Want to launch your own branded card program? We break down the what and how—unlock new revenue, boost loyalty, and stay ahead in the digital payment game.
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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.
NEWS AND UPDATES

Millennials and Gen Z are revolutionizing the financial landscape, leveraging cryptocurrencies to challenge traditional systems and redefine money itself. Curious about how this shift affects your financial future? Let's uncover the powerful changes they’re driving!
The financial world is undergoing a significant transformation, largely driven by Millennials and Gen Z. These digital-native generations are embracing cryptocurrencies at an unprecedented rate, challenging traditional financial systems and catalysing a shift toward new forms of digital finance, redefining how we perceive and interact with money.
This movement is not just a fleeting trend but a fundamental change that is redefining how we perceive and interact with money.
Digital Natives Leading the Way
Growing up in the digital age, Millennials (born 1981-1996) and Gen Z (born 1997-2012) are inherently comfortable with technology. This familiarity extends to their financial behaviours, with a noticeable inclination toward adopting innovative solutions like cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology.
According to the Grayscale Investments and Harris Poll Report which studied Americans, 44% agree that “crypto and blockchain technology are the future of finance.” Looking more closely at the demographics, Millenials and Gen Z’s expressed the highest levels of enthusiasm, underscoring the pivotal role younger generations play in driving cryptocurrency adoption.
Desire for Financial Empowerment and Inclusion
Economic challenges such as the 2008 financial crisis and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have shaped these generations' perspectives on traditional finance. There's a growing scepticism toward conventional financial institutions and a desire for greater control over personal finances.
The Grayscale-Harris Poll found that 23% of those surveyed believe that cryptocurrencies are a long-term investment, up from 19% the previous year. The report also found that 41% of participants are currently paying more attention to Bitcoin and other crypto assets because of geopolitical tensions, inflation, and a weakening US dollar (up from 34%).
This sentiment fuels engagement with cryptocurrencies as viable investment assets and tools for financial empowerment.
Influence on Market Dynamics
The collective financial influence of Millennials and Gen Z is significant. Their active participation in cryptocurrency markets contributes to increased liquidity and shapes market trends. Social media platforms like Reddit, Twitter, and TikTok have become pivotal in disseminating information and investment strategies among these generations.
The rise of cryptocurrencies like Dogecoin and Shiba Inu demonstrates how younger investors leverage online communities to impact financial markets2. This phenomenon shows their ability to mobilise and drive market movements, challenging traditional investment paradigms.
Embracing Innovation and Technological Advancement
Cryptocurrencies represent more than just investment opportunities; they embody technological innovation that resonates with Millennials and Gen Z. Blockchain technology and digital assets are areas where these generations are not only users but also contributors.
A 2021 survey by Pew Research Center indicated that 31% of Americans aged 18-29 have invested in, traded, or used cryptocurrency, compared to just 8% of those aged 50-64. This significant disparity highlights the generational embrace of digital assets and the technologies underpinning them.
Impact on Traditional Financial Institutions
The shift toward cryptocurrencies is prompting traditional financial institutions to adapt. Banks, investment firms, and payment platforms are increasingly integrating crypto services to meet the evolving demands of younger clients.
Companies like PayPal and Square have expanded their cryptocurrency offerings, allowing users to buy, hold, and sell cryptocurrencies directly from their platforms. These developments signify the financial industry's recognition of the growing importance of cryptocurrencies.
Challenges and Considerations
While enthusiasm is high, challenges such as regulatory uncertainties, security concerns, and market volatility remain. However, Millennials and Gen Z appear willing to navigate these risks, drawn by the potential rewards and alignment with their values of innovation and financial autonomy.
In summary
Millennials and Gen Z are redefining the financial landscape, with their embrace of cryptocurrencies serving as a catalyst for broader change. This isn't just about alternative investments; it's a shift in how younger generations view financial systems and their place within them. Their drive for autonomy, transparency, and technological integration is pushing traditional institutions to innovate rapidly.
This generational influence extends beyond personal finance, potentially reshaping global economic structures. For industry players, from established banks to fintech startups, adapting to these changing preferences isn't just advantageous—it's essential for long-term viability.
As cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology mature, we're likely to see further transformations in how society interacts with money. Those who can navigate this evolving landscape, balancing innovation with stability, will be well-positioned for the future of finance. It's a complex shift, but one that offers exciting possibilities for a more inclusive and technologically advanced financial ecosystem. The financial world is changing, and it's the young guns who are calling the shots.

2022 was a rollercoaster for crypto investors. Explore the reasons behind the crashes of Terra and Celsius and what the future holds.
There is seldom a dull moment in the cryptosphere. In a matter of weeks, crypto winters can turn into bull runs, high-profile celebrities can send the price of a cryptocurrency to an all-time high and big networks can go from hero to bankruptcy. While we await the next bull run, let’s dissect some of the bigger moments of this year so far.
In a matter of weeks, we saw two major cryptocurrencies drop significantly in value and later declare themselves bankrupt. Not only did these companies lose millions, but millions of investors lost immense amounts of money.
As some media sources use these stories as an opportunity to spread FUD (fear, uncertainty and doubt) about the crypto industry, in this article we’ll look at what affected these particular networks. This is not the “norm” when it comes to investing in digital assets, these are cases of not doing enough thorough research.
The Downfall of Terra
Terra is a blockchain platform that offered several cryptocurrencies (mostly stablecoins), most notably the stablecoin TerraUST (UST) and Terra (LUNA). LUNA tokens played an integral role in maintaining the price of the algorithmic stablecoins, incentivizing trading between LUNA and stablecoins should they need to increase or decrease a stablecoin's supply.
