Learning the friendly way

Every move on Ethereum (sending crypto, minting an NFT, using a dapp) comes with a cost. That cost is called gas. It’s not just a fee - it’s the fuel that keeps the network running.

Knowing how gas works means you’re not just using Ethereum, you’re using it smarter. You can time transactions, avoid peak congestion, and cut your costs. Here we explore how it works and how to take control in a simple and easy-to-understand way. 

What are Ethereum gas fees?

Let’s start with the basics: gas fees are the cost of using the Ethereum network. Any time you do something - like send ETH or swap tokens - you’re asking the network to do work. That work takes computing power, and gas fees are what you pay to get it done.

These fees serve three critical functions:

• Compensate validators for their work
• Secure the network from spam attacks, and 
• Prioritise transactions during busy periods. 

When the network buzzes with activity, the fees naturally rise as users compete for limited block space. Picture Ethereum as a busy highway during rush hour. More traffic means higher tolls, but the road remains secure and functional for everyone willing to pay the current rate.

How Ethereum gas fees work

Every gas fee breaks down into a simple formula that establishes your specific transaction cost:

Total fee = (base fee + priority fee) × gas limit

Let’s break it down:

• The base fee is the minimum cost to get your transaction into a block. It goes up when the network is busy and is burned (destroyed) to help reduce ETH supply.
  
  
• The priority fee (tip) is an extra amount you add to speed things up (like tipping for faster service).
  
  
• The gas limit is how much work your transaction needs. Bigger, more complex actions need a higher limit.

Another important element to understand is that gas prices are measured in Gwei, where 1 Gwei equals 0.000000001 ETH. A typical token swap might use 30,000 gas units. If the current base fee sits at 25 Gwei and you add a 5 Gwei tip, your total cost becomes:

(25 + 5) × 30,000 = 900,000 Gwei = 0.0009 ETH

Let’s say at $2,500 per ETH, that transaction would cost $2.25.

Why Ethereum gas fees fluctuate

Gas fees move with the rhythm of the network. When demand is low, fees drop. When things heat up, they spike.

Big events like new token launches, NFT drops, or market surges can therefore clog the network. More users = more competition for space. That’s when the base fee goes up (remember the formula above: total fee = (base fee + priority fee) × gas limit).

The base fee adjusts with every block (around every 15 seconds). It rises when blocks are more than 50% full and drops when they’re under that threshold.

The type of transaction also matters:

• A simple ETH transfer uses about 21,000 gas units.
• A complex smart contract call: +/-200,000.
• A typical Uniswap swap costs 3–5x more than a basic transfer.

And don’t forget ETH’s price. Even if gas stays steady in Gwei, rising ETH makes each transaction more expensive in dollars.

Quick Tip: Check gas trackers before major transactions. A few minutes of timing can save significant money.

How to check Ethereum gas prices in real time

Active users monitor gas prices like traders watch market charts. There are several tools that provide real-time visibility into the network’s condition.

• Etherscan’s gas tracker (for deep analytics)
  Etherscan provides in-depth gas analytics including real-time rates, historical charts, and insights into average and peak fees. It also offers optimisation tips like identifying “safe low‑cost windows” for transactions.
• Rabby wallet (for user-friendly alerts)
  Rabby’s mobile and browser wallet features built-in gas monitoring, showing current prices and offering “Gas Top Up” functionality. It also supports push notifications (via its GasAccount feature) for favourable conditions.
• MetaMask (for fully integrated wallet visibility)
  MetaMask displays live gas rates directly in its interface and dashboard. You'll see options like Low, Market, or Aggressive for gas speeds, and it even shows fiat equivalents beside token balances.

Most gas trackers display slow, standard, and fast fee tiers, helping you balance cost and speed.

It’s also worth knowing that slow transactions may take 5-10 minutes but can save you 20-30% on fees, while fast ones aim to process within a couple of minutes, at a premium price.

Gas prices also follow weekly patterns. Fees are usually lower on weekends, when institutional and high-frequency trading slows down. And if you’re not in a rush, consider transacting during early morning hours (2–6 AM EST), often the cheapest window of the day.

Ethereum gas fees before and after the merge

Over the years, Ethereum has gone through major upgrades that changed how gas fees work, though granted not always in the ways people expected.

In 2021, the London Hard Fork introduced EIP-1559, swapping chaotic gas auctions for a more predictable pricing model: a base fee + tip. It made fee estimates more stable, but didn’t necessarily make them cheaper.

Then came The Merge in 2022, shifting Ethereum to proof-of-stake. It cut energy use and made block processing more efficient. But despite common belief, it didn’t slash gas fees overnight.

However, The Merge did lay the groundwork for future upgrades (like sharding and rollups) that will unlock real, lasting fee reductions at scale. 

Looking ahead, upgrades like Proto-Danksharding aim to scale Ethereum and bring fees down for good.

How to reduce ETH gas fees

Despite what some might tell you, cutting gas fees isn’t about luck, it’s more about smart choices and good timing. Here are some options:

Use Layer 2s
Networks like Arbitrum, Optimism, and Base offer the biggest savings, sometimes up to 90–95% cheaper than the Ethereum mainnet. For example, a $50 swap on mainnet might cost just $2-$5 on these platforms, with the same level of security. (More on this below).

