In the same way that Bitcoin revolutionised the financial landscape, stablecoins are here to revolutionise international payments. And they’re ready to go. 

We know that in the high-stakes world of global commerce, every second and every cent counts. Now there is a financial technology that can slice through the bureaucratic red tape of international payments, eliminating weeks of waiting and thousands in unnecessary fees. 

Welcome to the stablecoin revolution – a game-changing innovation that's quietly rewriting the rules of global business transactions.

The hidden cost of traditional payments

Traditional international payments can often feel like navigating a labyrinth blindfolded. Banks and financial intermediaries create a complex web of fees, delays, and opacity that can transform what should be a straightforward transaction into a costly, time-consuming nightmare. 

Multinational corporations have long accepted these inefficiencies as an unavoidable cost of doing business – until now.

Enter stablecoins

Stablecoins represent more than just a technological upgrade; they're a strategic weapon for forward-thinking businesses. Unlike volatile cryptocurrencies, these digital currencies are anchored to stable assets like the Euro or U.S. dollar, providing a rock-solid foundation for international transactions.

Breaking down the benefits:

1. Transforming cost structures 

Stablecoins don't just reduce costs – they fundamentally reimagine them. By eliminating intermediaries, businesses can slash transaction fees by up to 80%. For a mid-sized multinational, this could mean millions of dollars saved annually, redirected towards innovation, expansion, or talent acquisition.

2. Lightning fast transactions 

Where traditional bank transfers crawl, stablecoins sprint. A transaction that once took 3-5 business days can now be completed in minutes. Offering a serious competitive advantage - imagine closing an international deal before your competitors have even processed their paperwork.

3. Predictability in an unpredictable world 

Currency volatility has long been the bane of international business. Stablecoins provide a predictable, consistent value that allows financial planners to create robust, long-term strategies without constantly hedging against exchange rate fluctuations.

The transparency revolution

Blockchain ensures that both sides of the transactions are fully in the know, at all times. Every single transaction is recorded on a distributed ledger, creating an immutable audit trail. 

For compliance officers and financial controllers, this means real-time tracking, instant verification, and dramatically reduced risk of fraud.

Offering a new paradigm of business expansion

Offering a passport to global business dealings, small and medium enterprises can now compete on an international stage without the traditional barriers of complex banking relationships or prohibitive transaction costs.

Despite the technological sophistication, the most significant breakthrough of stablecoins is fundamentally human. They restore trust in a financial system that has become increasingly opaque and complex. By providing clear, instantaneous, and secure transactions, stablecoins are rebuilding the most critical currency in business: confidence.

Getting started with stablecoins in business

How stablecoins actually work

Before the “how”, let’s explore the “what”. At their core, stablecoins are digital tokens that operate on blockchain networks but maintain a stable value by being pegged to traditional assets. Unlike Bitcoin or Ethereum, which can fluctuate wildly in price, stablecoins aim to maintain a consistent value, typically 1:1 with a fiat currency like the Euro or US dollar.

The stability is maintained through one of three primary mechanisms:

• Fiat-collateralized: Backed by reserves of traditional currency held by a custodian
• Crypto-collateralized: Backed by other cryptocurrencies with excess collateral to account for volatility
• Algorithmic: Use smart contracts to automatically expand or contract the supply based on demand

For business purposes, fiat-collateralized stablecoins offer the most straightforward and trusted solution, essentially functioning as a digital version of the backing currency with blockchain-powered benefits.

Popular stablecoins for business transactions

Several stablecoins have emerged as leaders in the business space:

US dollar-backed stablecoins:

• USDC (USD Coin), USDT (Tether), USDP (Pax Dollar)

Euro-backed stablecoins:

• EUROC (Euro Coin), EURS (Stasis Euro), agEUR (Angle Euro)

Crypto-backed stablecoins:

• DAI (DAI), FRAX (Frax), USDD (USDD)

Multi-currency backed stablecoins:

• XSGD (Xfers Singapore Dollar), CAUD (TrueAUD), NZDS (New Zealand Dollar Stablecoin)

For most business applications, USDC and USDT offer the most immediate utility due to their widespread acceptance and established compliance frameworks. Be sure to research the ones you are interested in before diving in. 

