Fold has joined forces with Stripe and Visa to launch a Bitcoin rewards credit card that gives users up to 3.5% back in Bitcoin on everyday spending. Announced Tuesday, the card will run on Visa’s global payment network and use Stripe Issuing to power its card infrastructure.
How the Bitcoin Rewards Card Works
At launch, cardholders earn 2% back in Bitcoin on every purchase with no categories, staking, or exchange accounts required. Those who pay off their balances through a Fold Checking Account with qualifying activity can unlock an extra 1.5%, pushing total rewards to 3.5%. Rewards are deposited instantly in Bitcoin at the time of purchase, unlike traditional cashback programs that often delay payouts.
Fold’s partnership with Stripe brings one of the biggest financial infrastructure providers into the fold. Stripe Issuing will manage card creation and services, while Visa ensures global acceptance across millions of merchants. Although Fold’s Nasdaq-listed stock (FLD) slipped nearly 10% to $3.49 after the announcement, analysts point to broader market volatility rather than skepticism about the card’s potential.
Market Impact and Industry Outlook
Fold has already gained recognition as a Bitcoin-first fintech, previously operating a debit-based rewards program that distributed millions in Bitcoin. The new credit card expands its reach as banks and fintechs cautiously test crypto adoption. Unlike other crypto cards tied to stablecoins or exchange tokens, Fold’s product focuses entirely on Bitcoin, making it attractive to both long-term holders and everyday consumers.
Industry watchers see the collaboration as a sign that mainstream payment giants are warming up to Bitcoin-based rewards. Regulators remain cautious about crypto-linked financial products, but Fold’s simple model—instant Bitcoin payouts without complicated conditions—may help ease adoption. If successful, this card could pave the way for broader crypto reward options across the credit market.
