The rise of crypto payments: Easier, faster and more fun than you think - The Clear Crypto Podcast | Episode 5

This episode of the Clear Crypto Podcast explores the future of crypto payments with co-hosts Nathan Jeffay and Gareth Jenkinson, joined by Stefana Banciu, co-founder of Pulsar Money. The conversation centers on why crypto hasn’t yet become a mainstream payment method and how user experience is the key barrier. Traditional systems are fast and intuitive, while crypto is still perceived as complex and intimidating. Stefana argues that the solution isn’t just replicating existing payment models on-chain—it’s reimagining them to be more social, engaging, and user-friendly.

Key Ideas

Crypto payments lag behind due to friction and poor UX compared to tap-and-go card systems.
Adoption will follow a similar path to mobile payments: gradual trust-building through simplicity and utility.
Pulsar Money aims to make crypto payments intuitive and fun, not just functional.

Why It Matters?

Entrepreneurs can explore new business models around social payments, microtransactions, and gamified finance. Making crypto payments feel rewarding and intuitive will be key to onboarding mainstream users. Strategic partnerships with UX-focused crypto startups may offer a competitive edge in the evolving digital economy.