it to offer regulated payment services worldwide. Alchemy Pay’s virtual card is targeted at crypto users who want to spend their digital assets easily without converting them manually on exchanges. It is designed for everyday users who shop online, pay subscriptions, or travel internationally, as well as professionals and traders looking for a reliable way to access liquidity without withdrawing funds through banks. The card especially appeals to users in regions where access to traditional banking may be limited, offering them a tool to participate in global commerce. Compared to traditional debit or credit cards, the Alchemy Pay Virtual Card stands out because it does not rely on a linked bank account. Instead, users top up their card with supported cryptocurrencies such as USDT, USDC, BTC, or ETH. When a payment is made, the crypto is instantly converted into the merchant’s local currency. This model eliminates friction and makes it possible to use crypto for daily transactions without merchant-side integration. Technologically, the card is powered by Alchemy Pay’s hybrid payment gateway that connects blockchain infrastructure with existing card networks. It integrates secure identity verification, encrypted card credentials, and instant settlement processes to ensure a smooth experience. Availability extends to over 170 countries, though restrictions apply in certain jurisdictions due to regulatory compliance. Users in supported regions can complete KYC verification, issue a card, and begin spending globally within minutes. Quick Facts Table Data Point Details Card Network Visa / Mastercard (region-dependent) Annual Fee None APR Range Not applicable (debit card, not credit) Welcome Offer None at present Rewards Rate No cashback or rewards program (ACH token staking may reduce fees) Foreign Transaction Fees None beyond crypto-to-fiat conversion fees (~0.5% average) Credit Check Required No Personal Guarantee Required No Minimum Requirements Account with Alchemy Pay, completed KYC verification, supported region Application Timeline Instant issuance upon successful KYC (card can be added to the wallet immediately) Key Features of the Alchemy Pay Virtual Card The Alchemy Pay Virtual Card brings together crypto and everyday spending with a range of flexible features. Core Features of Alchemy Pay Virtual Card Here are the major features of the Alchemy Pay Virtual Card that highlight its role in connecting crypto to global spending. 1. Multi-Currency Support The Alchemy Pay Virtual Card can be funded with leading cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT, and USDC. These are instantly converted to fiat at checkout, letting users pay merchants in their local currency. This saves time and eliminates the need for manual exchange on a separate platform. This feature is especially useful for travelers or international shoppers. For example, if you top up your card with USDT and shop online at a European store, the system automatically converts your balance into euros during payment. The merchant receives euros while you spend your crypto seamlessly. It also ensures users are not limited to one specific asset. The card accommodates a wide range of portfolios, giving flexibility for those who hold different assets by supporting multiple major coins and stablecoins. 2. Global Merchant Acceptance By operating on Visa and Mastercard networks, the virtual card is accepted worldwide. This means you can use it anywhere these networks are recognized, including millions of online stores and physical retailers. This global reach makes it easy to use crypto in everyday life. Whether you’re subscribing to Netflix, shopping on Amazon, or buying groceries at a local store, the process feels the same as using a traditional bank card. Because merchants don’t need to adopt crypto themselves, the card works universally. Alchemy Pay handles the conversion on the backend, so businesses simply receive their usual fiat currency without any additional setup. 3. Wallet Compatibility The card integrates with Google Pay, Apple Pay, and Samsung Pay. Users can add their virtual card to these wallets and pay contactlessly at checkout. This makes the experience smooth and convenient. For example, if you are commuting, you can pay with your phone by tapping it on the transit system terminal, just like any other contactless card. This also removes the need for a physical card. As long as your phone is with you, you can access your crypto balance and pay securely. 4. Instant Issuance
Crypto.com Visa Card Review: Cashback and Perks Explained + 7 Better Options
Using crypto for everyday spending has always been a challenge. While digital assets are growing in adoption, most people still face hurdles when trying to use them for groceries, online shopping, or travel. Traditional financial systems are not fully integrated with crypto yet, leaving a gap for solutions that connect digital assets with real-world payments. That is where crypto debit and prepaid cards come in. With global crypto ownership estimated at over 560 million people in 2024, demand for practical tools to spend crypto continues to rise. Crypto-backed cards solve this by converting digital currencies into fiat at the point of sale, making it easier for users to tap, swipe, and spend as they would with any other bank card. The Crypto.com Visa Card is one of the most recognized products in this category. It offers multiple tiers tied to CRO staking, with cashback rewards, subscription rebates, and travel perks. Unlike many traditional credit cards, it charges no annual fees, and its global availability makes it a popular choice among crypto users who want both flexibility and rewards. In this review, we will cover the card’s features, fees, pros and cons, supported countries, and staking requirements. We will also compare it with other leading options in the market, so you can see whether it is the right fit for your needs. Alongside Crypto.com, we will also touch on UEEx, a platform focused on simplifying cross-border payments and enhancing global crypto accessibility. