Crypto Payments Poised to Reshape U.S. Online Sports Betting
Event summary
- 83% of U.S. bettors want to use crypto for online sports betting when permitted, per Paysafe research.
- 64% of active U.S. bettors own cryptocurrency, with demand highest in New York (92%) and Illinois (88%).
- 71% of players say crypto payments would improve their betting experience.
- 71% would abandon a sportsbook for poor crypto transactional experience.
- Research based on a March 2026 survey of 2,550 bettors across nine U.S. states.
The big picture
Paysafe's research highlights a growing demand for crypto payments in U.S. online sports betting, positioning digital assets as a potential top-3 payment method. This shift aligns with broader trends in fintech and digital transformation, where cryptocurrency is increasingly seen as a key component of modern payment ecosystems. The strategic implications are significant, as operators that fail to adapt may risk losing market share to more agile competitors.
What we're watching
- Regulatory Evolution
- The pace at which U.S. states will permit crypto payments for sports betting.
- Competitive Dynamics
- Whether sportsbooks supporting crypto will gain a lasting competitive edge in player acquisition.
- Execution Risk
- How sportsbooks manage crypto payment integration to avoid player churn.
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