Euro Area Merchants Shun Cryptocurrency Payments

The European Central Bank (ECB) has released a report showing that only 0.2% of companies in the euro area accept cryptocurrency payments, even as other forms of digital payments are gaining ground.

The survey, which covered 8,205 businesses across 21 countries, found that cash remains the most widely accepted payment method, with 92% of companies accepting it. Mobile payments, on the other hand, have seen significant growth, with acceptance jumping to 68% in 2026 from 36% in 2024.

The ECB's findings come as the institution advances work on a digital euro, a central bank digital currency designed to complement cash and preserve the euro's role. However, the report notes that merchants are more concerned with consumer preference, security, and ease of handling when choosing which payment methods to accept.