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.

‍

Τι είναι το ChatGPT και γιατί συζητιέται παντού;

Αν δεν το έχεις ήδη δοκιμάσει, σίγουρα έχεις ακούσει για το ChatGPT – το AI εργαλείο που εμφανίζεται σε κάθε κουβέντα γύρω από παραγωγικότητα και τεχνολογία. Και ειλικρινά; Αξίζει τη φήμη του.

Σκέψου το σαν έναν πολύ έξυπνο φίλο που είναι πάντα διαθέσιμος όταν χρειάζεσαι βοήθεια: από εργασίες, μέιλ, μέχρι και τις πιο τυχαίες ερωτήσεις που σου έρχονται στις 11 το βράδυ.

Αλλά εδώ είναι κάτι που θα θέλαμε να μας είχε πει κάποιος νωρίτερα: τα πλάνα του ChatGPT διαφέρουν πολύ μεταξύ τους. Η εμπειρία που έχεις με τη δωρεάν έκδοση και με το Plus ή το Pro δεν συγκρίνεται.

Αν είσαι φοιτητής που μετράει κάθε ευρώ ή επαγγελματίας που θέλει να απογειώσει την παραγωγικότητά του, καλό είναι να ξέρεις τι πληρώνεις και τι παίρνεις. Πάμε να δούμε αναλυτικά τα πλάνα του ChatGPT για το 2025.

Ανάλυση πλάνων ChatGPT για το 2025

Δωρεάν πλάνο ChatGPT

Κόστος: €0
Περιλαμβάνει:

• Πρόσβαση στο GPT-4o mini
• Περιορισμένη χρήση του GPT-4o
• Τυπική φωνητική λειτουργία
• Αρχεία και εικόνες
• Αναζητήσεις στο διαδίκτυο
• Ανάλυση δεδομένων

Ιδανικό για: Όσους θέλουν να πειραματιστούν με την τεχνητή νοημοσύνη χωρίς να πληρώσουν. Ένας καλός τρόπος για να γνωρίσεις το εργαλείο.

ChatGPT Plus

Κόστος: €20/μήνα
Περιλαμβάνει:

• Περισσότερα μηνύματα (έως 80 ημερησίως)
• Πρόσβαση στο πλήρες GPT-4o
• Ταχύτερες απαντήσεις
• Προηγμένη φωνητική λειτουργία
• Πρόωρη πρόσβαση σε νέες λειτουργίες
• Δημιουργία custom GPTs

Ιδανικό για: Ελεύθερους επαγγελματίες, φοιτητές και επαγγελματίες που χρησιμοποιούν συχνά το AI και χρειάζονται αξιοπιστία και ταχύτητα.

ChatGPT Team

Κόστος: €30/χρήστη ανά μήνα ή €25/χρήστη ετησίως
Περιλαμβάνει:

• Όλα τα χαρακτηριστικά του Plus
• Συνεργατικά εργαλεία για ομάδες
• Δεν γίνεται εκπαίδευση με τα δεδομένα της ομάδας
• Πίνακας διαχείρισης και αναλύσεις
• Προσαρμοσμένα GPTs για το workspace

Ιδανικό για: Μικρές ομάδες και startups που θέλουν συνεργασία με ιδιωτικότητα και καλύτερο έλεγχο.

ChatGPT Pro

Κόστος: €200/μήνα ανά χρήστη
Περιλαμβάνει:

• Απεριόριστη πρόσβαση στο GPT-4o
• Προηγμένες δυνατότητες ανάλυσης
• Υψηλότερη απόδοση
• Όλα τα χαρακτηριστικά των προηγούμενων πλάνων

Ιδανικό για: Χρήστες που εργάζονται με το AI καθημερινά, όπως ερευνητές, developers ή επαγγελματίες που χρειάζονται σταθερή, υψηλής ποιότητας απόδοση.