Simulate before you send
Tools like Tenderly and DeFi Saver let you test complex transactions first, helping you avoid failed attempts that still burn gas.

Pick your moment
As mentioned above, prices drop when the network is quiet. Use gas trackers to spot the best times to transact.

Batch when you can
Some protocols let you combine multiple actions into one transaction, so you pay one base fee instead of several.

Layer 2 solutions that cut gas costs

Layer 2 networks are the future of Ethereum scaling. They can handle thousands of transactions off-chain, then settle them on Ethereum in one go, cutting costs and speeding things up.

• Arbitrum leads in total value locked. It offers fast transactions for just $0.10-$0.50 and supports most major DeFi apps, making it feel like a cheaper version of the mainnet.
  
  
• Optimism offers similar savings, with bonus perks like token rewards for developers through its RetroPGF program, driving growth and innovation.
  
  
• Base combines low fees with easy fiat onramps. It’s great for beginners moving from exchanges into DeFi.

These networks are able to do what they do by using rollups, a tech that bundles hundreds of transactions into one. Think of it like carpooling: everyone shares the cost of the ride, but still gets where they need to go.

Who receives Ethereum gas fees?

Since The Merge, Ethereum handles gas fees in a smart split between rewards and supply control.

• Validators (who secure the network) earn priority fees - tips from users that reward them for processing transactions. This keeps the network safe and running smoothly.
  
  
• Base fees, on the other hand, are burned (permanently removed from circulation). When the network is busy, more ETH is burned, which can reduce supply and make ETH more valuable over time.

Will Ethereum gas fees ever go down?

Ethereum’s roadmap promises big fee cuts, but the biggest changes will take time.

• Proto-Danksharding (EIP-4844) is expected in upcoming upgrades. It will slash Layer 2 costs by 10-100x by creating dedicated space for rollup data. This upgrade is the closest major step toward lower fees.
  
  
• Full Danksharding, further down the line, will boost Ethereum’s capacity massively, making tiny, sub-penny transactions on Layer 2 networks a reality without sacrificing security or decentralisation.
  
  
• Ethereum’s founder, Vitalik Buterin, envisions the mainnet as a secure settlement layer, while Layer 2s handle most daily transactions quickly and cheaply.
  
  

If all goes as planned, popular Layer 2s could offer fees under one cent within 2-3 years, opening the door for micro-transactions and true global use.

Comparison: Ethereum vs other chains

Blockchain networks take different paths when balancing cost, security, and decentralisation, and fees reflect those choices. Let’s take a look at its biggest competitors. 

Solana vs Ethereum
Solana offers super low, sub-penny fees and processes around 3,000 transactions per second (far more than Ethereum’s +/-15 TPS). This speed comes from different architectural choices, but with tradeoffs like higher hardware requirements and occasional network outages. 

Ethereum, meanwhile, prioritises security and decentralisation, scaling through Layer 2 solutions to keep fees competitive.

Binance Smart Chain vs Ethereum
Binance Smart Chain (BSC) delivers low fees, typically $0.10–$0.50 per transaction, but it sacrifices decentralisation by relying on fewer validators and tighter connections to centralised infrastructure. 

Ethereum maintains a more decentralised network while scaling costs through Layer 2s, keeping security front and centre.

Avalanche vs Ethereum
Avalanche strikes a balance with moderate fees ($0.50–$2.00), high throughput, and strong security. However, its ecosystem remains smaller than Ethereum’s rich DeFi landscape, which benefits from Layer 2 scaling and a strong focus on decentralisation.

Final thoughts

Understanding Ethereum gas fees puts you in control, allowing you to save money and utilise the network more efficiently. While fees can fluctuate, smart timing, Layer 2 solutions, and upcoming upgrades promise a future of faster, cheaper transactions. 

While Ethereum continues to prioritise security and decentralisation, its gas fee roadmap reflects a careful balance between innovation and accessibility, paving the way for broader adoption and everyday use.

‍

Vous avez sûrement déjà entendu parler de ChatGPT – cet assistant IA qui revient dans toutes les conversations autour de la productivité et de la technologie. Et honnêtement ? Il est à la hauteur de sa réputation.
Imaginez un ami très intelligent, disponible à tout moment : que ce soit pour vous aider sur un projet de travail, rédiger un e-mail, ou satisfaire une curiosité soudaine à 23h.

Mais voilà ce qu’on ne vous dit pas toujours au départ : toutes les formules de ChatGPT ne se valent pas. Il y a une vraie différence entre la version gratuite (pratique mais parfois limitée) et les formules payantes (plus rapides, plus puissantes, plus stables).

Que vous soyez étudiant au budget serré ou professionnel à la recherche d’un vrai outil de productivité, comprendre ces différentes formules peut vous aider à choisir celle qui correspond à vos besoins.

Les formules ChatGPT en détail (2025)

Décryptons ce que chaque plan propose, et ce que vous obtenez réellement.