Getting started with the Tap App

The Tap app provides one of the most streamlined onboarding experiences for businesses looking to leverage stablecoins. Get in touch with us here, and an account manager will make contact and discuss how stablecoins can assist with your business needs. 

We’ll run you through the entire process – from concept to implementation – explaining everything along the way and ensuring all your questions are answered. 

Looking forward

As blockchain technology continues to mature, stablecoins are poised to become more than an alternative – they'll become the standard. Forward-thinking businesses aren't just adopting this technology; they're positioning themselves at the forefront of a global financial transformation.

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On Friday, 7 March 2025, the White House held its first-ever Crypto Summit, marking a major turning point in how the U.S. government views the crypto industry. The event gathered top industry leaders, policymakers, and key players to discuss the future of digital assets in the U.S. 

In this article, we explore what people expected from the summit, what actually happened, and how it’s already shaping the crypto market.

What was anticipated 

Before the summit, the crypto community was cautiously optimistic. The Trump administration had already shown interest in digital assets—especially after President Trump appeared at Bitcoin 2024, which got mixed reactions from the market. 

Many investors and industry leaders were hoping the summit would bring clearer rules, encourage innovation, and fix past regulatory issues. 

Hype grew even more after the announcement of an executive order to create a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, raising expectations that Bitcoin might soon play a bigger role in the U.S. economy. Spurring a 12% increase across the crypto market, Bitcoin’s price rose above $92,000 in anticipation of the meeting. 

Summit proceedings

The summit featured prominent figures such as Michael Saylor (of Strategy), Brian Armstrong (of Coinbase), and Brad Garlinghouse (of Ripple), reflecting the administration's commitment to engaging with key industry stakeholders. 

One of the most significant highlights of the gathering was President Trump signing an executive order to create a U.S. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. The plan is to boost the country’s economic strength by holding Bitcoin seized through asset forfeitures. Described as a “virtual Fort Knox” for digital gold, managed by the Treasury.

Data from Arkham Intelligence reveals that the U.S. government presently owns 198,109 Bitcoin worth $17.5 billion based on current market values.

The executive order also requires federal departments to review their cryptocurrency holdings and find ways to acquire more Bitcoin through “budget-neutral” strategies without burdening taxpayers. 

There was also talk about creating a Digital Asset Stockpile, which would include other cryptocurrencies like XRP, Solana (SOL), and Cardano (ADA), to boost the credibility of these digital assets.

Strategic Bitcoin Reserve vs Digital Asset Stockpile

The U.S. government’s approach to digital assets involves two distinct initiatives: the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and the Digital Asset Stockpile. 

The Strategic Bitcoin Reserve aims to hold Bitcoin long-term, using confiscated Bitcoin rather than new government purchases, which has sparked controversy due to Bitcoin's volatility and its decentralised nature, which some argue conflicts with government control. 

Critics also worry that the reserve’s reliance on confiscated assets may lead to politically motivated holdings, rather than a clear strategic plan. 

In contrast, the Digital Asset Stockpile, managed by the Treasury, will hold other cryptocurrencies like Ethereum, XRP, Solana, and Cardano. Unlike the Bitcoin reserve, the stockpile may allow for more flexibility, including potential sales of its assets. 

While the Bitcoin reserve aims to solidify Bitcoin’s place as a strategic asset, the inclusion of other cryptocurrencies in the stockpile raises questions about the government’s broader digital asset strategy. Many aspects still remain unclear.

Market reactions over the outcome

The market's reaction to the summit was mixed. At first, Bitcoin's price surged on optimism. But when it became clear that the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve would rely on existing government holdings instead of new purchases, sentiment shifted. The executive order signed on Thursday confirmed that the reserve would only include Bitcoin the government already holds—mostly from asset forfeitures in criminal and civil cases. Many had expected fresh Bitcoin buys for the fund. While that seems unlikely in the short term, the door has been left open.

