Loyalty programs are changing: more and more brands and fintechs reward customers with Bitcoin instead of classic points – a shift that affects how shoppers engage and how long they stay.
1. From Points to Bitcoin Cashback
In June 2025, Coinbase announced the Coinbase One Card, a credit card on the American Express network that pays 2 to 4 % back in Bitcoin on everyday purchases. The card is limited to U.S. members of the Coinbase One subscription; the higher rates depend on how many assets a customer holds on Coinbase (source [1]).
2. Web3 and NFT-Based Loyalty
Web3 loyalty programs are also gaining ground: providers such as Mintology use NFTs and on-chain smart contracts as digital membership cards and reward tokens designed to drive repeat purchases (source [2]).
3. AI and Tokenization for More Personal Rewards
According to PYMNTS, “agentic AI” and tokenized rewards could make loyalty programs more personalized and usable across several merchants (source [3]).
4. Earning Bitcoin While Shopping
Services like Lolli, Fold and Bitrefill let users earn small amounts of Bitcoin when shopping online or buying gift cards (source [4]).
5. Volatility and Taxes Remain Risks
Fluctuating prices, fees and unclear tax treatment remain the main concerns – especially for first-time users (source [4]).
Key Takeaways
- For brands: Bitcoin cashback is moving from niche apps to mainstream payment cards.
- For customers: Rewards can be an easy entry into Bitcoin – but their value fluctuates.
- Outlook: Token-based loyalty systems with AI and smart contracts are being tested.
- Risks: Volatility and tax treatment require clear communication.
Sources