‍

✅ Formule gratuite

Tarif : 0 $
Fonctionnalités :

• Accès à GPT-4o mini
• Accès limité à GPT-4o
• Mode vocal standard
• Téléchargement de fichiers
• Génération d’images
• Navigation web
• Analyse avancée de données

Pour qui ?
Parfait pour découvrir l’outil sans engagement. Une bonne façon de tester ce que ChatGPT peut faire, même si certaines fonctions sont limitées.

✅ Formule Plus

Tarif : 20 $ / mois
Fonctionnalités :

• Jusqu’à 80 messages par tranche de 3 heures
• Accès prioritaire à GPT-4o
• Réponses plus rapides
• Mode vocal avancé
• Accès anticipé aux nouvelles fonctionnalités
• Création de GPT personnalisés

Pour qui ?
Idéal pour les indépendants, étudiants ou pros qui utilisent l’IA régulièrement. Cette formule transforme ChatGPT en assistant de travail fiable, disponible et performant.

✅ Formule Team

Tarif : 30 $ / utilisateur / mois ou 25 $ avec engagement annuel
Fonctionnalités :

• Tout ce qui est inclus dans Plus
• Collaboration entre 2 utilisateurs ou plus
• Espace de travail partagé
• Données privées (non utilisées pour l'entraînement)
• Contrôle administrateur et suivi d’utilisation
• GPT personnalisés pour l’équipe

Pour qui ?
Conçue pour les petites équipes ou startups qui veulent travailler ensemble sur des projets IA tout en gardant un cadre sécurisé et organisé.

✅ Formule Pro

Tarif : 200 $ / mois / utilisateur
Fonctionnalités :

• Accès illimité à GPT-4o
• Raisonnement avancé
• Performances de niveau recherche
• Ressources de calcul premium
• Toutes les fonctionnalités précédentes

Pour qui ?
Destinée aux utilisateurs intensifs : chercheurs, développeurs, ingénieurs. Si vous utilisez l’IA comme outil principal au quotidien, cette formule offre un accès sans limites aux capacités les plus avancées.

✅ Formule Enterprise

Tarif : à partir de 60 $ / utilisateur / mois (minimum 150 utilisateurs sur 12 mois)
Fonctionnalités :

• Confidentialité et sécurité renforcées
• Connexions avec les outils internes (Drive, SharePoint, GitHub…)
• Déploiement sur mesure
• Contrôles d’accès avancés
• Support dédié
• Limites personnalisées

Pour qui ?
Pensée pour les grandes entreprises qui souhaitent intégrer l’IA à leur infrastructure tout en respectant les standards de conformité et de sécurité.

Quelle formule choisir ?

Choisir une formule, c’est un peu comme choisir un forfait mobile : vous voulez les bonnes options, sans payer pour ce dont vous n’avez pas besoin.

• Étudiants
  Commencez avec la version gratuite. Elle suffit pour la recherche, l’aide à la rédaction, ou les révisions. Si vous constatez des limites fréquentes, la formule Plus peut offrir plus de fluidité pendant les périodes chargées.
• Freelances et pros en solo
  La formule Plus (20 $/mois) est souvent le meilleur compromis. Que vous soyez créateur de contenu, consultant ou entrepreneur, vous avez accès à des fonctionnalités stables et performantes.
• Développeurs et profils techniques
  Plus fonctionne pour un usage ponctuel. Pour les projets intensifs ou la génération de code à grande échelle, la formule Pro permet de travailler sans interruption.
• Petites équipes et startups
  Team (25-30 $/utilisateur) apporte un vrai cadre de travail collaboratif avec la sécurité en prime. Idéal pour les équipes de 2 à 10 personnes.
• Grandes entreprises
  Enterprise, avec son déploiement personnalisé, permet une intégration complète de l’IA dans les process métiers tout en respectant les exigences internes.

Points à connaître : limites et coûts cachés

Avant de vous lancer, quelques éléments importants à garder en tête :

✅ Usage de l’API

Si vous créez des applis qui utilisent l’API de ChatGPT, le tarif est indépendant des plans ci-dessus. Il est calculé par jeton (par ex. GPT-4 : 0,012 $/jetons de prompt, 0,024 $/jetons de réponse), auxquels s’ajoutent souvent des coûts de serveur ou d’optimisation.

✅ Limitations de messages

Même les formules payantes ont des plafonds. La version gratuite est assez limitée. La formule Plus élargit ces capacités mais n’est pas illimitée. Si vous êtes un utilisateur très actif, ces limites peuvent se faire sentir.

✅ Accès différé à certaines fonctionnalités

Les nouveautés arrivent d’abord pour les abonnés Plus, Pro ou Enterprise. Les utilisateurs de la version gratuite doivent parfois attendre plusieurs mois.

✅ Restrictions sur les fichiers

Même si les uploads sont autorisés, la taille et la complexité des fichiers peuvent poser problème selon les cas d’usage.

Et les alternatives à ChatGPT ?

