Crypto-linked cards are quickly gaining traction in Europe, now outperforming traditional banks in micro-spending. According to new data from CEX.IO, 45% of crypto card transactions are under €10 ($11.70), outpacing cash and conventional card use for everyday low-value purchases.

CEX.IO’s report shows a 15% increase in newly issued crypto cards across Europe in 2025, indicating rising adoption among consumers using digital assets for groceries, dining, and transportation. These spending habits mirror those of traditional bank card users but with a stronger tilt toward online transactions. While the European Central Bank reports 21% of card payments are online, crypto card users perform 40% of their transactions on the internet—nearly double the regional average.

The average crypto card transaction is €23.70 ($27.80), lower than the €33.60 ($39) recorded for bank card transactions in Q1 2025, based on Mastercard data. Everyday spending is now the norm for crypto cardholders, with groceries making up 59% of purchases and dining at 19%, both matching or exceeding mainstream benchmarks.

Stablecoins account for 73% of all crypto card payments, with Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and Solana also contributing significantly. Other platforms like Oobit and Crypto.com report similar usage trends among European users, confirming the broader momentum.

However, not all institutions are on board. UK banking giant Barclays has announced a ban on crypto purchases using its Barclaycard credit cards, citing market volatility and limited consumer protections. The bank warned that crypto purchases are not covered by the Financial Ombudsman Service or the Financial Services Compensation Scheme.