Visa, PAPSS, and crypto cards reshape how we pay with crypto

Bitcoin steady, altcoins stir – but is it a real shift?

The global crypto market cap edged up by 1% to $3.44 trillion, signaling cautious optimism. Bitcoin traded between $107,000 and $108,000, with Ethereum flat near $2,500. Most major tokens showed little movement, except for Arbitrum (ARB), which surged more than 20% on rumors of a partnership with Robinhood.

Meanwhile, Pi Network (PI) fell by more than 4%. Despite isolated rallies, market signals like BTC dominance at 62.4% and low altcoin volume suggest that a broader altcoin season hasn’t begun. Market sentiment remains neutral as traders watch for macroeconomic catalysts to drive the next move.

New African system aims to ease cross-border payments

The Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) has launched a new African Currency Marketplace, designed to ease cross-border payments by allowing instant, local-currency settlements across African nations. Developed by Afreximbank and national banks, it marks a major step toward reducing dependence on the U.S. dollar for intra-African trade.

While not explicitly a crypto platform, the system shares many goals with blockchain-based solutions – cheaper, faster, and borderless transactions. It also complements growing crypto use in the region, from Kenya’s recent removal of a 3% crypto tax to South Africa’s Luno Pay reaching 2 million rand in monthly payments.

Why does it matter?
PAPSS could pave the way for smoother cross-border crypto payments, especially as stablecoins continue gaining traction across Africa.

Coinbase honored by TIME as it leads ETF custody

Coinbase has been named one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential Companies of 2025. The recognition follows a 42% increase in its stock price during June, surpassing the S&P 500 and reflecting growing investor confidence in crypto infrastructure firms.

The company now holds custody of roughly 81% of U.S. crypto ETF assets – about $110 billion of the $140 billion total – and serves eight of the ten largest publicly listed bitcoin-holding companies. The shift highlights Coinbase’s evolving role from consumer exchange to institutional backbone as U.S. regulatory clarity improves.

South Korea pauses CBDC tests

South Korea shelves its CBDC rollout to prioritize stablecoins and improve digital payment infrastructure. Photo: Unsplash / Shawn

The Bank of Korea has halted plans to test a central bank digital currency (CBDC) publicly in 2025, instead focusing on payment infrastructure and regulated stablecoins. Officials cited strong digital payment systems already in place and concerns around privacy and surveillance as key reasons for the shift.

Rather than abandoning CBDC research altogether, the pivot signals a preference for flexible, market-driven tools over state-issued tokens. With South Korea already welcoming crypto ETFs and fintech innovation, the decision points to a broader trend toward user-centered regulation.

Europe embraces crypto cards

A new report shows that crypto-linked debit cards are now being used more often than traditional bank cards for purchases under €50 across Europe. The trend reflects growing user comfort with on-the-fly crypto-to-fiat conversion, supported by faster transactions and lower fees. Crypto cards are proving especially popular for coffees, groceries, and transit – everyday use cases once thought out of reach for digital assets.

Thanks to regulatory clarity under MiCA and expanded support from providers like Binance, Wirex, and Crypto.com, crypto cards are integrated with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and local financial services.

Visa and Crossmint enable AI agents to spend crypto

Web3 infrastructure company Crossmint has partnered with Visa to enable AI agents to make purchases directly on the blockchain. Using tokenized credentials through Visa’s Intelligent Commerce platform, AI assistants will be able to securely and autonomously execute transactions on behalf of users.

The system includes spending guardrails and fraud protection, keeping user card details private while allowing real-time digital payments. The move brings AI, crypto, and everyday commerce closer together, hinting at a future where digital assistants may do more than just book appointments – they could also pay the bill.

Why does it matter?
If AI agents can spend your crypto for you, managing your finances could soon feel as simple as managing your smart home.

Trader loses $12M in a week

Crypto trader Qwatio incurred over $12 million in losses this week, facing eight liquidations, including a 25x leveraged Ethereum position. The series of losses underscores the high risks associated with aggressive leverage strategies, particularly in low-volatility environments.

Even as broader crypto prices remain stable, this case serves as a reminder that market calm doesn’t always mean trader safety – especially when large bets are involved.

Why does it matter?
Even without using leverage, individual investors can be affected by wider volatility when large liquidations impact overall sentiment and liquidity.

Bolivia’s inflation drives locals to stablecoins

Bolivians increasingly turn to stablecoins as inflation soars and access to dollars tightens. Photo: Unsplash / Snowcat

With inflation at a 40-year high and the national currency down nearly 50% against the dollar, Bolivians are increasingly turning to crypto – especially stablecoins like USDT – for everyday purchases and savings. The shift isn’t just among investors; it's visible in shops, salons, and informal markets as the economy struggles with fuel shortages and dwindling dollar reserves.

While the government maintains strict controls on the banking system, the parallel crypto economy is growing quietly – fueled by practicality, not hype.

Why does it matter?
It shows how crypto can serve as a lifeline in countries facing economic crisis – something that could be relevant anywhere when trust in fiat systems erodes.

GIG Act could reshape U.S. stablecoin policy

The U.S. Senate will vote today on the “GIG Act,” a bill that could reshape how stablecoins are regulated. The vote is drawing bipartisan attention: Senator Bill Hagerty supports it for boosting competitiveness, while Senator Elizabeth Warren has warned of financial system risks.

If passed, the legislation could alter how stablecoin issuers operate and impact liquidity in decentralized finance protocols. Regardless of the outcome, the vote signals that Washington is finally treating crypto’s dollar-backed sector as a systemically important part of the financial ecosystem.

Why does it matter?
If you use stablecoins, this could impact how easily you can move money between crypto and traditional finance in the future.