ChatGPT Enterprise

Κόστος: Περίπου €60/χρήστη/μήνα (για 150+ χρήστες, με ετήσιο συμβόλαιο)
Περιλαμβάνει:

• Εταιρική ασφάλεια και αναλύσεις
• Συνδέσεις με εσωτερικές πηγές (Google Drive, SharePoint, GitHub κ.ά.)
• Προσαρμοσμένη υλοποίηση και υποστήριξη
• Ανώτερα εργαλεία ελέγχου και όρια χρήσης

Ιδανικό για: Μεγάλες επιχειρήσεις που θέλουν να ενσωματώσουν το AI σε όλα τα επίπεδα των λειτουργιών τους.

Ποιο πλάνο του ChatGPT σου ταιριάζει;

Το σωστό πλάνο εξαρτάται από τις ανάγκες σου – όπως όταν διαλέγεις πρόγραμμα κινητής τηλεφωνίας.

Για φοιτητές: Ξεκίνα με το δωρεάν πλάνο. Αν δεις ότι το χρησιμοποιείς συχνά, πήγαινε στο Plus.

Για freelancers και επαγγελματίες: Το Plus είναι το sweet spot. Εξοικονομεί χρόνο και αυξάνει την απόδοση.

Για developers: Αν το χρειάζεσαι περιστασιακά, Plus. Αν δουλεύεις εντατικά με AI, πήγαινε Pro.

Για ομάδες: Το Team προσφέρει πραγματική αξία με δυνατότητες συνεργασίας και διαχείρισης.

Για μεγάλες επιχειρήσεις: Το Enterprise είναι για οργανισμούς που χρειάζονται ασφαλή, προσαρμοσμένη ενσωμάτωση του AI.

Προσοχή στα «κρυφά» κόστη

API χρήση

Αν χτίζεις εφαρμογές με ChatGPT, υπάρχουν έξτρα χρεώσεις ανάλογα με τα tokens που χρησιμοποιείς.

Όρια χρήσης

Το δωρεάν πλάνο έχει περιορισμούς. Ακόμα και στο Plus μπορεί να φτάσεις τα όριά του αν το χρησιμοποιείς εντατικά.

Πρόσβαση σε λειτουργίες

Οι πιο πρόσφατες λειτουργίες συνήθως γίνονται διαθέσιμες πρώτα στους χρήστες Plus ή Pro.

Αρχεία & αποθήκευση

Υπάρχουν περιορισμοί σε μέγεθος αρχείων και επεξεργασία δεδομένων.

Υπάρχουν εναλλακτικές στο ChatGPT;

Ναι, και κάποιες αξίζουν την προσοχή σου:

• Claude AI: Ισχυρή ανάλυση και κατανόηση, ιδανικό για μεγάλα κείμενα.
• Perplexity AI: Τέλειο για έρευνα με αποτελέσματα που συνοδεύονται από πηγές.
• DeepSeek: Πολύ καλή απόδοση με πιο οικονομικές τιμές.
• Google Gemini: Συνδέεται άψογα με τα εργαλεία της Google.

Συμπέρασμα: Αξίζει το ChatGPT το 2025;

Αν το χρησιμοποιείς περιστασιακά, το δωρεάν πλάνο είναι αρκετό. Αν το χρησιμοποιείς συχνά, το Plus αξίζει τα λεφτά του. Αν έχεις ομάδα ή το AI είναι μέρος της δουλειάς σου, τότε τα επαγγελματικά πλάνα προσφέρουν την ευελιξία και τα εργαλεία που χρειάζεσαι.

Το σημαντικό είναι ότι μπορείς πάντα να δοκιμάσεις πριν αποφασίσεις. Ξεκίνα με τα δωρεάν πλάνα και δες ποιο ταιριάζει καλύτερα στον τρόπο που δουλεύεις. Το μέλλον του AI είναι εδώ, το θέμα είναι να βρεις αυτό που σου ταιριάζει.

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. 

Ever wondered how companies launch those shiny credit cards with their logos on them? Let's dive into the world of card programs and break down everything you need to know to launch one successfully.

What's a card program, anyway?

Think of a card program as your business's very own payment ecosystem. It's like having your own mini-bank, but without the vault, technical infrastructure and security guards. Companies use card programs to offer payment solutions to their customers or employees, whether a store credit card, a corporate expense card, or even a digital wallet.