In December 2021, following a token burn, LUNA entered the top 10 biggest cryptocurrencies by market cap trading at $75. LUNA’s success was tied to that of UST. In April, UST overtook Binance USD to become the third-largest stablecoin in the cryptocurrency market. The Anchor protocol of the Terra ecosystem, which offers returns as high as 20% APY, aided UST's rise.
In May of 2022, UST unpegged from its $1 position, sending LUNA into a tailspin losing 99.9% of its value in a matter of days. The coin’s market cap dipped from $41b to $6.6m. The demise of the platform led to $60 billion of investors’ money going down the drain. So, what went wrong?
After a large sell-off of UST in early May, the stablecoin began to depeg. This caused a further mass sell-off of the algorithmic cryptocurrency causing mass amounts of LUNA to be minted to maintain its price equilibrium. This sent LUNA's circulating supply sky-rocketing, in turn crashing the price of the once top ten coin. The circulating supply of LUNA went from around 345 million to 3.47 billion in a matter of days.
As investors scrambled to try to liquidate their assets, the damage was already done. The Luna Foundation Guard (LFG) had been acquiring large quantities of Bitcoin as a safeguard against the UST stablecoin unpegging, however, this did not prove to help as the network's tokens had already entered what's known as a "death spiral".
The LFG and Do Kwon reported bought $3 billion worth of Bitcoin and stored it in reserves should they need to use them for an unpegging. When the time came they claimed to have sold around 80,000 BTC, causing havoc on the rest of the market. Following these actions, the Bitcoin price dipped below $30,000, and continued to do so.
After losing nearly 100% of its value, the Terra blockchain halted services and went into overdrive to try and rectify the situation. As large exchanges started delisting both coins one by one, Terra’s founder Do Kwon released a recovery plan. While this had an effect on the coin’s price, rising to $4.46, it soon ran its course sending LUNA’s price below $1 again.
In a final attempt to rectify the situation, Do Kwon alongside co-founder Daniel Shin hard forked the Terra blockchain to create a new version, renaming the original blockchain Terra Classic. The platform then released a new coin, Luna 2.0, while the original LUNA coin was renamed LUNC.
Reviewing the situation in hindsight, a Web3 investor and venture partner at Farmer Fund, Stuti Pandey said, “What the Luna ecosystem did was they had a very aggressive and optimistic monetary policy that pretty much worked when markets were going very well, but they had a very weak monetary policy for when we encounter bear markets.”
Then Celsius Froze Over
In mid-June 2022, Celsius, a blockchain-based platform that specializes in crypto loans and borrowing, halted all withdrawals citing “extreme market conditions”. Following a month of turmoil, Celsius officially announced that it had filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in July.
Just a year earlier, in June 2021, the platform’s native token CEL had reached its all-time high of $8.02 with a market cap of $1.9 billion. Following the platform’s upheaval, at the time of writing CEL was trading at $1.18 with a market cap of $281 million.
According to court filings, when the platform filed for bankruptcy it was $1.2 billion in the red with $5.5 billion in liabilities, of which $4.7 billion is customer holdings. A far cry from its reign as one of the most successful DeFi (decentralized finance) platforms. What led to this demise?
Last year, the platform faced its first minor bump in the road when the US states of Texas, Alabama and New Jersey took legal action against the company for allegedly selling unregistered securities to users.
Then, in April 2022, following pressure from regulators, Celsius also stopped providing interest-bearing accounts to non-accredited investors. While against the nature of DeFi, the company was left with little choice.
Things then hit the fan in May of this year. The collapse of LUNA and UST caused significant damage to investor confidence across the entire cryptocurrency market. This is believed to have accelerated the start of a "crypto winter" and led to an industry-wide sell-off that produced a bank-run-style series of withdrawals by Celsius users. In bankruptcy documents, Celsius attributes its liquidity problems to the "domino effect" of LUNA's failure.
According to the company, Celsius had 1.7 million users and $11.7 billion worth of assets under management (AUM) and had made over $8 billion in loans alongside its very high APY (annual percentage yields) of 17%.
These loans, however, came to a grinding halt when the platform froze all its clients' assets and announced a company-wide freeze on withdrawals in early June.
Celsius released a statement stating: “Due to extreme market conditions, today we are announcing that Celsius is pausing all withdrawals, Swap, and transfers between accounts. We are taking this necessary action for the benefit of our entire community to stabilize liquidity and operations while we take steps to preserve and protect assets.”
Two weeks later the platform hired restructuring expert Alvarez & Marsal to assist with alleviating the damage caused by June’s uncertainty and the mounting liquidity issues.
As of mid-July, after paying off several loans, Celsius filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York.
Final Thoughts
The biggest takeaway from these examples above it to always do your own research when it comes to investing in cryptocurrency or cryptocurrency platforms. Never chase “get-rich-quick” schemes, instead do your due diligence and read the fine print. If a platform is offering 20% APY, be sure to get to the bottom of how they intend to provide this. If there’s no transparency, there should be no investment.
The cryptocurrency market has been faced with copious amounts of stressors in recent months, from the demise of these networks mentioned above (alongside others like Voyager and Three Anchor Capital) to a market-wide liquidity crunch, to the recent inflation rate increases around the globe. Not to mention the fearful anticipation of regulatory changes.
If there’s one thing we know about cryptocurrencies it’s that the market as a whole is incredibly resilient. In recent weeks, prices of top cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum have slowly started to increase, causing speculation that we might finally be making our way out of the crypto winter. While this won’t be an overnight endeavour, the sentiment in the market remains hopeful.