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of how the Crypto.com Visa Card works, where it stands against alternatives, and whether it deserves a place in your wallet. Key takeaways What is the Crypto.com Visa Card? The Crypto.com Visa Card is a prepaid debit card that allows users to spend cryptocurrency like traditional money anywhere Visa is accepted. Unlike a credit card, it does not extend credit but instead requires users to load funds in advance. These funds can come from fiat top-ups or by converting crypto within the Crypto.com app. The card is available in both physical and virtual formats, making it versatile for in-store payments, online shopping, and mobile wallet use. The card is issued by Crypto.com, a global financial services company founded in 2016 and headquartered in Singapore. Crypto.com has grown into one of the largest crypto platforms, serving over 80 million users worldwide. Beyond the card, its ecosystem includes an exchange, DeFi wallet, NFT marketplace, and the Cronos blockchain. The Visa Card is a flagship product in this ecosystem, designed to connect everyday spending with digital asset ownership. The target audience for the Crypto.com Visa Card is crypto users who want to put their assets to work in daily life. It appeals especially to people who are already invested in CRO, the native token of Crypto.com, since staking CRO unlocks higher rewards and perks. Travelers, subscription-heavy users, and those seeking cashback benefits are among the key demographics. For beginners, the free Midnight Blue tier provides a simple entry point with no staking requirement. The card differs from traditional debit and credit cards in two important ways. First, rewards are paid in CRO tokens rather than fiat cashback or points. Second, many perks, such as higher cashback or rebates for services like Spotify and Netflix, require CRO staking. This design links the user experience directly to the performance and utility of Crypto.com’s ecosystem, something not seen in traditional banking products. The Crypto.com Visa Card is currently available in multiple regions, including the U.S., Canada, EU, U.K., Singapore, Australia, and selected countries in Asia and Latin America. It is not yet supported in most of Africa, China, or sanctioned jurisdictions. Despite these regional limits, its coverage remains one of the broadest among crypto debit cards, helping position it as a leading option in the market today. Quick Facts of Crypto.com Visa Card To help you decide faster, here is a summary table highlighting the core specifications of the Crypto.com Visa Card. Features Details Card Network Visa Annual Fee None APR Range Not applicable (prepaid debit card, not a credit card) Welcome Offer None; rewards unlocked via CRO staking Rewards Rate 0%–5% cashback in CRO (tier-based) Foreign Transaction Fees None (uses interbank exchange rates up to tier-specific limits) Credit Check Required No Personal Guarantee Required No Minimum Requirements KYC verification; CRO staking required for higher tiers Application Timeline Virtual card issued instantly; physical card delivered in 7–14 business days Key Features of Crypto.com Visa Card To understand the card’s real value, it helps to look closely at its core features and how they work in practice. Core Features The Crypto.com Visa Card offers a range of core features designed to make crypto spending practical and rewarding. First, it provides cashback rewards in CRO, ranging from 0% to 5% depending on the staking tier. This positions it as a flexible rewards card for crypto users. Second, the card charges no annual fee, which lowers the barrier to entry compared to many traditional rewards cards. Third, it offers subscription rebates for platforms like Spotify, Netflix, and Amazon Prime at selected tiers, allowing users to offset common monthly expenses. Another core feature is its travel benefits, including access to airport lounges and discounts with partners like Expedia and Airbnb at higher tiers. The card also provides free ATM withdrawals up to tier-specific limits, after which a small fee applies. Additionally, all cardholders benefit from interbank exchange rates for foreign currency transactions up to certain thresholds. Together, these features make the card suitable for everyday use, subscriptions, and travel. Rewards Program The rewards structure is one of the main draws of the Crypto.com Visa Card. Cashback is paid out in CRO, the platform’s native token, and is credited instantly after each purchase. The rate varies by tier: the free Midnight Blue offers no cashback, Ruby Steel provides 1%, Royal Indigo and Jade Green offer 2%, Icy White and Frosted Rose Gold reach 3%, and Obsidian tops out at 5%. Each tier also has a monthly cap for
Embily Card Review: Spend Crypto Anywhere with Visa + 8 Better Alternatives