ChatGPT est top, mais ce n’est pas le seul dans la course. Voici quelques alternatives intéressantes :

• Claude AI (Anthropic)
  Tarifs : version gratuite + Pro à 20 $/mois
  Atouts : très bon pour l’analyse, longues fenêtres de contexte
  Idéal pour : ceux qui travaillent sur des documents longs ou complexes
• Perplexity AI
  Tarifs : gratuit + Pro à 20 $/mois
  Atouts : recherches web intégrées, sources citées
  Idéal pour : utilisateurs orientés recherche et vérification de sources
• DeepSeek
  Tarifs : version gratuite + plans individuels (20–50 $/mois) et offres pro sur devis
  Atouts : bonnes performances à coût réduit
  Idéal pour : ceux qui veulent une alternative solide à prix modéré
• Google Gemini
  Tarifs : version gratuite + AI Premium via Google One (20 $/mois)
  Atouts : intégration poussée à l’écosystème Google
  Idéal pour : utilisateurs déjà investis dans les outils Google

Conclusion : ChatGPT vaut-il son prix en 2025 ?

Tout dépend de l’usage que vous en faites.

• Si vous l’utilisez occasionnellement, la version gratuite est déjà très capable.
• Si vous y revenez chaque jour pour le travail, la formule Plus à 20 $ est vite rentabilisée.
• Pour les équipes, les offres Team et Enterprise permettent de structurer les usages et de professionnaliser les outils.

Bonne nouvelle : vous n’avez pas besoin de tout décider aujourd’hui. Essayez les versions gratuites de ChatGPT, Claude ou Perplexity, et voyez celle qui colle le mieux à votre style de travail. Ensuite, passez à la vitesse supérieure quand vous êtes prêt.

L’intelligence artificielle devient peu à peu aussi essentielle que l’e-mail ou Google Docs. La question n’est plus “si” vous allez l’utiliser, mais “comment” et “avec quoi”.

‍

Private label cards are branded payment solutions that enable businesses to offer customized rewards, incentives, and financing options to their customers and employees. These cards serve as powerful tools for driving customer loyalty, improving cash flow management, and gaining valuable spending insights. In this article, we'll guide you through the concept of private label cards, their key benefits for businesses, and delve into how they work. 

What are private label cards?

Private label cards are branded payment cards issued by businesses to their customers or employees, allowing them to make purchases or access funds within a specific ecosystem or network. Unlike traditional debit or credit cards issued by a bank, private label cards are a product tailored to the branding and specific needs of the issuing company.

These cards differ from traditional cards in several ways. Firstly, they are not tied to a specific financial institution but rather to the company's brand and loyalty program. Secondly, they often offer unique rewards and incentives tailored to the business's products or services. Additionally, private label cards provide businesses with valuable customer data and insights, enabling targeted marketing efforts and personalized experiences.

Private label cards and fintechs

In recent years, fintech platforms have revolutionized the issuance and management of private label cards. These technology-driven companies act as program managers, handling the end-to-end process of card issuance, transaction processing, and compliance adherence. 

By partnering with fintech platforms like Tap, businesses can efficiently launch and manage their private label card programs, leveraging advanced technologies, scalability, and industry expertise without the need for extensive in-house resources.

How private label cards benefit businesses

Private label cards empower businesses to strengthen customer relationships, optimize financial operations, and gain a competitive edge through tailored rewards, data-driven insights, and robust security measures. Let’s explore some of these concepts below:

Drive business

Private label cards offer businesses a range of benefits that can drive customer loyalty, enhance brand recognition, and streamline operations. By offering customizable rewards and loyalty programs tailored to their products or services, businesses can incentivize customers to make repeat purchases while simultaneously collecting data on customer preferences, fostering long-term relationships and brand advocacy.

Cash flow management

Private label cards provide businesses with a valuable tool for cash flow management. By encouraging customers to use their branded cards, companies can receive payments more quickly, improving their working capital and financial flexibility.

Collect data and analytics

One of the key advantages of private label cards is the wealth of data and analytics they provide. Businesses can gain insights into customer spending patterns, preferences, and behaviours, enabling data-driven decision-making and targeted marketing strategies.

Security benefits

Additionally, private label card programs prioritize security and fraud prevention measures. Fintech platforms offering these solutions employ advanced technologies and protocols to safeguard customer information and transactions, providing businesses and their customers with peace of mind.

The differences between private label and co-branded cards

Private label cards are issued by a single retailer or business, bearing their branding and tailored rewards program. Co-branded cards, however, involve a partnership between a merchant and a major card network (Visa, Mastercard), carrying dual branding.

In general, private label cards offer more customization and control for the merchant but may have limited acceptance outside their network. They can also drive stronger loyalty but require more resources to manage.

Co-branded cards, on the other hand, have wider acceptance but less flexibility in terms of rewards/benefits. As they leverage an existing card network's infrastructure, they offer less differentiation.

The choice depends on the merchant's goals; private label are beneficial for deeper customization and loyalty while co-branded cards off wider acceptance and shared resources with a card network partner.