Unveiling the future of money: Explore the game-changing Central Bank Digital Currencies and their potential impact on finance.
Since the debut of Bitcoin in 2009, central banks have been living in fear of the disruptive technology that is cryptocurrency. Distributed ledger technology has revolutionized the digital world and has continued to challenge the corruption of central bank morals.
Financial institutions can’t beat or control cryptocurrency, so they are joining them in creating digital currencies. Governments have now been embracing digital currencies in the form of CBDCs, otherwise known as central bank digital currencies.
Central bank digital currencies are digital tokens, similar to cryptocurrency, issued by a central bank. They are pegged to the value of that country's fiat currency, acting as a digital currency version of the national currency. CBDCs are created and regulated by a country's central bank and monetary authorities.
A central bank digital currency is generally created for a sense of financial inclusion and to improve the application of monetary and fiscal policy. Central banks adopting currency in digital form presents great benefits for the federal reserve system as well as citizens, but there are some cons lurking behind the central bank digital currency facade.
Types of central bank digital currencies
While the concept of a central bank digital currency is quite easy to understand, there are layers to central bank money in its digital form. Before we take a deep dive into the possibilities presented by the central banks and their digital money, we will break down the different types of central bank digital currencies.
Wholesale CBDCs
Wholesale central bank digital currencies are targeted at financial institutions, whereby reserve balances are held within a central bank. This integration assists the financial system and institutions in improving payment systems and security payment efficiency.
This is much simpler than rolling out a central bank digital currency to the whole country but provides support for large businesses when they want to transfer money. These digital payments would also act as a digital ledger and aid in the avoidance of money laundering.
Retail CBDCs
A retail central bank digital currency refers to government-backed digital assets used between businesses and customers. This type of central bank digital currency is aimed at traditional currency, acting as a digital version of physical currency. These digital assets would allow retail payment systems, direct P2P CBDC transactions, as well as international settlements among businesses. It would be similar to having a bank account, where you could digitally transfer money through commercial banks, except the currency would be in the form of a digital yuan or euro, rather than the federal reserve of currency held by central banks.
Pros and cons of a central bank digital currency (CBDC)
Central banks are looking for ways to keep their money in the country, as opposed to it being spent on buying cryptocurrencies, thus losing it to a global market. As digital currencies become more popular, each central bank must decide whether they want to fight it or profit from the potential. Regardless of adoption, central banks creating their own digital currencies comes with benefits and disadvantages to users that you need to know.
Pros of central bank digital currency (CBDC)
- Cross border payments
- Track money laundering activity
- Secure international monetary fund
- Reduces risk of commercial bank collapse
- Cheaper
- More secure
- Promotes financial inclusion
Cons of central bank digital currency (CDBC)
- Central banks have complete control
- No anonymity of digital currency transfers
- Cybersecurity issues
- Price reliant on fiat currency equivalent
- Physical money may be eliminated
- Ban of distributed ledger technology and cryptocurrency
Central bank digital currency conclusion
Central bank money in an electronic form has been a big debate in the blockchain technology space, with so many countries considering the possibility. The European Central Bank, as well as other central banks, have been considering the possibility of central bank digital currencies as a means of improving the financial system. The Chinese government is in the midst of testing out their e-CNY, which some are calling the digital yuan. They have seen great success so far, but only after completely banning Bitcoin trading.
There is a lot of good that can come from CBDCs, but the benefits are mostly for the federal reserve system and central banks. Bank-account holders and citizens may have their privacy compromised and their investment options limited if the world adopts CBDCs.
It's important to remember that central bank digital currencies are not cryptocurrencies. They do not compete with cryptocurrencies and the benefits of blockchain technology. Their limited use cases can only be applied when reinforced by a financial system authority. Only time will tell if CBDCs will succeed, but right now you can appreciate the advantages brought to you by crypto.

You might have heard of the "Travel Rule" before, but do you know what it actually mean? Let us dive into it for you.
What is the "Travel Rule"?
You might have heard of the "Travel Rule" before, but do you know what it actually mean? Well, let me break it down for you. The Travel Rule, also known as FATF Recommendation 16, is a set of measures aimed at combating money laundering and terrorism financing through financial transactions.
So, why is it called the Travel Rule? It's because the personal data of the transacting parties "travels" with the transfers, making it easier for authorities to monitor and regulate these transactions. See, now it all makes sense!
The Travel Rule applies to financial institutions engaged in virtual asset transfers and crypto companies, collectively referred to as virtual asset service providers (VASPs). These VASPs have to obtain and share "required and accurate originator information and required beneficiary information" with counterparty VASPs or financial institutions during or before the transaction.
To make things more practical, the FATF recommends that countries adopt a de minimis threshold of 1,000 USD/EUR for virtual asset transfers. This means that transactions below this threshold would have fewer requirements compared to those exceeding it.
For transfers of Virtual Assets falling below the de minimis threshold, Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) are required to gather:
- The identities of the sender (originator) and receiver (beneficiary).
- Either the wallet address associated with each transaction involving Virtual Assets (VAs) or a unique reference number assigned to the transaction.
- Verification of this gathered data is not obligatory, unless any suspicious circumstances concerning money laundering or terrorism financing arise. In such instances, it becomes essential to verify customer information.
Conversely, for transfers surpassing the de minimis threshold, VASPs are obligated to collect more extensive particulars, encompassing:
- Full name of the sender (originator).