Spending cryptocurrency in daily life remains a hurdle for many users. While millions now hold Bitcoin, Ethereum, and stablecoins, most still need to convert them through exchanges before they can buy essentials or pay bills. This process takes time, often comes with extra fees, and limits the usefulness of digital assets for everyday spending. Crypto payment cards are designed to solve this problem. These cards make it possible to pay at the same checkout terminals where traditional bank cards are accepted by linking digital wallets to Visa or Mastercard networks. The competition in this space has grown quickly, with providers differentiating themselves through lower fees, wider currency support, and additional features like rewards or business tools. The Embily Card positions itself as a straightforward bridge between crypto and euros. Available to residents in the European Economic Area and the UK, it allows users to top up with leading cryptocurrencies and instantly convert them into fiat for global spending. The card is offered in both physical and virtual forms, integrates with Apple Pay and Google Pay, and comes with SEPA and IBAN support for easier transfers. On paper, it covers the key essentials for anyone who wants to spend crypto without complications. However, Embily’s offering also has clear limits. It only supports euro balances, applies standard conversion and FX fees, and does not offer cashback or loyalty rewards. For some users, especially traders or frequent travelers, these restrictions may be enough to look for alternatives. This review takes a close look at the Embily Card covering features, fees, limits, security, and usability while also comparing it to 8 alternative crypto cards available. At the end, you will have a clear view of whether Embily meets your needs or if another provider offers better value for your crypto spending. Key Takeaways What Is the Embily Card? The Embily affiliate program is designed to help users earn rewards by promoting the Embily Card and its related services. At its core, the program follows a referral-style model rather than a traditional affiliate network setup. Affiliates earn bonuses when new users sign up, activate a card, and begin using it for top-ups. This structure makes it a performance-based system where commissions are tied directly to user actions rather than impressions or clicks. Embily itself is a regulated fintech company based in Estonia, operating under European Union financial standards. The platform issues crypto-enabled Visa cards, available in both physical and virtual formats, that allow users to convert digital assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and stablecoins into euros for everyday spending. As part of its growth strategy, Embily launched its affiliate program to reward existing customers and content creators who bring new cardholders to the platform. The company has gained visibility in the crypto payments space by offering IBAN accounts, SEPA transfers, and services for both individuals and businesses. The program is best suited for crypto-focused content creators, bloggers, and communities with an audience interested in crypto cards and everyday crypto spending solutions. Since the commissions are tied to successful card activations and top-ups, affiliates who educate their readers about the benefits of crypto cards stand to benefit the most. Unlike referral programs that often offer a one-time bonus, Embily’s structure allows affiliates to earn not only on initial activations but also a percentage of ongoing top-ups, making it more attractive for long-term income. Unlike traditional affiliate programs integrated into networks like Impact or ShareASale, Embily manages its program in-house. This means affiliates apply directly through the platform rather than working through third-party affiliate marketplaces. While this limits visibility compared to programs listed on global affiliate networks, it also means Embily can tailor rewards more closely to cardholder activity. Currently, the Embily affiliate program is only available in regions where the card itself can be issued, primarily the European Economic Area and the United Kingdom. Affiliates targeting audiences in North America, Africa, or Asia may face challenges since users in those regions cannot yet order cards, although wallet services remain accessible. The earning mechanism is straightforward. Affiliates receive fixed bonuses when referrals activate their cards, such as €25 for physical card activations and €15 for virtual card activations. In addition, affiliates earn a lifetime commission of 0.1% on all future crypto top-ups made by their referrals. For example, if a referred user loads €1,000 worth of Bitcoin into their Embily Card, the affiliate earns €1 from that single transaction. Over time, this recurring structure can build into a steady income stream, especially if the affiliate reaches users who regularly spend crypto through Embily. In summary, the Embily affiliate program provides a hybrid between referral bonuses and recurring commissions. It appeals to affiliates with a crypto-savvy audience in Europe and the UK and offers an opportunity to generate income as the adoption of crypto payment cards continues to grow. Quick Facts of Embily Card Data Point Details Card Network Visa Cookie Duration €24 (billed at €2 per month) APR Range Not applicable (prepaid crypto card) Welcome Offer None currently offered Rewards Rate No cashback or point rewards; referral bonuses available Foreign Transaction Fees 1.5% FX markup on non-euro transactions Credit Check Required No Personal Guarantee Required No Minimum Requirements Verified Embily account with completed KYC Application Timeline Virtual card issued within minutes after KYC; physical card delivered in 1–2 weeks Features of Embily Card This section breaks down what you can expect when using the Embily Card for payments, withdrawals, and more. Core Features The Embily Card brings together several key functions that make it a practical option for anyone looking to spend cryptocurrency in real life. At its core, it allows users to convert crypto assets into euros instantly. Once the funds are in the Embily account, the card can be used anywhere Visa is accepted, both online and offline. This seamless conversion removes the need to manually trade crypto on an exchange before spending. Embily supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tether (USDT), USD Coin (USDC), Binance Coin (BNB), and DAI. These are