How private label cards work

Private label cards are issued through a collaborative process involving businesses and fintech platforms. Businesses define the card program's features, branding, and reward structure, while fintech platforms handle the technical and operational aspects. As program managers, fintech companies then oversee card issuance, transaction processing, and data management, leveraging their expertise and scalable technologies.

The importance of compliance and adherence to regulatory requirements cannot be underestimated or overlooked when looking at the issuance of private label cards. Fintech platforms need to ensure that card programs comply with industry standards, data privacy laws, and anti-fraud measures, providing businesses with a secure and reliable payment solution. 

Regular audits and risk assessments are conducted to maintain compliance and mitigate potential risks. Businesses must always do their research before engaging in private label card issuance with a fintech platform. 

Examples of use cases

Private label cards can offer a range of use cases across various industries. See several examples below: 

Retail and e-commerce

In the retail and e-commerce sectors, they serve as powerful loyalty tools, incentivizing customers with tailored rewards and exclusive offers. Businesses can leverage these cards to drive repeat purchases and foster brand loyalty. An example would be the Amazon Store Card. 

Corporate expense management

Corporate organizations utilize private label cards for streamlined expense management, enabling employees to make authorized purchases while providing detailed spending data for analysis and budgeting purposes. 

These cards also facilitate employee incentive and recognition programs, rewarding high-performers with customized benefits and privileges. An example of this would be a company card issued to employees to use for company expenses. 

Specific purposes

Additionally, private label cards can be issued as prepaid cards for specific purposes, such as payroll disbursements, gift cards, or restricted-use cards for controlled spending. This versatility allows businesses to tailor card programs to their unique needs, ensuring efficient fund management and targeted usage. 

An example of this could be a corporate-branded preloaded gift card for promotional purposes allowing holders to buy something in-store using the card.

How to create a private label card for your business

With Tap, you can seamlessly integrate private label card programs into your operations. Tap streamlines the entire card issuance and management process, allowing companies to leverage off their advanced technologies and industry expertise. 

By partnering with Tap, you gain access to a scalable and flexible solution, enabling you to launch and adapt card programs efficiently, tailored to your company’s specific needs. Tap's platform offers robust features, real-time analytics, and end-to-end support, empowering every businesses to deliver tailored payment experiences while ensuring compliance and security.

With Tap, you have the power to not only launch and adapt your card programs efficiently but also to customise the fees charged to your users. Our approach is entirely flexible,  allowing you to set charges that align with your clientele's needs. Our platform offers unparalleled freedom, allowing you to tailor your card programs precisely to your company's needs and goals.

Conclusion

In summary, private label cards empower businesses with a versatile payment solution that promotes customer loyalty, optimizes operations, and delivers valuable data insights. Whether for retail, corporate, or specific use cases, private label cards offer a competitive edge through tailored rewards, data-driven strategies, and enhanced customer experiences - paving the way for business growth.

Please contact xxx for further information on setting up your private label card.

‍

There is no denying that innovation in the technology sector has amplified the fast-paced world of finance, instigating constant transformation from brands that want to stay ahead. As with any fast-paced industry, many trends emerge as companies fight to remain relevant. One such trend we will be exploring is the increase in white-label cards and the companies facilitating the issuing of them. 

The process of issuing white-label cards has emerged as a powerful solution in the fintech space, offering customized payment experiences that cater to the unique needs of both businesses and customers. In this article, we will delve into the world of white-label cards, exploring its benefits, applications, and why it has become such a popular choice for financial institutions and fintech companies.

Understanding white-label cards

White-label cards, also known as private-label credit cards, involve the practice of businesses providing other businesses with the opportunity to offer customized credit or debit cards to their customers. Trusted financial institutions or fintech companies issue these cards on behalf of the businesses, while still reflecting the company's branding.

This approach allows businesses to incorporate their logo and branding on the private label credit card, granting the business ownership and control over the card's identity, all without the burden of creating or designing it from scratch.

By partnering with an established financial institution or fintech company, businesses can save time, effort, and resources by leveraging ready-to-use payment solutions instead of going through the costly and complex process of obtaining licenses from companies like Mastercard or Visa.

The shift toward customized payment solutions

Traditional banking systems have often been perceived as slow in adopting new systems and embracing innovation. As the demand for personalized payment experiences continues to grow, businesses are leveraging the opportunity to keep up with the evolving needs of customers seeking customized payment solutions and private-label credit cards.

Consumers today seek customized solutions that align with their preferences and reflect the brands they trust. This shift in consumer behavior has paved the way for white-label cards and in turn, card issuers, which offers businesses the ability to tailor payment solutions and private-label credit cards to their customers' needs. 

Third-party establishments are now offering streamlined payment solutions to these businesses, allowing them to leverage this new technology without needing to complete extensive and costly onboarding processes. Instead, the card issuing companies undergo this process and once accredited are able to provide full-service payment options to their clients.

With co-branded private-label credit cards, customers can unlock a multitude of rewards, bonus points, and exclusive discounts that can be utilized across various services, retailers, and online shopping platforms. By offering these enticing benefits, businesses are able to enhance the overall purchasing experience for their customers, cultivating loyalty and satisfaction.