This led to a significant price correction, with Bitcoin's value dropping to around $85,000 before stabilising at approximately $88,000, marking a decline of over 3% within 24 hours. Within days, the price dropped to below $80,000. 

In addition, Bitcoin ETFs saw significant outflows, with $370 million pulled out as investors reconsidered the impact of the government’s strategy. The wider cryptocurrency market mirrored this volatility, reflecting the complex dynamics between government policy announcements and investor sentiment.

Navigating the future of cryptocurrency regulation

The White House Crypto Summit was a landmark event in how the U.S. government engages with the crypto industry. While the creation of the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve shows a move toward officially recognising digital assets, the market’s reaction made it clear that investors want clearer, more practical policies. The U.S. is at a pivotal moment in shaping the future of digital finance.

The White House Crypto Summit signalled a shift toward embracing crypto, but the real challenge lies ahead—crafting policies that fuel innovation while keeping markets steady. With the right approach, the U.S. could very well lead the global financial revolution, unlocking the full potential of digital assets and setting the stage for a future where opportunity and stability go hand in hand.

Ever wondered how companies launch those shiny credit cards with their logos on them? Let's dive into the world of card programs and break down everything you need to know to launch one successfully.

What's a card program, anyway?

Think of a card program as your business's very own payment ecosystem. It's like having your own mini-bank, but without the vault, technical infrastructure and security guards. Companies use card programs to offer payment solutions to their customers or employees, whether a store credit card, a corporate expense card, or even a digital wallet.

As you’ve probably figured, the financial world is quickly moving away from cash, and card payments are becoming the norm. In fact, they're now as essential to business as having a product, website or social media presence.

Why should your business launch a card program?

Launching a card program isn't just about joining the cool kids' club – it's about creating real business value and heightened exposure. Here's what you can achieve:

Keep your customers coming back

Remember those loyalty cards from your favourite coffee shop? Card programs take that concept to the next level. When customers have your card in their wallet, they're more likely to choose your business over competitors. Plus, every time they pull out that card, they (and everyone else around) see your brand.

Show me the money!

Card programs open up exciting new revenue streams. You can earn from:

• Interest charges (if applicable)
• Transaction fees from merchants
• Annual membership fees
• Premium features and services
• Insights and information on spending habits

Know your customers better

Want to know what your customers really want? Their spending patterns tell the story. Card programs give you valuable insights into customer behaviour, helping you make smarter business decisions.

Understanding the card program ecosystem

Let's break down the key players in this game:

The dream team

Picture a football team where everyone has a crucial role:

• Card networks (like Visa and Mastercard) are the referees, setting the rules
• Card issuers (like Tap) are the coaches, making sure everything runs smoothly
• Processors (overseen by Tap) are the players, handling all the transactions on the field

Open vs. closed loop: what's the difference?

Open-loop and closed-loop cards differ in where they can be used and who processes the transactions. Let’s break this down:

Open-loop cards:

These cards are branded with major payment networks like Visa, Mastercard, or American Express, and are accepted almost anywhere the network is supported, both domestically and internationally.

Examples: Traditional debit or credit cards, prepaid cards branded by major networks.

Pros: Wide acceptance and flexibility.

Cons: May come with fees for international use or transactions.

Closed-loop cards:

Cards issued by a specific retailer or service provider for exclusive use within their ecosystem. These cards are limited to the issuing brand or select partners.

Examples: Store gift cards (like Starbucks or Amazon), fuel cards for specific gas stations.

Pros: Often come with brand-specific rewards or discounts.

Cons: Limited to specific merchants; less flexibility.

Challenges that may arise

Let's be honest – launching a card program isn't all smooth sailing. Here are the hurdles you'll need to jump:

The regulatory maze

Remember trying to read those terms and conditions? Well, card program regulations are even more complex. You'll need to navigate through compliance requirements that would make your head spin.