- The account number employed by the sender (originator) for processing the transaction, such as a wallet address.
- The physical (geographical) address of the sender (originator), national identity number, a customer identification number that uniquely distinguishes the sender to the ordering institution, or details like date and place of birth.
- Name of the receiver (beneficiary).
- Account number of the receiver (beneficiary) utilized for transaction processing, similar to a wallet address.
By following these guidelines, virtual asset service providers can contribute to a safer and more transparent virtual asset ecosystem while complying with international regulations on anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism. It's all about ensuring the integrity of financial transactions and safeguarding against illicit activities.
Implementation of the Travel Rule in the United Kingdom
A notable shift is anticipated in the United Kingdom's oversight of the virtual asset sector, commencing September 1, 2023.
This seminal development comes in the form of the Travel Rule, which falls under Part 7A of the Money Laundering Regulations 2017. Designed to combat money laundering and terrorist financing within the virtual asset industry, this new regulation expands the information-sharing requirements for wire transfers to encompass virtual asset transfers.
The HM Treasury of the UK has meticulously customized the provisions of the revised Wire Transfer Regulations to cater to the unique demands of the virtual asset sector. This underscores the government's unwavering commitment to fostering a secure and transparent financial ecosystem. Concurrently, it signals their resolve to enable the virtual asset industry to flourish.
The Travel Rule itself originates from the updated version of the Financial Action Task Force's recommendation on information-sharing requirements for wire transfers. By extending these recommendations to cover virtual asset transfers, the UK aspires to significantly mitigate the risk of illicit activities within the sector.
Undoubtedly, the Travel Rule heralds a landmark stride forward in regulating the virtual asset industry in the UK. By extending the ambit of information-sharing requirements and fortifying oversight over virtual asset firms
Implementation of the Travel Rule in the European Union
Prepare yourself, as a new regulation called the Travel Rule is set to be introduced in the world of virtual assets within the European Union. Effective from December 30, 2024, this rule will take effect precisely 18 months after the initial enforcement of the Transfer of Funds Regulation.
Let's delve into the details of the Travel Rule. When it comes to information requirements, there will be no distinction made between cross-border transfers and transfers within the EU. The revised Transfer of Funds regulation recognizes all virtual asset transfers as cross-border, acknowledging the borderless nature and global reach of such transactions and services.
Now, let's discuss compliance obligations. To ensure adherence to these regulations, European Crypto Asset Service Providers (CASPs) must comply with certain measures. For transactions exceeding 1,000 EUR with self-hosted wallets, CASPs are obligated to collect crucial originator and beneficiary information. Additionally, CASPs are required to fulfill additional wallet verification obligations.
The implementation of these measures within the European Union aims to enhance transparency and mitigate potential risks associated with virtual asset transfers. For individuals involved in this domain, it is of utmost importance to stay informed and adhere to these new guidelines in order to ensure compliance.
What does the travel rules means to me as user?
As a user in the virtual asset industry, the implementation of the Travel Rule brings some significant changes that are designed to enhance the security and transparency of financial transactions. This means that when you engage in virtual asset transfers, certain personal information will now be shared between the involved parties. While this might sound intrusive at first, it plays a crucial role in combating fraud, money laundering, and terrorist financing.
The Travel Rule aims to create a safer environment for individuals like you by reducing the risks associated with illicit activities. This means that you can have greater confidence in the legitimacy of the virtual asset transactions you engage in. The regulation aims to weed out illicit activities and promote a level playing field for legitimate users. This fosters trust and confidence among users, attracting more participants and further driving the growth and development of the industry.
However, it's important to note that complying with this rule may require you to provide additional information to virtual asset service providers. Your privacy and the protection of your personal data remain paramount, and service providers are bound by strict regulations to ensure the security of your information.
In summary, the Travel Rule is a positive development for digital asset users like yourself, as it contributes to a more secure and trustworthy virtual asset industry.
Unlocking Compliance and Seamless Experiences: Tap's Proactive Approach to Upcoming Regulations
Tap is fully committed to upholding regulatory compliance, while also prioritizing a seamless and enjoyable customer experience. In order to achieve this delicate balance, Tap has proactively sought out partnerships with trusted solution providers and is actively engaged in industry working groups. By collaborating with experts in the field, Tap ensures it remains on the cutting edge of best practices and innovative solutions.
These efforts not only demonstrate Tap's dedication to compliance, but also contribute to creating a secure and transparent environment for its users. By staying ahead of the curve, Tap can foster trust and confidence in the cryptocurrency ecosystem, reassuring customers that their financial transactions are safe and protected.
But Tap's commitment to compliance doesn't mean sacrificing user experience. On the contrary, Tap understands the importance of providing a seamless journey for its customers. This means that while regulatory requirements may be changing, Tap is working diligently to ensure that users can continue to enjoy a smooth and hassle-free experience.
By combining a proactive approach to compliance with a determination to maintain user satisfaction, Tap is setting itself apart as a trusted leader in the financial technology industry. So rest assured, as Tap evolves in response to new regulations, your experience as a customer will remain top-notch and worry-free.
LATEST ARTICLE

Hey there, Community! ✨
We've got some exciting news to share, and it's all about making your life a little bit easier and a whole lot clearer. We're thrilled to announce our partnership with TapiX – and before you wonder what this is all about, let me break it down into plain English, just for you.
No More Guessing Games 🎲
Ever looked at your transaction history and thought, "Where on earth did I spend that money?" We've all been there, scratching our heads, trying to decipher cryptic names or puzzling out just which coffee shop that was.