As you’ve probably figured, the financial world is quickly moving away from cash, and card payments are becoming the norm. In fact, they're now as essential to business as having a product, website or social media presence.

Why should your business launch a card program?

Launching a card program isn't just about joining the cool kids' club – it's about creating real business value and heightened exposure. Here's what you can achieve:

Keep your customers coming back

Remember those loyalty cards from your favourite coffee shop? Card programs take that concept to the next level. When customers have your card in their wallet, they're more likely to choose your business over competitors. Plus, every time they pull out that card, they (and everyone else around) see your brand.

Show me the money!

Card programs open up exciting new revenue streams. You can earn from:

• Interest charges (if applicable)
• Transaction fees from merchants
• Annual membership fees
• Premium features and services
• Insights and information on spending habits

Know your customers better

Want to know what your customers really want? Their spending patterns tell the story. Card programs give you valuable insights into customer behaviour, helping you make smarter business decisions.

Understanding the card program ecosystem

Let's break down the key players in this game:

The dream team

Picture a football team where everyone has a crucial role:

• Card networks (like Visa and Mastercard) are the referees, setting the rules
• Card issuers (like Tap) are the coaches, making sure everything runs smoothly
• Processors (overseen by Tap) are the players, handling all the transactions on the field

Open vs. closed loop: what's the difference?

Open-loop and closed-loop cards differ in where they can be used and who processes the transactions. Let’s break this down:

Open-loop cards:

These cards are branded with major payment networks like Visa, Mastercard, or American Express, and are accepted almost anywhere the network is supported, both domestically and internationally.

Examples: Traditional debit or credit cards, prepaid cards branded by major networks.

Pros: Wide acceptance and flexibility.

Cons: May come with fees for international use or transactions.

Closed-loop cards:

Cards issued by a specific retailer or service provider for exclusive use within their ecosystem. These cards are limited to the issuing brand or select partners.

Examples: Store gift cards (like Starbucks or Amazon), fuel cards for specific gas stations.

Pros: Often come with brand-specific rewards or discounts.

Cons: Limited to specific merchants; less flexibility.

Challenges that may arise

Let's be honest – launching a card program isn't all smooth sailing. Here are the hurdles you'll need to jump:

The regulatory maze

Remember trying to read those terms and conditions? Well, card program regulations are even more complex. You'll need to navigate through compliance requirements that would make your head spin.

Security

Fraud is like that uninvited guest at a party – it shows up when you least expect it. You'll need robust security measures to protect your program and your customers.

We’ve designed our card program to handle these niggles, so that you can bypass the challenges and reap the rewards. With a carefully curated experience, we take care of the setup, programming and hardware so that you can focus on the benefits and users.

Closing thoughts

Launching a card program is like building a house – it takes careful planning, the right tools, and expert help. But when done right, it can become a powerful engine for business growth. 

Contact us to get started on building a card program tailored to your company. After all, the future of payments is digital, and there's never been a better time to get started.

‍

Καθώς τα κρυπτονομίσματα γίνονται όλο και πιο δημοφιλή και υιοθετούνται σε παγκόσμια κλίμακα, μετατρέπονται από μια καινοτομία σε μια καθημερινή πραγματικότητα. Το 2021 σηματοδότησε μια σημαντική χρονιά για τον κλάδο των digital assets, με την παγκόσμια κεφαλαιοποίηση να ξεπερνά τα 3 τρισεκατομμύρια δολάρια και τη θεσμική επένδυση να βρίσκεται στα υψηλότερα επίπεδα της. Παράλληλα, χώρες όπως το Ελ Σαλβαδόρ ανακήρυξαν το Bitcoin ως νόμιμο μέσο πληρωμής.

Πλέον, όλο και περισσότερα χρηματοπιστωτικά ιδρύματα ενσωματώνουν τα ψηφιακά assets στους ισολογισμούς τους ή εξετάζουν την υιοθέτηση ψηφιακών νομισμάτων κεντρικής τράπεζας (CBDCs). Καθώς η τεχνολογία blockchain γίνεται μέρος της καθημερινότητας, έφτασε η στιγμή να αξιοποιήσουμε αυτή τη νέα τάση.