Security

Fraud is like that uninvited guest at a party – it shows up when you least expect it. You'll need robust security measures to protect your program and your customers.

We’ve designed our card program to handle these niggles, so that you can bypass the challenges and reap the rewards. With a carefully curated experience, we take care of the setup, programming and hardware so that you can focus on the benefits and users.

Closing thoughts

Launching a card program is like building a house – it takes careful planning, the right tools, and expert help. But when done right, it can become a powerful engine for business growth. 

Contact us to get started on building a card program tailored to your company. After all, the future of payments is digital, and there's never been a better time to get started.

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Currency volatility is a challenge that businesses operating across borders can’t afford to ignore. Exchange rate fluctuations can erode profits, increase costs, and create financial uncertainty, making it difficult for companies to plan effectively.

For businesses that deal with international transactions, traditional solutions like foreign exchange (forex) hedging can be expensive and complicated. Thankfully now, there's a smarter, more efficient alternative—stablecoins.

Stablecoins offer businesses a way to bypass the unpredictability of currency fluctuations by providing a digital asset pegged to stable currencies like the US dollar. The black and white of it is that they make cross-border payments faster, cheaper, and more reliable. 

In this article, we’ll explore why stablecoins are an ideal solution for tackling currency volatility in global financial management.

The challenges of currency volatility in global finance

Global businesses are constantly exposed to currency risks, for a range of reasons, including:

• Geopolitical events – Trade wars, conflicts, or political instability can impact currency values.
• Inflation and interest rate changes – Central bank policies can cause sudden shifts in exchange rates.
• Market speculation – Traders and investors can drive rapid price swings.

For businesses, currency volatility can lead to higher transaction costs, as moving money internationally becomes more expensive. It can also result in unpredictable revenue, making it difficult for companies operating in multiple countries to manage pricing. Additionally, if a currency depreciates suddenly, businesses may face financial losses as profits shrink overnight.

Many businesses use forex hedging strategies (such as forward contracts and options) to manage risk, but these methods are often costly, complex, and require expert knowledge. A simpler, more efficient solution is needed—and that’s where stablecoins come in.

Why stablecoins are the perfect hedge for businesses

Stablecoins offer a practical way for businesses to protect themselves against currency volatility. Unlike traditional cryptocurrencies (which are often highly volatile), stablecoins are pegged to a fiat currency providing a reliable and steady value.

Key benefits for businesses:

• Price stability – With stablecoins, businesses don’t have to worry about sudden exchange rate swings affecting their revenue or costs. 
• Fast, low-cost transactions – International payments using stablecoins settle in minutes, not days, with significantly lower fees than traditional banking systems.
• No dependence on banks – Unlike wire transfers, stablecoin payments don’t require intermediaries, reducing delays and extra costs.
• Transparent and secure transactions – Built on blockchain technology, stablecoins ensure auditable, tamper-proof payments, adding an extra layer of security.

For businesses engaging in global trade, payroll, treasury management, or e-commerce, stablecoins offer a modern financial tool to streamline operations and avoid currency-related risks.

Choosing the right stablecoin for your business needs

Not all stablecoins are created equal. Businesses need to choose the right one based on factors like trust, regulation, and network efficiency.

Top stablecoins to consider:

💰 USDT (Tether) – The most widely used stablecoin, but with some concerns around transparency.
💰 USDC (USD Coin) – Fully backed by regulated financial institutions, making it a trusted option.
💰 DAI – A decentralized stablecoin, offering stability without relying on a central issuer.

💰 EUROC (Euro Coin) – A fully backed euro-denominated stablecoin issued by Circle, providing a stable digital alternative for euro transactions.

Key considerations:

• Regulatory compliance – Ensure the stablecoin follows financial regulations in your operating regions.
• Blockchain network – Some stablecoins operate on multiple blockchains (Ethereum, Tron, Solana). Choosing the right network affects transaction speed and fees.
• Liquidity and acceptance – Businesses should opt for stablecoins with high liquidity and broad industry adoption.