Here's where TapiX comes in – and why we're so excited about it. TapiX turns those confusing codes and names into information you can actually understand. We're talking real names of stores, complete with local language and all the details to make it click instantly. Yes, that means no more guessing games!
A Picture Speaks a Thousand Words 📷
But why stop at names? When you look at your transactions, you can now see actual logos and images – making it even easier to spot at a glance where you've been shopping. It's like turning your transaction history into a colourful gallery of your spending habits.

Pinpoint Shopping Locations📍
Ever got a charge from a store and wondered, "When did I go there?”. Now, you won't just see the name; you'll get the exact location. We're talking street address, city, even zip codes – perfect for those "Aha!" moments.

Extra Details at Your Fingertips 🫰
And there's more. Want to revisit a store but can't remember the name? You can now access additional details like website links, opening hours, and more for the store and companies that support it. It's like having a little assistant tucked away in your transaction history.

Why This Matters to You 👀
We believe managing your money should be as straightforward as shopping. That's why we partnered with TapiX – to transform your transaction list from a boring spreadsheet into a clear, understandable, and even helpful part of your daily life.
Here's what it boils down to: less time puzzling out your past spends and more time enjoying your present. Whether you're a budgeting pro or just trying to keep track of where your money's going, we think you'll love this new feature.
It's All About You 💙
At Tap, everything we do is aimed at giving you a better experience. We listen, we care, and we act on what you need. This partnership? It's all about making your financial life clearer and simpler.
We're here to help you make sense of your spending, save time, and maybe even discover some new favourite spots along the way. And this is just the beginning – we're always looking for ways to improve your experience.
So go ahead, take a look at your updated transaction history, and see the difference for yourself.
Here's to clearer, simpler, and more enjoyable finances.
Warmly,
The Tap Team.

Tap, announces a temporary suspension of XTP locking/fees payment for all its users, reflecting a steadfast commitment to regulatory compliance and global collaboration.
In alignment with our regulatory-first vision, Tap announce the temporarily suspending XTP locking and fee payment in XTP. This strategic move reflects our dedication to regulatory compliance in every aspect of our operations.
At Tap, we prioritize responsibility alongside innovation. This temporary suspension underscores our commitment to regulatory compliance and our ability to effectively serve all our users in the United Kingdom, aligning with the new FCA regulations set in place.
In accordance with the Financial Conduct Authority's (FCA) financial promotion rule, we regret to inform our UK residents that the utilization of XTP for locking or payment is temporarily suspended. The FCA has classified the use of digital assets for obtaining discounts as a financial incentive, thus preventing its extension to any UK resident.
The temporary suspension of services in the UK has necessitated a pause in functionality across our entire platform due to its unified nature. Nevertheless, our team remains unwavering in our commitment to restoring Locking/Paying Fees in XTP for our global community.
While this transition may present temporary challenges, it also represents an opportunity for growth and collective progress.
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our users for their unwavering support and patience as we navigate through this transition. Rest assured, Tap remains steadfastly committed to delivering an unparalleled digital asset experience that is compliant, secure, seamless, and transformative for users worldwide.

TAP Partners with Notabene to Implement Innovative Solutions Ensuring Adherence to Cryptocurrencies’ Travel Rule
Tap is proud to announce its new partnership with Notabene, in a concerted and strategic response to strengthen its compliance operations, by utilizing the market-leading solutions to ensure ongoing compliance with the Travel Rule for cryptocurrencies. Embracing the ever-evolving regulatory landscape, this partnership underscores TAP's dedication to ensuring consumer trust and guaranteeing pre-transaction regulatory compliance requirements at all times.
Tap has always taken pride in its regulatory-first approach, emphasizing the importance of consumer trust and operational transparency. Tap's decision to partner with Notabene is grounded in a multitude of strategic rationales. Notabene's all-encompassing SafeTransact platform, renowned for its excellence in identifying and mitigating high-risk activity before it occurs, provides compliance teams with the tools to make data-driven choices and enhances operational efficiency by seamlessly integrating the Travel Rule into compliance processes.
Notabene's notable offering includes its SafeGateway solution, which facilitates VASP-to-VASP interaction across protocols. This positions them as strong contenders in the cryptocurrency compliance solutions sector. This underscores why TAP views this partnership as a positive step toward maintaining a competitive edge in the fintech compliance landscape.
Comment from Kriya Patel, CEO of Tap
“I am delighted to be able to announce our strategic partnership with Notabene and I look forward to growing the relationship together whilst navigating through to meeting and maintaining our current and future regulatory requirements in our industry.
The partnership with Notabene was a natural one. They share the same values as Tap by focusing on customer-driven product needs, whilst allowing us to maintain a regulated and security-first approach.”
Comment from Pelle Braendgaard, CEO of Notabene
"We are pleased to collaborate with Tap, their commitment to compliance and customer trust aligns seamlessly with our mission. Together, we can advance the industry while ensuring the highest standards of security and transparency."

Welcome to the delicious world of cookies! But hold on, we're not talking about those sweet treats you munch on during tea time. We're here to unveil the mysterious and oh-so-important cookies that exist on the vast landscape of the internet.
These cookies aren't tangible, instead, they're small pieces of data that roam around cyberspace, shaping and enhancing your online experience. In this article, we break down what cookies are exactly and how they impact our online interactions.
What are cookies?
These digital marvels play a vital role in enhancing our online experiences. So, what exactly are cookies and why does your computer store them?
When you're hopping from one website to another, your computer keeps a small file on behalf of each website you visit. This file is the cookie. The name "cookie" actually comes from a programming term called a magic cookie, coined by the programmer, Lou Montulli, and adds flavour to your online adventures.