Private-label credit cards can also come in the form of virtual cards, allowing users to make online payments or use services like Apple Pay with their unique account that essentially acts as a bank account.

The advantages and benefits of private label credit cards

The advantages of businesses utilizing the services of white-label card issuers are numerous, benefiting not only businesses but individuals too. 

For businesses

Firstly, white-label card programs offer a cost-effective alternative to building an in-house card program. By partnering with established providers, businesses can save on upfront costs, development time, and ongoing maintenance expenses.

White-label card programs also offer flexibility and scalability, making them suitable for businesses of all sizes. Whether you're a startup looking to launch a branded payment card quickly or an established business seeking to enhance your payment offerings, the processing of white-label cards can be tailored to meet your unique requirements.

From a branding perspective, white-label card programs provide businesses with heightened visibility and customer loyalty. By issuing branded payment cards, businesses can strengthen their brand identity and foster a deeper connection with their customers. Customizable card designs, exclusive rewards programs, and personalized customer experiences all contribute to building customer loyalty and market competitiveness.

For consumers

For individuals, white-label cards bring convenience and security. These cards can be seamlessly integrated into existing payment ecosystems, enabling individuals to make secure transactions while enjoying the benefits and perks offered by the businesses they frequent. 

Whether it's earning loyalty points, accessing exclusive discounts, or tracking expenses, white-label cards empower individuals with a seamless and tailored payment experience.

Addressing security and regulatory concerns

As with any financial solution, security and regulatory compliance are paramount. Financial institutions and fintech companies offering white-label card programs implement robust security measures to safeguard cardholder data and prevent fraudulent activities. 

Compliance with industry regulations, such as PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard), ensures that customer data is handled securely. Additionally, data privacy and protection measures are put in place to give cardholders peace of mind when using white-label cards.

Examples of brands that have launched a private label card

Below are two examples of prominent brands that have embraced the white-label card trend in its early stages.

Square

In 2019, Square, a prominent payment processing company, partnered with Marqeta's white-label card processing platform to introduce the Square Card, a business debit card designed specifically for Square's sellers. This strategic move allowed Square's business customers to gain immediate access to funds, reducing their reliance on traditional banking services. 

By leveraging Marqeta's solution, Square not only expanded its product portfolio but also strengthened its relationships with its existing customer base.

Shopify

Another notable fintech player, Stripe, offers businesses APIs to issue their own credit cards, debit cards, and prepaid cards. Shopify, a renowned e-commerce platform, utilized Stripe's card issuing services to create the Shopify Balance Card, designed to help businesses start, grow and run their operations.

This card enables over 1 million of Shopify’s merchants to access their earnings instantly through a smart money management tool. The response to the launch was immediate and overwhelmingly positive, as over 100,000 small businesses in the United States embraced Shopify Balance accounts within the first four months.

Through the implementation of Stripe's white-label solution, Shopify added significant value to its merchants, setting itself apart from other e-commerce platforms.

Benefits reported in the case studies

Companies that have implemented the processes to issue white-label cards have reported several potential benefits, including:

Speed to market

Utilizing a white-label solution enables companies to launch card programs more swiftly. These solutions handle critical aspects such as regulatory compliance, technology development, card design, and manufacturing, which can be time-consuming and costly to manage in-house.

Cost reduction

White-label solutions generally require less investment than building a card-issuing infrastructure from scratch. Consequently, companies can save costs associated with development, maintenance, and compliance.

Enhanced customer engagement and retention

By offering a branded payment solution, companies can build stronger customer loyalty. Customers appreciate the convenience and exclusive perks that come with these cards, leading to higher engagement and retention rates.

Creation of new revenue streams

Companies can generate additional revenue streams by offering supplementary services through the card, such as cash-back rewards, premium subscriptions, or lending services.

What businesses should consider before implementing

Implementing a white-label card program requires careful planning and consideration. While the benefits listed above have been reported by companies that have implemented these strategies, these outcomes are not guaranteed. Businesses need to collaborate closely with their chosen white-label card issuer to ensure a smooth implementation process. 

This involves outlining the desired features and functionalities, integrating with existing payment infrastructure and systems, and training staff to manage the program effectively. Technical requirements, such as API integrations and data synchronization, should be addressed to ensure a seamless user experience.

Future trends and innovations in white-label card programs

Looking ahead, the future of issuing white-label cards holds great promise, driven by several key factors:

Market demand

The ever-evolving demand for financial services presents a significant opportunity. Regardless of their size or industry, businesses are increasingly seeking to expand their service offerings with payment and financial solutions. 

This trend aims to cultivate customer loyalty and explore new revenue streams. As a result, the demand for issuing white-label cards is expected to continue its upward trajectory.

Technological advancements

Fintech advancements, such as the widespread use of APIs and enhanced security measures, are simplifying the adoption of issuing white-label cards for businesses. As technology continues to progress, platforms issuing white-label cards are poised to become even more efficient, flexible, and secure, providing a seamless experience for both businesses and customers.

