Binance to Discontinue Visa Debit Card Services in Europe
Binance Ends Visa Debit Card Services in EEA
Binance, a prominent cryptocurrency exchange, has announced it will cease its Visa debit card services across the European Economic Area (EEA) starting December 20, 2023. This decision is set to affect about 1% of the platform's global users, encompassing nearly 40 European nations such as Germany, France, and Spain.
Impact on Crypto Transactions
The Visa debit cards, facilitated through Contis Financial Services under Solaris Group, enabled seamless crypto-to-currency conversions for transactions within the EEA's 27 EU countries plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. Since their inception in September 2020, expansion plans were considered for Russia and the US.
Effects on Specific Programs and Users
The termination also impacts the Ukrainian Refugee Crypto Cards program, specifically designed for verified refugees. Despite these changes, Binance reassures that European users' main accounts remain unaffected. Transactions will proceed through the Binance Pay app, albeit with less merchant support compared to the Visa cards.
Challenges and Adjustments
This shift comes amid various challenges faced by Binance, including the suspension of euro transactions after the withdrawal of Paysafe and restrictions for new UK user registrations. Moreover, Binance.US halted US dollar deposits in June, though a partnership with MoonPay now facilitates Tether (USDT) purchases and offers a workaround for dollar withdrawals via stablecoin conversion.
Broader Regulatory Scrutiny
Regulatory pressures have also influenced Mastercard's decision to end its partnership with Binance in regions like Argentina and Brazil. Card services have been restricted in Latin America and the Middle East, highlighting the ongoing scrutiny Binance faces globally.
What is Coinefficiency?
Coinefficiency is your go-to platform for optimizing cryptocurrency trading, investments and strategies. We provide a comprehensive suite of tools to analyze market trends, monitor price movements, and execute effective trading strategies. Whether you're a seasoned trader or new to crypto, Coinefficiency helps you maximize your profits with data-driven insights.
Why Use Coinefficiency?
- Advanced market analytics to identify trading opportunities.
- Compare markets relative performance.
- Understand market cycles over time. See market levels.
- Compare buy-and-hold, portfolio rebalancing, Dollar-Cost-Averaging trading strategies.
With Coinefficiency, you can stay ahead of the market and execute efficient trading strategies effortlessly.
Get Started with Coinefficiency
Ready to optimize your crypto investments? Take control of your portfolio with cutting-edge tools designed for both beginners and experts.