But why do computers store these little files? Cookies help web servers remember you, ensuring a smooth and personalised browsing experience. Let's say you perform an action on a website, like switching to a dark mode or logging in with your credentials. Your computer takes note of this and saves the information in a cookie.
When you revisit that website in the future, your computer hands back the stored information from the cookie to the website. It's as if your computer is acting as a helpful assistant, reminding the website of your preferences, saved settings, and even items left in your virtual shopping cart.
The bottom line is that cookies are an integrated service that allow for a seamless and tailored browsing experience.
The different types of cookies
As with its baked goods counterpart, not all cookies are created equal. Each type serves a unique purpose in enhancing your online experience. Here's a breakdown of the most common cookie varieties:
Session cookies
These are temporary cookies that exist only during your browsing session. They hold information about your activities on a website, ensuring smooth navigation. Once you close the browser, session cookies vanish, leaving no trace behind.
Persistent cookies
Unlike their transient cousins, persistent cookies stick around even after you close the browser. They store information like login details or preferences, making your return visits more personalised and convenient.
First-party cookies
These are created by the website you are visiting. They help to remember your preferences and settings, making your browsing experience smoother.
Third-party cookies
These cookies come from external sources, often embedded in the website you're visiting. They track your browsing habits, allowing advertisers to deliver targeted ads based on your interests.
Cookie consent and those pop-up banners
When you visit a website, you may have noticed those cookie consent banners or pop-ups that demand your attention. Turns out they are quite important. Implementing these notifications helps websites comply with data protection regulations and respect your privacy.
They also play a vital role in helping users understand the importance of giving consent and being aware of how their data is used. So, next time you encounter a cookie consent banner, remember it's there to protect your rights and ensure transparency in the online world.
How cookies track and analyse your behaviour
Cookies have become a powerful tool for tracking and analysing user behaviour on websites. They enable website owners to gather valuable analytics data and gain insights into visitor patterns and preferences.
By utilising cookies, website administrators can track the number of page views, monitor the time users spend on their site, and gain a deeper understanding of how visitors interact with different elements. This data helps them optimise their websites, improve user experience, and tailor content to suit audience preferences.
On top of that, cookies also play a crucial role in targeted advertising, allowing marketers to display ads based on users' browsing habits and interests. So, the next time you encounter a personalised ad, you can thank those little, but mighty, cookies for their clever insights.
How you can manage your cookies
Managing and controlling useful cookies gives you more control over your online privacy. Through browser settings, you can choose to accept, reject, or delete cookies. Taking control of your cookie preferences allows you to customise your browsing experience and limit the data collected by websites.
Additionally, various cookie management tools are available, making it easier to handle cookies across different websites. It's important to understand the implications of accepting or rejecting cookies, as it can affect website functionality, personalised experiences, and even the relevance of advertisements. Find the right balance that suits your privacy preferences and browsing needs.
Conclusion
In the vast realm of the internet, cookies are the unsung heroes that make our online experiences seamless and personalised. These small files, stored by our computers on behalf of websites, play a crucial role in remembering our preferences, settings, and actions.
So, the next time you encounter a cookie consent banner or notice the personalisation of a website, you'll know it's all thanks to these small but mighty digital gems called cookies.
Increasing speculation is that the global economy could be headed for a recession in 2023. This comes as governments around the world continue to grapple with rising debt levels and sluggish economic growth despite massive fiscal stimulus packages.
Meanwhile, companies are facing headwinds from changing consumer preferences, technological disruption, and escalating trade tensions. All of these factors have raised concerns about whether the current economic expansion can be sustained over the long term.
Below we explore the likelihood of an upcoming economic downturn and guide you through how to protect your savings and investments should you be faced with one.
Are we headed for a recession in 2023?
According to economic research conducted by Bloomberg, economists have predicted a 70% chance of a recession next year, up from their 30% prediction in July last year. While not the technical definition, recessions typically take place after two consecutive quarters of negative economic growth, which was seen last year.
Despite the interest rates and inflation, consumer demand has deteriorated. After two years of bulked-up hiring, job search activity is now also waning. The stock markets have declined approximately 20% in 2022 with speculations indicating that further drops in 2023 are likely to follow suit.
While these stats might cause panic, know that recessions are part of the natural economic cycle. In fact, there have been thirteen recessions since World War II, each lasting an average of 10 months, all of which recovered. With the right preparations, an economic downturn can cause minimal damage to your financial goals.
How to ride out a recession with minimal damage (hint: emergency fund)
First and foremost, build your emergency savings fund before the recession goes into full effect. This involves saving money to build up three to six months’ worth of expenses that can be used for any unforeseen costs that might pop up over times of economic slowdown. Building an emergency fund is a surefire way to protect your investments and recession-proof your finances.
On top of this, experts recommend putting off any big purchases, especially luxury items, and creating (and sticking to) a budget. Look for valuable money-saving tips and implement these into your day-to-day life. These tips might help you to save money beyond the economic uncertainty and help you to offset the rising costs of living. Consider creative ways to beat the economy and cut costs.
How to manage debt in an economic downturn
If you have a steady job, starting today, increase your payments to eradicate your debt. Don’t underestimate the freedom that comes with being debt-free, not only financially but emotionally too. Once you’ve paid this off you will have more room in your balance sheets to navigate the interest rate hike and increased cost of living typically associated with recessions.