Choosing the right stablecoin is essential for seamless global transactions while ensuring stability and security.

The future of stablecoins in global finance

Stablecoins are no longer just a niche tool—they are gaining mainstream acceptance among businesses, financial institutions, and regulators.

Growing adoption – Companies like PayPal and Visa are integrating stablecoins into their payment systems.

Institutional backing – Banks and investment firms are exploring stablecoin use for settlements and asset management.

Regulation on the rise – Governments are working on stablecoin frameworks, aiming to balance innovation with security.

Emerging financial products – Stablecoin-based loans, savings accounts, and remittance services are expanding the financial ecosystem.

As stablecoins evolve, their role in global financial management will only grow, making them a key tool for businesses worldwide.

Conclusion

Currency volatility remains a major challenge for businesses operating globally, as traditional hedging strategies are often expensive and inefficient, leaving companies searching for a better way to manage financial risk.

As outlined above, stablecoins offer a simple, effective, and low-cost solution to tackling currency fluctuations. By providing price stability, fast transactions, and reduced banking dependency, stablecoins empower businesses to operate seamlessly across borders.

For companies looking to future-proof their global financial operations, stablecoins are an answer worth considering. Now is the time to explore how they can be integrated into your business strategy: and we’re here to help.

The crypto market stands at an intriguing crossroads as we move into 2025. After some landmark events in 2024, including the approval of major ETFs and significant institutional adoption, the digital asset space is evolving from its speculative origins into a more mature market. With this transformation comes both opportunities and challenges that could reshape the current landscape. Here’s what’s worth keeping your eyes on in 2025.

Note: the cryptocurrency market remains a highly complex arena. The trends and developments discussed here are based on current market observations and should not be considered as investment advice. As always, conduct your own thorough research and risk assessment, and consult a financial advisor if necessary.

1. Bitcoin's post-ETF evolution

The introduction of Bitcoin ETFs has fundamentally altered market dynamics. Historical data shows that similar levels of institutional ownership in traditional assets like gold typically precede periods of reduced volatility and steady value appreciation.

BlackRock’s CEO, Larry Fink, recently stated, “Developments could open the floodgate of institutional allocation and drive significant inflows into Bitcoin investment products, particularly BTC spot ETFs, which are likely to see their assets under management (AUM) swell as BTC becomes further entrenched in traditional investment frameworks.”

Whether more digital asset ETFs are approved or more institutional investors enter the market, analysts will be watching closely.

2. Corporate blockchain integration

Beyond simple investment, major corporations are integrating blockchain technology into their operations. According to a report, more than half (52%) of Fortune 100 companies have pursued crypto, blockchain, or Web3 initiatives since the start of 2020. This highlights a significant trend toward blockchain adoption among major corporations.

This corporate adoption could also create additional demand for both established cryptocurrencies and specialised enterprise tokens. Market analysts will be watching whether this continues on the same trajectory.

3. The rise of tokenised traditional markets

Asset tokenisation transforms physical assets like real estate, art, or commodities into digital tokens on a blockchain, representing ownership or shares and simplifying transactions.

A Chainlink report estimates that the tokenised asset market could reach $10 trillion by 2030. As of September 2024, tokenised assets were valued at about $118.6 billion, with Ethereum holding 58% of the market share. This includes everything from real estate and commodities to stocks and bonds. 

On top of that, the efficiency gains from tokenisation could potentially reduce transaction costs by up to 90% while enabling 24/7 trading of traditionally illiquid assets.

4. Emerging market crypto adoption

Cryptocurrencies are significantly reshaping financial landscapes in developing economies. The Inter-American Development Bank highlights that crypto platforms have driven down remittance transfer costs, from 6.4% to 1.8%, making cross-border payments more affordable. Meanwhile, the World Bank projects that blockchain technologies could help provide financial services to 250 million unbanked individuals by 2026.