Bybit Affiliate Program Review: Daily Crypto Payouts + 7 Higher-Paying Alternatives
For many content creators and traders, turning influence into income remains a challenge. Ad revenue is inconsistent, sponsorships can be hard to secure, and one-time referral bonuses rarely provide lasting value. What most are looking for is a program that delivers predictable, recurring income without adding unnecessary complexity. Crypto affiliate marketing has become one of the fastest-growing ways to monetize digital communities. Exchanges compete fiercely for new users, and affiliates are at the center of that growth. The model is simple: creators introduce traders to a platform and earn a share of the fees generated. In practice, however, these programs vary widely. Some offer generous commission splits and lifetime payouts, while others come with restrictions, slow settlements, or regional barriers that make them harder to scale. Bybit’s Affiliate Program is designed to reward partners with up to 50 percent of trading fees, daily crypto payouts, and lifetime earnings on referred users. The platform provides a dedicated portal with tracking tools, marketing banners, and even personalized account manager support. For affiliates who already focus on trading content, the program can be a meaningful revenue stream. That said, Bybit is not the only option and in some cases, not the highest-paying one. Competitors may offer better incentives, more flexible payment options, or wider market coverage. Affiliates who want to maximize earnings should evaluate multiple programs before committing. This article provides a complete breakdown of the Bybit Affiliate Program, how it works, who qualifies, what it pays, and where its strengths and weaknesses lie. It will also highlight seven alternative programs that in many cases provide higher rewards or fewer restrictions. By the end, you will have a clear sense of whether Bybit is worth pursuing or whether another platform offers a better fit for your business model. Key Takeaways Also Read: Plutus Debit Card Review: Earn Crypto Cashback on Everyday Spend + Top 5 Alternatives What is the Bybit Affiliate Program? The Bybit Affiliate Program is a structured partnership model that allows content creators, influencers, and businesses to earn a share of the trading fees generated by the users they bring to the platform. Instead of offering a one-time reward, Bybit pays affiliates lifetime commissions on referred traders, meaning earnings continue as long as those traders remain active. Affiliates gain access to a dedicated portal with referral links, marketing tools, tracking dashboards, and performance analytics, making it easier to monitor activity and optimize campaigns. Bybit itself was founded in 2018 and has grown into one of the world’s largest cryptocurrency derivatives exchanges. The company consistently ranks among the top exchanges by trading volume, often processing tens of billions of dollars daily. It reports serving more than 20 million users across multiple countries. This scale, combined with regular security audits and global licensing efforts, provides affiliates with a level of credibility that helps build trust when recommending Bybit to an audience. The program is designed for affiliates with established platforms or communities. Ideal candidates include financial bloggers, YouTube educators, Telegram or Discord group admins, and social media influencers who create trading-related content. Developers with trading tools or apps can also qualify. Unlike Bybit’s simpler referral program, which is aimed at everyday users who want to invite friends for small bonuses, the affiliate program is intended for professional promoters who want to generate long-term revenue. Geographic availability is broad but not global. Bybit does not accept affiliates or users from several jurisdictions, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Hong Kong, Singapore, and a few others due to regulatory restrictions. Affiliates are expected to comply with these rules and avoid marketing to excluded regions. This limits potential reach for some creators but ensures the program operates within compliance standards. At present, Bybit runs its program in-house rather than through major affiliate networks like Impact or ShareASale. Affiliates apply directly through Bybit’s dedicated portal. Once approved, they can generate referral links, track performance in real time, and withdraw earnings. The direct model allows Bybit to maintain closer relationships with affiliates, offering account manager support and exclusive promotional opportunities. Earnings are generated through a revenue-sharing model. Affiliates earn up to 50 percent of trading fees from their referrals, along with smaller percentages from Bybit’s earning products like staking or liquidity mining. Payments are settled daily in cryptocurrency, typically in the same asset traded by the referral or converted to USDT. This structure provides affiliates with a consistent income stream that scales with trading activity, rewarding both long-term retention and high-volume traders. Bybit is one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges globally, with over 71 million users across 160 countries Bybit Affiliate Program Details Metric Details Commission Rate Up to 50% on trading fees (spot, derivatives, options); ~5% on earning products Cookie Duration 30 days Payment Frequency Daily (settled by 4:00 AM UTC) Minimum Payout No minimum threshold Payment Methods Cryptocurrency (BTC, ETH, USDT, USDC). Other methods by arrangement Affiliate Network Direct (not available on Impact, ShareASale, or third-party networks) Sub-affiliate Commissions Yes, 10% override on sub-affiliate earnings Available Countries Over 150 supported; not available in US, UK, Canada, Singapore, Hong Kong, and several restricted regions Free to Join Yes Tier System Yes, commission rates increase with higher referral trading volume How the Bybit Affiliate Program Works Here’s a simple breakdown of how to join, manage, and track your progress in the Bybit Affiliate Program. 