Should you lose your job, try to minimize your unessential debt repayments and focus on having enough money to cover your four pillars: food, utilities, shelter, and transportation. If you have funds left over, put them in a savings account, particularly if you don’t have your emergency fund set up yet.
Whatever happens, do not get into more debt, high interest debt will only make a bad situation worse. Consider speaking to a certified financial planner if you are unsure.
How to recession-proof your savings
Assuming you still have your job, continue to save money and build your cash reserves. Don’t let economic downturns stop you from moving toward your economic goals. Ideally, you have your emergency savings fund set up to buffer any personal losses and cover your living expenses. This allows you to put your usual amount of savings into an interest-yielding account without any concern for “what ifs”.
Now is also a great time to review your budget and allocate every cent to a purpose. If there is any extra money left over, incorporate this into your savings or retirement account. If not, revise to see where you can cut spending and fill up your savings jar.
How to manage your stock market investments during a recession
The golden rule of managing your investments and maintaining your financial position during a recession is not to sell at a loss. Time and time again we see investors make trades based on fear, and ultimately make terrible losses while peers that left their funds in the stock market account see impressive returns once the economy has returned to normal.
Remember: losses are only realized once you withdraw the funds from the investment vehicles. Leave them in there, as with every economic cycle in history, it will get better. And if you have the funds, consider investing a little more - stock market prices will be at “discount” lows.
Other valuable advice is not to make any sudden changes to your investment strategy, consider investing as a long-term approach.
Some long-term investors look to incorporate shares in consumer staples companies into their portfolios as a strategy to overcome market slumps. By investing in funds like the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund or the Vanguard's Consumer Staples ETF, the hopes are that the success of these funds will offset the losses from other stocks within the portfolio.
Avoid FUD and be prepared
Despite whatever economic situation might arise, rest assured that it shall pass. After all, if you are reading this now then you have most likely lived through several recessions before and come out on top. Don't let any worries stop you from being prepared in case of a recession, after all, these tips above on how to recession-proof your finances are your best chance of coming out on top, again.
Digital currencies are propelling the banking industry into a period of rapid innovation. As digital currencies continue to immerse themselves in the greater financial landscape, businesses incorporating cryptocurrencies are reaping the benefits from the forefront of this new revolution. This article addresses everything a small to mid-size business needs to know about crypto banking and how to leverage this new-age technology.
What is crypto banking?
The term "crypto banking" refers to the management of one's crypto assets by a third-party financial institution. Similar to how traditional banks manage services pertaining to fiat currency, a crypto bank would manage all services relating to cryptocurrencies.
These crypto banking services typically allow users to hold a balance, make payments with a crypto debit card and earn interest on a supported crypto asset through crypto interest accounts, also known as crypto savings accounts. Some platforms might also offer loan services and crypto interest accounts, also known as crypto savings accounts.
Due to regulatory restrictions imposed on these fintech companies and the crypto market, it is common for these types of institutions within the financial sector to operate in certain jurisdictions like the United Kingdom or the United States of America. This is not uncommon for traditional banks either.
A crypto bank is not typically a crypto exchange, instead, it is defined as a fintech platform operating in the crypto banking space. Providing services for both fiat currency and digital assets, crypto banks are revolutionizing the financial institution sector.
What are the benefits of incorporating crypto into your business?
With over 320 million customers around the world shopping with cryptocurrencies, incorporating digital assets into your payment options allows you to tap into this broad group of consumers.
Additionally, the advantages of crypto payments outweigh fiat transactions in a number of ways, providing a more secure and faster means to send money across borders (or simply next door). These include:
- More rapid transactions
- More cost-effective transactions
- Accessibility
- Security
- No chargebacks (all transactions are final)
- Reduced fraud
Data suggests that an increasing number of businesses are starting to explore crypto payments, where employees can earn either their full salary or a part of it in digital assets in remuneration for their job. Some remote workers are even maintaining a career solely relying on crypto payments, hence the rise in crypto banks and crypto banking services.
Crypto banking, payment gateways, and businesses
Through crypto banking services or payment gateways, businesses are able to receive payments in digital assets and instantly convert them into fiat should they wish to do so. It's important to note that these services go beyond the services of that a normal crypto exchange might offer.
Some crypto service providers will allow businesses to make crypto payments directly from their account, however, until this becomes normalized business owners often chose to convert their digital assets due to concerns over volatility and cash flow.
Below we cover the most pressing questions concerning small to medium-sized businesses incorporating crypto assets into their business models and how to effectively use crypto banking services to streamline this.
Crypto Banking Services and Small Businesses
Can small businesses use cryptocurrency?
Whether you’re conducting a few transactions a week or several hundred a day, cryptocurrencies provide an ideal payment solution. With minimal fees and no foreign exchange rates, accepting crypto payments is a cost-effective solution for small businesses, especially ones operating with a global customer base.
By engaging in crypto banking services offered by a reputable crypto bank, businesses can manage cryptocurrency with the same ease as a traditional bank account.
Why do small businesses use crypto?
Small businesses will typically incorporate cryptocurrencies into their payment methods as a cost-effective solution as well as an opportunity to tap into a broader target market. With minimal transaction fees, short processing times, and heightened security, crypto transactions provide a perfect solution for small businesses. By adding crypto payments to their menu, many businesses are gaining an edge over their competition.
With the innovation that crypto banks are bringing to the forefront, small businesses can bypass the high fees associated with crypto exchanges and instead tap into crypto banking services at a more realistic price point.
Crypto as a Business Expense
Can crypto be a business expense?
For any size business, understanding the tax implications of accepting cryptocurrency payments is crucial. While it's important to understand the tax rules in your area, consulting a tax professional will likely be in your best interest.