Developments in financial institutions' regulations

The regulatory landscape in the financial services sector is undergoing significant changes. Regulatory bodies worldwide are displaying a willingness to embrace fintech innovation, with some jurisdictions creating "fintech sandboxes" that facilitate controlled testing of new financial products. Should this trend persist, it could streamline the process for businesses to launch the issuing of white-label card programs.

The future of companies issuing white-label cards faces challenges primarily from increasing competition in the market. With more companies entering the space, businesses may experience pricing pressures and difficulties in standing out from the competition. To succeed, businesses need to differentiate themselves through innovation, personalized experiences, and strong partnerships.

They must also navigate regulatory uncertainties, address cybersecurity risks, and employ strategies to seize opportunities and overcome challenges in this dynamic sector. Continuous monitoring, agile decision-making, and a proactive approach are essential for businesses operating in the white-label card-issuing industry.

Tap’s white-label card solution

Tap’s business portfolio offers a streamlined card-issuing service to businesses of all kinds. Fully accredited, Tap is able to offer its partnering companies Mastercard-powered private cards for a fraction of the cost and time it would take if done directly with the financial services company.

In 2023, Tap provided Bitfinex, the longest-running and most liquid major crypto exchange, with a white-label prepaid card solution. By providing the behind-the-scenes financial infrastructure, the established exchange provided its clients with a unique payment solution and created a new revenue stream for the business.

With the necessary card-issuing license and already-established in-house processing system in place, businesses can quickly create their own white-label cards through Tap’s fiat and cryptocurrency-to-fiat funded card programs and other innovative services.

Conclusion

White-label card issuing is revolutionizing the payment landscape, with its rise signifying a powerful solution in the fintech space, delivering customized payment experiences that cater to the unique needs of businesses and customers. 

As technology continues to drive innovation, white-label card programs offer speed to market, cost reduction, enhanced customer engagement, and the creation of new revenue streams. However, businesses should carefully consider implementation factors and address potential challenges, such as regulatory compliance and cybersecurity risks. 

The future of private-label credit card issuing appears promising, driven by market demand, technological advancements, and regulatory developments. To capitalize on this trend, businesses must differentiate themselves in a competitive landscape and adapt to evolving market dynamics. 

Tap's white-label card solution exemplifies the potential of such programs, providing businesses with streamlined card-issuing services and opening new opportunities for revenue growth. As the industry continues to evolve, white-label card issuing will play a vital role in shaping the future of finance, enabling seamless and tailored payment experiences for businesses and individuals alike. 

Avec l’essor des cryptomonnaies, leur adoption mondiale ne cesse de progresser. En 2021, la capitalisation totale du marché dépassait 3 000 milliards de dollars, les investissements institutionnels atteignaient des sommets, et des pays comme le Salvador reconnaissaient le Bitcoin comme monnaie légale.
Dans le même temps, les institutions financières intègrent les actifs numériques dans leurs bilans, tandis que les banques centrales explorent activement les monnaies numériques (CBDC).

Face à cette intégration croissante des cryptoactifs dans notre quotidien, il devient essentiel pour les entreprises de comprendre et d’exploiter cette technologie émergente.

Le Crypto as a Service, c’est quoi ?

Le Crypto as a Service (CaaS) est une solution en marque blanche, destinée aux entreprises et institutions financières souhaitant proposer des services liés aux cryptomonnaies à leurs clients.
CaaS, c’est en quelque sorte le “Banking as a Service”, mais appliqué aux monnaies numériques.

Cette solution plug-and-play permet à n’importe quelle entreprise, fintech, banque ou prestataire financier, d’offrir rapidement des services d’achat, de vente et de conservation de cryptoactifs à ses clients. L’expérience client reste totalement intégrée à la marque, sans intervention visible d’un prestataire externe.

CaaS peut aussi être intégré directement dans une application mobile, facilitant son déploiement dans de nombreux secteurs.

Quand on sait que la gestion d’actifs au Royaume-Uni représente à elle seule plus de 6 600 milliards de livres sterling, et que la valeur des sociétés cotées atteint près de 93 000 milliards de dollars, le potentiel du CaaS auprès des institutions traditionnelles est considérable.
Après le succès du Banking as a Service, tout indique que le Crypto as a Service suivra la même voie.

Comment fonctionne le CaaS ?

Le Crypto as a Service permet aux entreprises — banques digitales, fintechs, institutions financières — d’ouvrir de nouveaux canaux commerciaux en facilitant l’accès de leurs clients aux paiements en crypto et aux actifs numériques. Grâce à cette solution, les clients finaux peuvent :

• Acheter et vendre des cryptomonnaies
• Payer des biens et services avec leur portefeuille digital
• Stocker leurs cryptoactifs de façon sécurisée

De leur côté, les entreprises partenaires bénéficient :

• D’un système de gestion des risques et de surveillance des transactions conforme aux exigences réglementaires
• D’une interface utilisateur personnalisable, en marque blanche
• D’une prise en charge des aspects réglementaires tels que KYC/AML, traitement des ordres et conservation des actifs numériques

Le fournisseur de la solution CaaS prend en charge tous les aspects techniques et réglementaires adaptés à chaque marché (les exigences aux États-Unis diffèrent par exemple de celles au Royaume-Uni), garantissant une expérience sécurisée et conforme.

