· BET RATING Editorial
Bitcoin, USDT, and other digital assets have become part of the payment infrastructure of international iGaming. For cryptocurrency holders, this is an additional payment method, while for operators, it is an opportunity to work with an audience that already uses digital wallets. However, behind the user-friendly interface lie fees, customer verification rules, and the risks of erroneous transfers.
We analyze what confirms the interest in crypto payments in 2026, why stablecoins are important, and what details should be studied before a financial transaction.
Is there a trend in crypto payments: what the data says
Interest in the topic is also noticeable at the regulatory level. In a speech on February 26, 2026, Tim Miller, a representative of the British Gambling Commission, announced the intention to explore the potential use of crypto assets for payments in the licensed market. He noted the existing demand while emphasizing the need to consider the risks. This statement is about exploring the issue, not an announcement of a blanket approval for crypto payments. Source: Gambling Commission.
At the same time, the growth in interest cannot be automatically equated with the displacement of traditional money. In the SOFTSWISS report for 2024, published on March 5, 2025, the amount of crypto bets increased by 18.7%, but their number decreased by 12.8%. The share of cryptocurrencies in the total amount of bets decreased by 2.5 percentage points. The study covered more than 500 brands: this is a sample from the provider, not statistics for the entire global market and not indicators for 2026. Source: SOFTSWISS.
BET RATING conclusion: Crypto payments remain a significant area of development, but bold statements about the majority of players switching to cryptocurrency require separate evidence. The amount of bets, the number of bets, and the volume of deposits are different indicators.
Why USDT attracts attention
A clear unit of value is important for transactions. Bitcoin can fluctuate significantly in price, while USDT is classified as a stablecoin and is pegged to the US dollar. This makes amounts more familiar for perception, although it does not turn the token into a bank dollar and does not eliminate all risks.
In the same SOFTSWISS sample for 2024, the share of Tether among crypto bets increased by 7.3 percentage points. This shows a change in the structure of the crypto segment but does not mean that USDT has become the primary payment method in all bookmakers.
USDT exists on several blockchains. The mere presence of the token's name is not enough: both the sender and the recipient must use a compatible network. Tether itself separately reminds users to verify the protocol and destination address. Source: Tether.
What attracts users to cryptocurrency payments
- Familiar tool. A digital wallet owner may find it more convenient to use an existing asset if the platform accepts it under acceptable conditions.
- Verifiable transaction history. A transaction on a public blockchain has an identifier that allows users to check its status.
- 24/7 sending capability. However, the processing time on the operator's side is determined separately.
- Choice of payment currency. Users can compare available options considering exchange rates, fees, and service rules.
Each advantage depends on implementation. If the platform automatically converts incoming funds into another currency, the final amount is also determined by its exchange rate. And the convenience of sending does not guarantee the reliability of the recipient.
Fast blockchain does not guarantee instant withdrawal
A payment goes through several stages: creating the transfer, network confirmations, and crediting by the operator. When withdrawing, this is supplemented by the review of the application. Therefore, promises of "instant" processing should be compared with published timelines and conditions.
In Bitcoin, confirmation time is not guaranteed, and low fees relative to current demand can increase waiting times. A confirmed send cannot simply be canceled through a central service; refunds depend on the recipient. Moreover, Bitcoin does not ensure complete anonymity: the transaction history is public. Source: Bitcoin.org.
What to check before a crypto payment
| Parameter | What to find out |
|---|---|
| Asset and network | Which specific token and blockchain the platform accepts; what details are needed. |
| Final cost | Sender's fee, possible recipient's fee, and conversion rate. |
| Limits | Minimum deposit amount and withdrawal restrictions. |
| Verification | What documents and proof of funds' origin may be required. |
| Timelines | Separately - network confirmations, crediting, and processing time for withdrawal requests. |
| Bonuses | Does the promotion apply to this deposit method and what are its conditions. |
The mere presence of USDT in the cash register does not confirm the license, quality of service, or the operator's right to serve users from a specific country. For audiences in Russia and the CIS, it is important to check applicable local regulations rather than transferring the conditions of an international platform to their region.
Cryptocurrency does not eliminate identity verification
The promise of "no documents" should not be considered a guarantee of no checks during withdrawal. The British Gambling Commission, for example, classifies crypto assets as payment methods with increased risk and expects corresponding verification of the origin of funds. This is the position of the British regulator, not a universal rule for all countries. Source: Gambling Commission.
Before a transaction, it is important to understand who is receiving the funds, how to contact support, and what process is in place for reviewing disputed payments. Network speed does not replace these conditions.
Follow payment trends through BET RATING
At BET RATING, we publish market news, reviews of bookmakers and online casinos. Compare information about companies, read materials, and study the conditions that are important to you.
Using the BET RATING app on iPhone is convenient: select a region, open ratings and reviews, read news. Check current networks, fees, and the availability of specific payment methods directly in the operator's cash register: they can change.
Open BET RATING in the App Store →
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cryptocurrency already displacing bank payments?
The data presented does not confirm this. Crypto assets occupy a significant place in international iGaming, but the dynamics depend on the market, period, and sample of operators.
Can USDT always be sent over any network?
No. The recipient must support the specific network and token. Matching the name USDT is not enough.
Does a crypto payment guarantee quick withdrawal?
No. In addition to blockchain operations, verifications and the processing time of the application by the platform itself are important.
This material is for informational purposes only. Gambling involves the risk of losing money; the method of payment does not change the odds of winning. Please adhere to age restrictions and the laws of your country.
Comments 0
Please log in on the site, чтобы добавить комментарий, лайк или дизлайк.