What: Stablecoins and blockchain infrastructure are transforming retail payments, enabling faster, cheaper, and more accessible transactions across the global economy.

Why it is important:  The mainstreaming of crypto payments reflects a broader transformation in retail finance, building on the momentum of digital currencies and advanced payment infrastructure.

The State of Crypto 2025 report highlights a turning point for the retail industry as crypto matures into a foundational element of the global economy. Stablecoins have become the backbone of onchain commerce, powering trillions in annual transactions and offering businesses and consumers near-instant, low-cost payments that rival traditional networks. Major financial institutions and retail platforms, including Visa, PayPal, Shopify, and department store chains like Bealls Inc., are integrating crypto products, accelerating the adoption of digital assets in everyday transactions. This shift is particularly evident in emerging markets, where mobile wallet usage and onchain activity are surging, expanding access to global commerce. Advances in blockchain infrastructure have dramatically increased transaction throughput and reduced costs, making crypto payments viable for high-volume retail environments. The convergence of AI and crypto is also reshaping retail, with AI agents automating transactions and personalising customer experiences. As regulatory clarity improves and infrastructure matures, retail stands poised for a new era of operational agility, innovative business models, and enhanced customer engagement.

IADS Notes: The rapid adoption of stablecoins and digital currencies in retail is confirmed by the January 2025 a16z report, which details how near-zero transaction fees are reshaping payment models. The September 2025 BCG Global Payments Report further highlights the integration of stablecoins by major retailers and the resulting innovation in cross-border transactions. The October 2025 article from The Street documents Bealls Inc. accepting crypto payments, illustrating the mainstream shift in retail payment experiences. Additionally, the January 2025 Journal du Net article emphasises the evolution of payment terminals toward AI-driven, crypto-enabled solutions. The September 2025 Journal du Net and March 2025 Inside Retail articles provide evidence of AI agents automating commerce and personalising retail, underscoring the convergence of these technologies as a transformative force in the industry.

State of Crypto 2025: The year crypto went mainstream - article

State of Crypto 2025: The year crypto went mainstream - full report