Paysafe Data Points to Crypto Shift in US Betting

Interest in using cryptocurrency for online sports betting is becoming a defining factor in how many US players approach sportsbook platforms, according to new research from payments company Paysafe. The study suggests digital assets could reshape how bettors fund accounts, withdraw winnings and choose operators.

The findings are based on Paysafe’s “All the Ways Players Pay: Crypto Edition” report, which surveyed 2,550 active bettors and individuals planning to bet within the next year. Overall, 83% of respondents said they were interested in using crypto to fund wagers where permitted.

The research also shows that crypto ownership is already widespread among bettors, with 64% of active US players holding digital assets. Paysafe argues this existing ownership base creates a foundation for broader adoption if regulatory conditions allow sportsbooks to support crypto transactions more widely.

Strong Variation Across US States

The study highlights differences across jurisdictions. In Colorado and Wyoming, where crypto betting is allowed, 59% and 45% of bettors respectively have already used digital assets for wagering.

In states where it is not yet permitted, demand remains high. New York recorded 92% interest, while Illinois and Florida each reached 88%. Respondents from several additional states, including New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Virginia, were also included.

Crypto Rising Among Preferred Payment Methods

When asked about preferred funding methods, respondents placed crypto among the top three options for sportsbook deposits. Digital wallets led at 55%, followed by debit cards at 50%, while crypto accounted for 45% of preference.

In some markets, crypto ranked even higher. In New York, it was second only to digital wallets, with 54% favoring wallets compared with 59% for crypto interest. A similar pattern appeared in Illinois, where 52% selected crypto as a preferred method against 58% for wallets.

Despite the growth of digital assets, traditional payment channels remain relevant. Credit cards and bank transfers were each chosen by 37% of respondents, while 23% still preferred peer-to-peer or local payment apps. A further 14% selected eCash solutions such as PaysafeCash.

Withdrawals and Betting Platform Choice

Interest in crypto withdrawals is strong, with 85% of respondents expressing a preference for cashing out winnings in digital assets, despite no US state currently allowing it.

Payment methods also influence sportsbook selection. While brand trust leads at 36%, payment factors remain important: 29% prioritize seamless crypto withdrawals, 28% flexible payment options, and 26% crypto deposits.

Impact on Retention and Industry Risk

Crypto is also linked to retention. Around 71% of bettors say digital asset payments would improve their experience, while a similar share indicate they would leave a sportsbook if payment performance is poor.

The same proportion—71%—said they would switch operators after a negative crypto payment experience. This rises to 80% in New York and 75% in Florida and Illinois.

Paysafe executive Zak Cutler said demand suggests crypto could become a more central part of sportsbook payments as regulation evolves.

Source:

“Paysafe Research: Crypto Payments to Transform US Online Sports-Betting”, businesswire.com, Jun 1, 2026