Résultat : les entreprises peuvent proposer des services crypto de manière fluide et intégrée à leur marque, sans expertise blockchain interne.

Qui peut utiliser le Crypto as a Service ?

Le CaaS s’adresse à toute entreprise souhaitant innover dans le domaine des paiements digitaux et proposer des services crypto :

• Banques centrales et fintechs souhaitant offrir des services d’achat, de paiement ou de stockage de cryptomonnaies
• Gestionnaires d’actifs et fonds de pension cherchant à accéder au marché crypto pour le compte de leurs clients
• Sociétés de transfert d’argent souhaitant réduire les coûts des paiements transfrontaliers
• Marques, e-commerçants et acteurs du gaming souhaitant accepter les paiements en crypto via des portefeuilles numériques

En somme, toute entreprise souhaitant moderniser ses services financiers et intégrer les actifs numériques dans son offre peut envisager le CaaS comme levier de développement.

Le service CaaS proposé par Tap

Chez Tap, nous proposons une solution CaaS fiable, simple à déployer et conforme aux normes réglementaires. Notre technologie plug-and-play permet aux entreprises d’intégrer rapidement les services crypto à leur infrastructure existante, sans expertise blockchain préalable.

Notre solution clé en main permet aux entreprises de proposer à leurs clients :

• L’achat, la vente et l’échange de cryptomonnaies
• Des paiements en crypto
• Un portefeuille crypto sécurisé avec possibilité de générer des rendements (wallet épargne crypto)

Là où créer une plateforme crypto peut prendre plusieurs années, notre service CaaS s’intègre en quelques semaines.

Tap détient également les agréments réglementaires nécessaires, ainsi qu’une couverture assurantielle adaptée, garantissant une conformité totale aux exigences en vigueur.

Avec notre service CaaS, votre entreprise peut se concentrer sur sa croissance, en laissant la gestion technique et réglementaire entre les mains d’experts.

Pour plus d’informations ou pour envisager l’intégration du Crypto as a Service dans votre activité, contactez-nous via cette page.

Conclusion

L’adoption généralisée des cryptomonnaies passe par des solutions simples, sécurisées et conformes.
Le Crypto as a Service ouvre la voie à cette démocratisation, en facilitant l’accès aux actifs numériques pour les entreprises et leurs clients.

Alors que les banques et institutions traditionnelles intègrent déjà les actifs numériques dans leur stratégie, CaaS représente une opportunité concrète d’accompagner cette transition et d’innover dans le secteur financier.

À condition de choisir un fournisseur fiable, avec une API intuitive et une conformité réglementaire rigoureuse, votre entreprise peut rapidement s’inscrire dans cette nouvelle dynamique.

Les cryptomonnaies sont là pour rester. Avec le CaaS, elles deviennent accessibles à tous.

‍

Welcome to Tap’s weekly crypto market recap. 

Here are the biggest stories from last week (8 - 14 July).

💥 Bitcoin breaks new ATH

Bitcoin officially hit above $122,000 marking its first record since May and pushing total 2025 gains to around +20% YTD. The rally was driven by heavy inflows into U.S. spot ETFs, over $218m into BTC and $211m into ETH in a single day, while nearly all top 100 coins turned green.

Read more

📌 Trump Media files for “Crypto Blue‑Chip ETF”

Trump Media & Technology Group has submitted an S‑1 to the SEC for a new “Crypto Blue Chip ETF” focused primarily on BTC (70%), ETH (15%), SOL (8%), XRP (5%), and CRO (2%), marking its third crypto ETF push this year. 

A major political/media player launching a multi-asset crypto fund signals growing mainstream and institutional acceptance, and sparks fresh conflict-of-interest questions. We’ll keep you updated.

Read more.

🌍 Pakistan launches CBDC pilot & virtual‑asset regulation

The State Bank of Pakistan has initiated a pilot for a central bank digital currency and is finalising virtual-asset laws, with Binance CEO CZ advising government efforts. With inflation at just 3.2% and rising foreign reserves (~$14.5b), Pakistan is embracing fintech ahead of emerging-market peers like India.

Read more.

🛫 Emirates Airline to accept crypto payments

Dubai’s Emirates signed a preliminary partnership with Crypto.com to enable crypto payments starting in 2026, deepening the Gulf’s commitment to crypto-friendly infrastructure.

*Not to take away from the adoption excitement, but you can book Emirates flights with your Tap card, using whichever crypto you like. 

‍

Read more..

🏛️ U.S. declares next week “Crypto Week”

House Republicans have designated 14-18 July as “Crypto Week,” aiming for votes on GENIUS (stablecoin oversight), CLARITY (jurisdiction clarity), and Anti‑CBDC bills. The idea is that these bills could reshape how U.S. defines crypto regulation and limit federal CBDC initiatives under Trump-aligned priorities.

Read more. 

Stay tuned for next week’s instalment, delivered on Monday mornings.