In countries like Venezuela, 35% of the population uses cryptocurrencies as an inflation hedge, a trend noted by the Brookings Institution. Additionally, nations like Kenya, Rwanda, and Panama are leading blockchain innovations in sectors like agriculture, land registration, and financial services, signaling a fundamental shift in economic infrastructure.

5. DeFi 2.0: the next generation

Decentralised Finance (DeFi) is evolving beyond its initial applications. Funds Society, along with other firms, predict that total value locked (TVL) in DeFi protocols will exceed $200 billion by Q4 2025. The focus is shifting from pure lending and trading to more sophisticated applications like tokenised real-world assets, automated portfolio management, and institutional-grade financial products.

This projection aligns with broader industry forecasts. Analysts also anticipate that decentralised exchange (DEX) trading volumes will reach around $4 trillion, capturing about 20% of the market share.

In essence, DeFi is expanding beyond its initial applications, with projections indicating substantial growth in TVL and a shift toward more sophisticated financial products. The integration of traditional financial services and the tokenisation of real-world assets are key trends shaping the future of DeFi.

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Market context

It's important to remember that these developments are occurring against a backdrop of broader economic changes, so anything is possible. As the relationship between traditional markets and cryptocurrencies continues to evolve, digital assets are increasingly being recognised as a distinct asset class, rather than just speculative investments. 

Looking ahead

While the crypto market has historically been characterised by significant volatility, the institutional infrastructure being built suggests a potentially different pattern emerging. The combination of regulatory clarity, institutional involvement, and real-world adoption could create new market dynamics unlike anything seen in previous cycles.

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When managing your money in today's world you know you need speed, intelligence, and adaptability. So why are traditional banks still operating like they’re stuck in the 90’s – rigid systems, clunky interfaces, and processes that seem designed to slow you down rather than speed you up?

Let’s face it: it’s 2025 and your financial life takes zero breaks. You need a financial partner that moves at your pace and anticipates your needs. One that understands the difference between holding your money and actually helping you manage it.

That's where Tap comes in. We've reimagined financial management as a dynamic, intelligent platform that works as fast as you think and adapts to how you live. No more workarounds, no more compromises – just seamless financial management that finally feels in sync with modern life. And yes, we’ve got crypto too. 

Your money, moving at your pace

Gone are the days when banking was just about storing money and making basic transfers. Today's financial landscape demands more – and at Tap, we're delivering exactly that. 

Think real-time, 

think seamless, 

think intuitive. 

Every feature we've developed at Tap is designed to eliminate those daily financial friction points that slow you down. 

Need to split a bill? It's done before the waiter returns with your card. 

Managing multiple currencies? Switch between them as easily as you switch apps. 

Traveling internationally? Easily top up your card with various fiat or cryptocurrencies so you don’t miss a beat. 

And we believe in rewarding you for simply living your life – earn up to 8% cashback on everyday purchases, turning your regular spending into real returns that actually make a difference to your balance.

Features that fit your lifestyle

What sets Tap apart isn't just our speed – it's our intelligence. We're your financial co-pilot, actively working to make your money work smarter.

Tap's smart router ensures you're always getting the top market prices in real time, whether you're trading crypto or transferring fiat. With features like free instant transfers between Tap users, tailored account tiers, and up to 8% cashback, we're not just keeping up with your lifestyle – we're enhancing it.

Your financial future, upgraded

The future of finance is already here, and at Tap, we're leading the charge. But we're not just building for today – we're constantly innovating for tomorrow. Our development roadmap is shaped by real user feedback and real financial needs, not boardroom assumptions.

Coming soon, you'll see even more innovative features that push the boundaries of what financial management can be. Picture a financial experience that's so seamless, it feels effortless.

The next step is yours

Banking shouldn't just store your money – it should empower you to do more with it. Tap is more than just another fintech platform; we're your partner in building a smarter financial future.

Ready to experience banking that actually keeps up with your life? Getting started with Tap takes less than five minutes. Download our app today and join hundreds of thousands of others who've already discovered what modern money management should be.

Ready to tap into the future? We’re just one tap away. 

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