1. Application Process Getting started begins with a simple online application at Bybit’s affiliate portal. First, you create a Bybit account if you don’t already have one. Then you fill in the affiliate application form, which asks for details about your platform, your target audience, and how you plan to promote Bybit. Applicants are encouraged to provide links to their websites, YouTube channels, Telegram groups, or social media accounts. After submission, Bybit reviews the application. The review process usually takes a few business days, though it can be longer during peak periods. The team evaluates whether your platform is active and whether your content aligns with their compliance standards. You will receive an email notification once
Bitmama Card Review: Easy Crypto Spending Made Simple + Top 5 Alternatives
For many Africans, one of the biggest financial frustrations today is the difficulty of making international payments. Traditional bank-issued dollar cards often come with strict limits, high foreign exchange fees, or are outright unavailable. This makes it hard to pay for global services like Netflix, Amazon, Spotify, or even professional tools needed for work and study. Crypto cards are stepping in to solve this gap by allowing users to fund their cards with digital assets and spend them globally without the usual restrictions. The demand for such solutions is rising quickly. According to industry reports, over 50% of online shoppers in Africa now prefer digital payment methods, and crypto adoption across the continent has grown by more than 1,200% between 2020 and 2023. This trend highlights the need for reliable, borderless payment options, and crypto-powered cards are increasingly becoming the answer. The Bitmama Card is one such option. Issued as a virtual Visa card (with physical cards planned), it enables users in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and beyond to make seamless global payments in USD. By linking directly to your Bitmama crypto wallet, it allows you to fund the card with stablecoins like USDT, USDC, or cUSD and use it just like any regular debit card online. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear picture of whether the Bitmama Card is right for you and what other options might serve you better. We will also take a quick look at UEEx, another rising digital finance platform offering users simplified crypto trading, payments, and virtual card services Key Takeaway What Is a Bitmama Card? The Bitmama Card is a virtual crypto-powered Visa card designed to give Africans easier access to global payments. Unlike traditional bank-issued debit cards that rely on strict foreign exchange (FX) limits, the Bitmama Card lets users fund their card directly with cryptocurrencies, primarily stablecoins like USDT, USDC, and cUSD. This makes it a bridge between digital assets and real spending, allowing seamless transactions across international platforms. Bitmama is a Nigerian-founded fintech company operating in multiple African markets, with a focus on simplifying crypto trading, cross-border payments, and decentralized finance (DeFi) use cases. The company has gained traction for addressing financial challenges unique to African users, especially the lack of reliable USD payment options due to local banking restrictions. The card itself is issued through Visa’s global payment network, making it widely accepted across online merchants. The Bitmama Card is primarily aimed at crypto users in Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya, though expansion to other African markets is ongoing. Its ideal users include freelancers and remote workers who need to get paid in crypto and spend globally, everyday users who want to pay for online services like Netflix, Spotify, Amazon, or Apple Music, and Business professionals who require a simple way to pay for tools, advertising, or cloud services without worrying about FX fees. Traditional African bank cards often have spending limits as low as $20–$50 per month for international payments. They also come with high fees, delays, and currency conversion hurdles. In contrast, the Bitmama Card bypasses these limitations by converting crypto into USD directly within the Bitmama app. Users avoid FX markups and gain higher flexibility in funding and spending. The card operates entirely within the Bitmama app, which serves as both a crypto wallet and a payment dashboard. Users can fund their cards, track expenses, and manage crypto holdings seamlessly in one place. As of 2025, the Bitmama Card is available in Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya, with plans to expand further across Africa. While physical cards are still in the rollout phase, the virtual Visa option remains the primary product offering. Quick Facts Table Data Point Details Card Network Visa (Virtual, with physical card rollout planned) Annual Fee None (only a one-time $5 activation/funding fee) APR Range Not Applicable (prepaid, crypto-funded card) Welcome Offer None currently offered Rewards Rate No cashback or points system Foreign Transaction Fees None (crypto converted to USD directly) Credit Check Required No Personal Guarantee Required No Minimum Requirements KYC verification (ID + selfie) and $5 initial funding Application Timeline Instant (card created within minutes after verification) Key