Τι είναι το Crypto as a Service;

Το Crypto as a Service (CaaS) είναι μια white-label λύση για επιχειρήσεις και χρηματοπιστωτικά ιδρύματα που θέλουν να προσφέρουν στους πελάτες τους υπηρεσίες σχετικές με κρυπτονομίσματα. Με απλά λόγια, είναι το “banking as a service”, αλλά για τα ψηφιακά assets.

Η λύση αυτή επιτρέπει σε οποιαδήποτε επιχείρηση – από fintechs και τράπεζες μέχρι e-shops και εφαρμογές πληρωμών – να ενσωματώσει υπηρεσίες όπως:

• Αγορά και πώληση κρυπτονομισμάτων
• Πληρωμές σε crypto μέσω digital wallets
• Ασφαλής φύλαξη ψηφιακών assets

Το CaaS προσφέρει στις επιχειρήσεις πρόσβαση σε ασφαλή συστήματα διαχείρισης συναλλαγών και κινδύνων, πάντα σε πλήρη συμμόρφωση με τους ισχύοντες κανονισμούς κάθε αγοράς. Η ίδια η επιχείρηση ελέγχει το interface του πελάτη, κρατώντας το brand experience ενιαίο και απρόσκοπτο.

Ποιος μπορεί να χρησιμοποιήσει CaaS;

Το Crypto as a Service δίνει τη δυνατότητα σε τράπεζες, fintech εταιρείες, διαχειριστές κεφαλαίων, επιχειρήσεις λιανικής, remittance εταιρείες και άλλες επιχειρήσεις να προσφέρουν υπηρεσίες crypto στους πελάτες τους, δημιουργώντας νέες ροές εσόδων.

Αναλυτικότερα, μέσω του CaaS:

• Τα remittance γραφεία μειώνουν το κόστος διασυνοριακών πληρωμών.
• Οι διαχειριστές κεφαλαίων επεκτείνουν την προσφορά τους σε crypto assets.
• Οι εταιρείες e-commerce δέχονται πληρωμές σε crypto.
• Οι πελάτες χρησιμοποιούν crypto wallets για καθημερινές αγορές.

Το CaaS απευθύνεται σε κάθε επιχείρηση που θέλει να εκσυγχρονίσει το σύστημα πληρωμών της και να εισέλθει στην αγορά των ψηφιακών assets.

Η λύση Crypto as a Service της Tap

Η Tap προσφέρει στις επιχειρήσεις μια έτοιμη, αξιόπιστη λύση Crypto as a Service που ενσωματώνεται εύκολα στο υπάρχον σύστημα της εταιρείας. Το CaaS της Tap δίνει τη δυνατότητα:

• Εύκολης ενσωμάτωσης crypto υπηρεσιών μέσω API
• Αγοράς, πώλησης και αποθήκευσης κρυπτονομισμάτων
• Χρήσης crypto wallets με δυνατότητες απόδοσης (crypto savings)
• Υψηλής ασφάλειας και πλήρους κανονιστικής συμμόρφωσης

Ενώ η δημιουργία ενός crypto exchange μπορεί να απαιτεί χρόνια ανάπτυξης, η λύση CaaS της Tap μπορεί να εφαρμοστεί σε λίγες εβδομάδες.

Επίλογος

Το μεγαλύτερο εμπόδιο για τη μαζική υιοθέτηση των κρυπτονομισμάτων είναι η πεποίθηση ότι είναι περίπλοκα ή ασταθή. Ωστόσο, με την ανάπτυξη σαφών ρυθμιστικών πλαισίων και την εισαγωγή ασφαλών, φιλικών προς τον χρήστη λύσεων όπως το CaaS, η πρόσβαση στα ψηφιακά assets γίνεται πιο εύκολη από ποτέ.

Το Crypto as a Service βοηθά τις επιχειρήσεις να αξιοποιήσουν την τεχνολογία blockchain και να προσφέρουν στους πελάτες τους μια σύγχρονη εμπειρία πληρωμών. Αν θέλετε να κάνετε το επόμενο βήμα, η ομάδα της Tap είναι έτοιμη να σας υποστηρίξει.