Integrate digital payments and cryptocurrencies into your e-commerce

Online shoppers seek flexibility, security and speed, prompting more and more e-commerce operators to adopt innovative solutions such as digital payments and cryptocurrencies.

If you are looking to stand out from the competition, attract a diverse customer base or simply optimise transaction costs, integrating digital payments and cryptocurrencies into your e-commerce business is a fundamental step. With Cuborio, the most versatile Italian platform for online shops, marketplaces and mCommerce, integration is easier than you think.

Why you should integrate digital payments and cryptocurrencies into your online shop

Digital wallets (such as PayPal, Apple Pay and Google Pay) have revolutionised checkout, reducing friction and increasing conversions. According to a report by Statista, in 2024 over 50% of online transactions will be made using methods other than credit cards.

The reasons are clear:

• Faster checkout: fewer fields to fill in, fewer abandoned carts.
• Advanced security: tokenisation and biometric authentication reduce fraud.
• Consumer confidence: services such as Klarna or Scalapay (Buy Now, Pay Later) increase the propensity to purchase.

Even today, many people associate Bitcoin and Ethereum with financial speculation, but their use in e-commerce is growing steadily. CoinGate reported that by 2023, over 15,000 online stores were accepting cryptocurrencies, a 300% increase compared to 2020.

Here's why it's worth considering them:

• Lower fees: crypto transactions cost less than credit cards (average cost: 1-2% vs. 2-3% + fixed fees).
• Global payments: no geographical restrictions or currency exchange.
• New customer segments: from crypto investors to users in countries with fragile banking infrastructures.

Ready to innovate your e-commerce? Set up online payments and digital wallets in just a few clicks with Cuborio.

How to integrate digital payments into your eCommerce

If you want to integrate methods such as Apple Pay or Google Pay, Cuborio supports native plugins and API solutions. For example, Stripe and Adyen offer unified gateways that enable these payments with just a few lines of code.
BNPL (Buy Now, Pay Later) services such as Klarna and Scalapay are also increasingly in demand, especially among young people. According to McKinsey, 40% of under-35s prefer to defer payments.

The same applies if you decide to use cryptocurrency payments in e-commerce, because using a specialised payment gateway such as BitPay or Coinbase Commerce allows you to accept Bitcoin, Ethereum and Stablecoin without having to manage the blockchain directly.

If, on the other hand, you prefer a simpler solution, plugins such as Crypto.com Pay or CoinPayments can be integrated in a matter of minutes, while the custom solution with smart contracts for advanced merchants, thanks to smart contracts on Ethereum, allows you to automate payments and refunds.

Critical issues and how to address them

One of the most difficult things is managing the volatility of cryptocurrencies, which are known for their price fluctuations. To mitigate the risk, you can:

• Use stablecoins such as USDT or USDC, which are pegged to the dollar.
• Convert immediately to euros using services such as BitPay.

Tax compliance

In Italy, crypto transactions must be declared. The Ministry of Economy provides specific guidelines, but it is always advisable to consult an accountant or your trusted solicitor. Although blockchain is secure, it is essential to:

• Use wallets with multisignature.
• Implement 2FA for administrative access.

Success stories and emerging trends: how crypto and NFTs are reshaping e-commerce

When Overstock.com announced in 2014 that it had started accepting Bitcoin, many considered it a risky experiment. Today, almost a decade later, that decision has proven to be forward-thinking.

Why was Overstock successful?

• First Mover Advantage: being among the first major retailers to embrace cryptocurrencies attracted a loyal niche of tech-savvy users.
• Cost Reduction: Crypto transactions saved millions in bank fees, especially for international payments.
• Additional Revenue: Today, approximately 10% of Overstock's sales are in Bitcoin, Ethereum and other cryptocurrencies, generating additional cash flow in excess of £50 million per year (source: Overstock Annual Report 2023).

But it's not just about the numbers. Overstock has leveraged this choice to differentiate itself from the competition, positioning itself as an innovative and cutting-edge brand.

As cryptocurrencies become more mainstream, another revolution is underway: the integration of NFTs, digital payments and loyalty programmes.

The example of Gucci and Dolce & Gabbana

• Gucci has launched a collection of NFTs linked to physical handbags, where each token acts as a digital certificate of authenticity and gives access to exclusive events.
• Dolce & Gabbana sold a series of 'Genesi Collection' NFTs for £6 million, offering owners benefits such as private fashion shows and limited editions.

These brands are not just selling products, but exclusive experiences, creating a deeper connection with customers.

Why is it important to use alternative payment methods in e-commerce?

• Digital scarcity: NFTs create numbered editions, increasing the perception of value.
• Real Utility: They can unlock physical benefits (discounts, VIP access), going beyond simple speculation.
• New Business Models: Some brands use NFTs for automatic royalties on secondary resales.

Other Trends to Watch

1. Real Asset Tokenisation (RWA): Some e-commerce sites are experimenting with selling fractions of luxury products via blockchain (e.g., a £10,000 watch divided into 100 tokens).
2. Crypto Cashback: Platforms such as Lolli allow users to receive Bitcoin as a reward for purchases.
3. Social Commerce with Crypto: Platforms such as Stripe are testing USDC payments on TikTok and Instagram.

NFTs, crypto cashback, tokenisation: the future is already here. Don't get left behind! Discover Cuborio's online payment solutions for your e-commerce business

From digital wallets to cryptocurrencies

Cuborio is not just a platform for creating eCommerce, but a flexible ecosystem that supports:

• Native integrations with major gateways.
• Scalability for marketplaces and mCommerce.
• Dedicated technical support for advanced configurations.

From digital wallets to cryptocurrencies, the online payment landscape is constantly evolving. Integrating these technologies is no longer optional, but a competitive advantage.

With Cuborio, you can do so without complications, keeping the user experience and security at the centre. Are you ready to seize the opportunity?