Features of the Bitmama Card When choosing a crypto payment card, the details matter. From daily usability to advanced security, the Bitmama Card brings a mix of convenience and limitations that are important to understand. Let’s break down its features in depth. Core Features The Bitmama Card is designed to bridge the gap between crypto wallets and real-world spending. Here are the main highlights: Multi-currency support The Bitmama card stands out as a virtual and physical payment solution designed for users who want to spend both crypto and fiat seamlessly. One of its core features is multi-currency support, allowing cardholders to fund their cards with cryptocurrencies like USDT, Bitcoin, or Ethereum, while also being able to use stablecoins as a bridge for everyday spending. This makes it attractive in regions where access to foreign currency is restricted, as it gives users an alternative way to spend globally. Fast issuance and activation Another key feature is fast issuance and activation. Unlike traditional banking cards that can take weeks to arrive and activate, the Bitmama virtual card can be issued within minutes through the mobile app. For users who require physical cards, shipping timelines vary by region, but the setup process remains simple and streamlined. This quick turnaround is particularly helpful for freelancers, remote workers, and digital entrepreneurs who need an instant payment solution. Affordability Additionally, the Bitmama card has been designed with affordability in mind. It typically comes with low issuance costs, minimal transaction fees, and no hefty annual charges. Unlike premium global crypto cards, which often demand high staking requirements or premium subscriptions, the Bitmama card prioritizes accessibility. This means it’s well-suited to everyday users who want practicality over luxury perks. Rewards Program Unlike premium competitors such as Crypto.com Visa or Binance Card, Bitmama does not heavily emphasize cashback or lifestyle perks. Instead, its rewards program focuses on utility-based incentives. Some
Tether Invests $100M in Anchorage Digital, the First Federally Regulated Crypto Bank in the US, to Expand Institutional Infrastructure
Tether has made a major institutional bet on U.S.-regulated crypto infrastructure, announcing a $100 million strategic equity investment in Anchorage Digital, the first federally chartered digital asset bank in the United States. The investment, executed through Tether Investments, deepens an existing relationship between the two firms and signals growing confidence in regulated platforms serving large-scale digital asset players. Anchorage Digital provides custody, staking, governance services, and stablecoin issuance for institutional clients, operating under a federal banking charter—still a rarity in the U.S. crypto sector. Key Takeaways A Strategic Vote of Confidence in Regulated Crypto Banking For Tether, the issuer of the world’s largest stablecoin by market capitalization, the move aligns with its broader push toward infrastructure that can support institutional demand while meeting regulatory expectations. The company framed the investment as a long-term commitment to secure and transparent financial systems. “Our investment in Anchorage Digital reflects a shared belief in the importance of secure, transparent, and resilient financial systems,” Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino said. “Anchorage Digital has set a strong benchmark for institutional digital asset infrastructure, and we are pleased to support its continued growth.” The partnership reinforces Anchorage Digital’s role as a backbone for institutional crypto activity, particularly as stablecoins continue to play a central role in payments, settlements, and on-chain liquidity. With regulatory scrutiny intensifying across major markets, federally regulated entities are increasingly attractive to firms seeking compliance clarity. Anchorage Digital Eyes Growth as Public Market Plans Take Shape Anchorage Digital CEO Nathan McCauley described Tether’s backing as validation of years spent building secure, regulation-first infrastructure. He emphasized that digital assets cannot scale sustainably without strong foundations that meet institutional and regulatory standards. “Digital assets require secure and regulated foundations to scale,” McCauley said, noting that the partnership strengthens shared commitments while accelerating infrastructure development for stablecoins and emerging market use cases. The timing of the investment is notable. Anchorage Digital is reportedly exploring a potential entry into U.S. public markets, with plans to raise up to $400 million. While details remain limited, the move would further cement its position as a federally chartered crypto bank operating at institutional scale. What This Means for the Broader Crypto Market Tether’s $100 million investment highlights a broader shift in the crypto industry: capital is increasingly flowing toward compliant infrastructure rather than speculative products. As regulators in the U.S. and abroad push for clearer oversight, firms that can operate within established legal frameworks are gaining strategic advantages. For institutional investors, the Anchorage–Tether alliance offers a signal that stablecoin issuers and regulated banks can work closely to support secure custody, governance, and issuance at scale. For the wider market, it underscores a maturing phase where infrastructure, not hype, is becoming the focal point. As stablecoins continue to underpin much of the crypto economy, partnerships like this may shape how digital assets integrate with traditional financial systems—especially in the United States, where regulatory certainty remains a defining challenge.