Businesses can also opt to incorporate crypto tracking software or crypto tax software in their business models to ensure that they are compliant. Please consult your tax professional regarding any questions you might have about being taxed on crypto in your country before engaging in any crypto banking or opening a bank account with a crypto bank.
Can I buy crypto as a business expense?
As each country’s laws on taxing cryptocurrencies differ, it's best to consult a tax professional in your area who can properly advise. While you don't need a degree in tax to manage a business, gaining an education on the implications of the taxation of cryptocurrencies will do you, as a business owner accepting cryptocurrencies, a world of good. Reach out to your crypto bank or look to crypto companies for recommendations.
Crypto as Business Investment
Can businesses invest in crypto?
Yes, it has become increasingly common for businesses of all scales to invest in cryptocurrencies. Due to the high returns that Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies have presented over the years and its strong ability to store value paired with the increasing adoption of digital currencies as payment methods, many businesses have chosen cryptocurrencies as a viable investment option.
With the rising popularity of crypto lending, many businesses are using their digital currency investments to generate wealth. Operating in the same way as traditional savings accounts, businesses can store their digital currency in an interest-generating account that provides returns.
However, before investing in cryptocurrencies we encourage you to conduct thorough research on the topic and decide if it suits your business’s financial goals and business plan.
Can my LLC invest in crypto assets?
Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) provide the best of both worlds: access to the liability shield typically associated with corporations and the tax benefits found in partnerships or sole proprietorships. With this being said, it’s best to check on the cryptocurrency laws and tax implications in your area before engaging in any crypto investments.
Businesses and Crypto Wallets
Can a business hold a crypto wallet?
Yes, anyone can open a crypto wallet. When looking to incorporate cryptocurrencies or any crypto financial services in your business opening a wallet is a must. Consider what your business intends to do with the cryptocurrencies (i.e. will you be making daily transactions or storing funds long term) and choose an appropriate wallet.
Can I set up a crypto wallet for my business?
Any company can set up a business account and crypto wallet with Tap. Tap provides businesses operating within the digital asset sector with dedicated IBANs allowing for access to international payments, settlement and trading services for both stablecoins and cryptocurrencies. Businesses also gain access to dedicated account managers and support.
How do I set up a crypto wallet business account?
To set up a crypto wallet business account with Tap, anyone from the company can fill out this form and a dedicated account manager will get back to you in 1 to 2 working days.
Paying Employees with Crypto
Can I pay my employees with crypto?
Yes, cryptocurrencies can be used to pay employees’ salaries in most countries. Before going ahead with the process ensure that you have done adequate research about crypto payments in your area and are familiar with the rules and regulations. I.e. some states require employers to pay the minimum wage in USD and the remainder in cryptocurrencies.
Crypto and Business Operations
What is a crypto business account?
A crypto business account is an account from which a business can manage its cryptocurrencies. While crypto business accounts might vary from platform to platform, the basis is that the account will allow a business to buy and sell cryptocurrencies and hold a balance.
Tap’s business account also provides companies with access to trading facilities, a wide range of crypto wallets, the ability to pay external accounts, passive income generation, and a dedicated account manager.
How is crypto taxed for business?
Typically, cryptocurrency income is taxed as regular income tax, however, a business must do adequate research on the matter to determine the tax implications of accepting and investing in cryptocurrencies in your country. We always recommend contacting a tax professional that specializes in cryptocurrencies in your region.
How do I report crypto as business income?
You will need to find the relevant tax rules in your area to determine how to report crypto as a business income. Countries will typically require a specialized crypto tax form when declaring crypto income. Remember, it is a criminal offense to not declare the appropriate earnings.
Should my business start accepting cryptocurrency?
By embracing cryptocurrency as a payment option, you can lower your transaction fees, safeguard yourself from costly chargebacks and broaden your customer base to better suit their inclinations. This will not only help strengthen the security of your business but is also guaranteed to expand its reach in today's market.
Accepting cryptocurrencies might not be appropriate for every business model, so ensure that the payment option fits into your business model.
How can a business accept crypto payments?
In order to accept cryptocurrencies you will need to provide your wallet details or QR code in your payment options. Installing crypto payments into your online store is seamless and straightforward, simply find the appropriate plug-in or app compatible with your e-commerce platform. If this option isn't accessible, businesses can add the code from their wallet in HTML.
Can I buy crypto with my LLC?
LLCs are legally allowed to own and trade cryptocurrencies in most countries, however, you will need to confirm with the relevant laws in your area. Businesses can open a crypto wallet in the LLC’s name and purchase the funds directly or transfer the funds from a personal wallet. Alternatively, one can open a business account with Tap and gain access to a wide range of crypto services for your business including a dedicated account manager and support.
Businesses and Crypto Accounts
How do I buy a crypto account for my business?
Setting up a business crypto account can be done in one simple step. Simply complete the form here and a dedicated account manager will get in touch with you within 1-2 working days and personally guide you through the process. You will be required to provide proof of identity and several business documents. While gaining access to a wide range of crypto services there are no fees associated with opening the account.
Can you open a crypto bank account for a business?
Yes, absolutely. Setting up a business crypto account with Tap is simple and straightforward. All you need to do is fill out this form and a dedicated account manager will get in touch with you to guide you through the process best suited to your business needs.
Can I open a crypto account for my business?
Yes, absolutely. Opening a crypto business account with Tap is very simple. All you need to do is fill out the form and you will be contacted by one of our knowledgeable account managers who will help you find the right solution for your company's needs.
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