In 2024, Bitcoin and the overall cryptocurrency ecosystem experienced a significant shift due to the introduction of the first Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs, indicating institutional acceptance. Bitcoin’s value surpassed 100,000 USD, and stablecoins further solidified the global influence of the US dollar.
The next twelve months are already promising, with experts predicting positive outcomes in the cryptocurrency realm. Stablecoin growth is projected to accelerate in 2025, potentially reaching over $400 billion. Meanwhile, Bitcoin’s functionality is expanding beyond being a store of value, with Layer 2 networks like Stacks, BOB, Babylon, and CoreDAO enabling the possibility of a flourishing Bitcoin DeFi ecosystem.
What about mainstream use? Thus far, cryptocurrencies have remained a relative niche industry, inaccessible for those not well-versed in its jargos and complexities. Yet, there are several ways in which cryptocurrencies can be used on a daily basis – from investments to smart contracts and more.
Online Purchases
Bitcoin is being adopted by businesses globally, with over 15,000 companies, including around 2,300 in the United States, now accepting it alongside traditional payment methods. Although primarily small businesses, this growing trend might not be readily apparent to shoppers, who may not consider inquiring about Bitcoin as a payment option.
AT&T, a major U.S. telecommunications provider, made headlines in 2019 as the first mobile carrier in the country to accept crypto payments for online bill settlements. Similarly, AXA Insurance introduced Bitcoin payments for Swiss customers in 2021, enabling them to pay premiums and bills using digital currency—a move the company had been considering since 2019.
Microsoft was an early adopter, allowing customers to purchase apps, games, and other digital products with Bitcoin since 2014. The tech giant continues to accept BTC payments and has also explored blockchain technology for various applications in recent years.
Tesla, under the leadership of Elon Musk, briefly ventured into Bitcoin transactions in 2021, allowing customers to purchase vehicles with the cryptocurrency. However, the program was discontinued shortly after its launch. Currently, Tesla accepts Dogecoin, but only for selected products in its online store, excluding car purchases.
iGaming
Cryptocurrencies have established a strong connection with online gambling. One key factor driving this connection is the decentralized nature of cryptocurrencies, which allows for faster, more secure, and often anonymous transactions.
Popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin are increasingly accepted by online casinos as payment methods. Those who play Thimbles, slors, or poker at online sites like Bit Casino, can place their bets with cryptocurrency. In fact, the game Thimbles itself is a “crash game” – an emerging genre in the industry whose dynamics are heavely inspired by the volatility of crypto currencies.
Online casino and sports betting operators have also leveraged blockchain technology to promote more transparency and fairness. Many operators use “provably fair algorithms”, which allow players to verify the fairness of game outcomes independently. This level of trust is particularly appealing in an industry where fairness and security are paramount concerns.
Importantly, enabling cryptocurrency payments appeals to those players seeking privacy and reduced reliance on traditional banking systems.
Philanthropic Donations
Cryptocurrency donations are increasingly accepted by nonprofit organizations worldwide. In the United States, for instance, over half of the top charities, including the Red Cross, now accept cryptocurrency donations.
“A lot of folks have begun to realize that crypto giving is hugely beneficial,” claimed the vice president and charitable planning consultant for Fidelity Charitable, Kyle Casserino. The organization, which currently accepts Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin, received $688 million in crypto donations in 2024.
Organizations of the likes of Helpers Social Development Foundation, Habitat for Humanity International, WaterAid, and The British Red Cross have joined this trend, accepting crypto donations.
Smart Contracts
Smart contracts enable developers to create decentralized applications (dapps) and tokens that operate on blockchain networks. These contracts are foundational for a wide range of uses, including financial services, logistics, and gaming. Once deployed on a blockchain, most smart contracts cannot be altered. This, in turn, ensures transparency and security.
Decentralized finance (DeFi) is one prominent application of smart contracts, offering alternatives to traditional banking. DeFi apps allow users to perform financial tasks like saving, borrowing, and lending without intermediaries such as banks, reducing costs and increasing accessibility. Examples of smart contract-powered platforms include Uniswap, Compound, and USDC.
Uniswap, for instance, is a decentralized exchange that enables cryptocurrency trading without centralized authorities determining rates. Compound allows users to lend or borrow cryptocurrencies directly, with interest rates set algorithmically by smart contracts. USDC, a stablecoin tied to the U.S. dollar, maintains its value through smart contract mechanisms, offering a reliable digital currency for transactions.
These tools facilitate financial transactions. For example, a person can trade Ethereum for USDC on Uniswap, where the platform’s smart contracts automatically determine the best exchange rate and execute the transaction. The acquired USDC can then be used on Compound, where it can be lent out to generate interest. This entire process operates without the involvement of traditional financial intermediaries.
To conclude
From finance to gaming and beyond, the fast evolution of cryptocurrencies continues to reshape industries. As adoption grows, companies and platforms like Bitcasino are demonstrating the practical applications of digital currencies, particularly in areas like online gambling, where transparency and efficiency are key.
With innovations such as smart contracts and DeFi expanding accessibility and functionality, the future of cryptocurrency seems positive and increasingly integrated into daily life.