McDonald’s Has Surpassed Ethereum ($ETH) in Market Capitalization
The global financial market hit an unexpected checkpoint this week after McDonald’s Corporation overtook Ethereum in total market capitalization, a moment that quickly caught the attention of both traditional investors and crypto analysts. First highlighted by Crypto Rover on X, the comparison may look like a meme on the surface, but beneath it lies a clear signal about risk appetite, capital rotation, and how investors are positioning themselves in 2026. As of February 5, 2026, McDonald’s market value stands at roughly $242 billion, edging past Ethereum’s estimated $239 billion. The shift was driven by two opposing forces: steady strength in blue-chip equities and renewed pressure on crypto assets, particularly Ethereum, which has struggled to regain momentum after a volatile start to the year. Burgers Versus Blockchain: Why This Happened McDonald’s shares have climbed to record levels near $326, supported by consistent earnings, a defensive business model, and reliable dividends. In contrast, Ethereum has pulled back to around $1,960, reflecting weaker network activity, regulatory overhangs, and a broader “risk-off” mood across speculative assets. While both assets are valued using the same market capitalization formula—price multiplied by circulating supply—the foundations of that value could not be more different. McDonald’s is backed by predictable cash flow, franchise royalties, and an enormous global real estate footprint. Ethereum, on the other hand, derives its worth from network usage, transaction fees, and its role as the settlement layer for DeFi, NFTs, stablecoins, and Layer-2 ecosystems. “Market capitalization reflects sentiment in the present, not destiny,” one analyst noted, pointing out that Ethereum remains the backbone of much of the on-chain economy despite its recent drawdown. A Clear Risk-Off Signal Ethereum’s decline comes after a sharp correction of nearly 40% over the past month, as liquidity tightened and speculative appetite faded. Meanwhile, McDonald’s has gained close to 13% year-on-year, benefiting from investors seeking stability in a high-interest-rate environment. Dividends also matter. In periods where capital preservation takes priority, steady income often outweighs the promise of long-term innovation. McDonald’s quarterly payouts offer certainty; Ethereum’s value proposition depends on sustained developer activity and user demand, which tends to fluctuate more aggressively. There is also the contrast between physical and digital assets. McDonald’s owns and controls vast tracts of prime real estate worldwide, giving its valuation a tangible anchor. Ethereum represents digital infrastructure—immensely powerful, but entirely dependent on continued adoption. What This Means for Ethereum This milestone does not suggest Ethereum is losing relevance. If anything, the fact that a decentralized blockchain platform can trade places with a global consumer giant highlights how far crypto has come. Just a few years ago, Ethereum rivaling major S&P 500 companies was seen as extraordinary. Today, the competition itself feels almost normal. The more important indicators going forward are not price alone, but metrics such as Total Value Locked (TVL), transaction volumes, and Layer-2 growth. These data points will show whether Ethereum is being actively used or merely traded. The Bigger Picture McDonald’s briefly surpassing Ethereum is less about burgers beating blockchains and more about how capital behaves under uncertainty. Cash flow wins during cautious cycles; innovation regains favor when confidence returns. For investors, this moment reinforces one lesson: modern portfolios are no longer split between old finance and new finance. They now exist side by side, with traditional corporations and crypto networks competing for the same capital—sometimes trading places along the way.
