Watch: Bitpace's CRO on reshaping gaming payments with Crypto

March 6, 2025

Watch: Bitpace's CRO on reshaping gaming payments with Crypto

The financial landscape for high-risk industries has long been defined by barriers, restrictions, and limitations, particularly in emerging markets. In an exclusive interview with SiGMA Group, Meryem Habibi, Chief Revenue Officer at Bitpace, dissects the complexities of banking restrictions in the gaming sector, highlighting how crypto payments provide a scalable, cost-effective solution for companies navigating the ever-tightening constraints of traditional finance.

From Africa and Asia to Latin America, many businesses struggle with securing banking services, as financial institutions continue to classify these industries as high risk. This restricts access to essential payment solutions, making global expansion increasingly difficult. However, crypto transactions offer a viable alternative, allowing companies to accept funds, convert them to fiat, and move capital efficiently; without relying on conventional banking rails.

Banking restrictions in emerging markets

For many businesses operating in high-growth but financially restrictive regions, banking challenges have become a major obstacle to expansion. Traditional financial institutions remain hesitant to provide services to companies within gaming, fintech, and digital commerce, leading to delayed transactions, high fees, and limited access to global markets.

“Banks still perceive the gaming industry as high risk, making it difficult for companies to open accounts and process transactions,” explains Habibi. “This challenge is even greater in emerging markets, where access to reliable financial services is already limited.”

In regions such as Africa, Asia, and Latin America, additional currency volatility and regulatory complexities further complicate the movement of funds. “Even when businesses manage to secure local banking solutions, getting their money out of these markets remains a significant challenge,” she adds.

How crypto provides a scalable solution

As financial institutions tighten restrictions, businesses are increasingly turning to crypto payments as a streamlined alternative. With crypto, companies can accept transactions without relying on banks, convert digital assets into fiat currencies, and ensure efficient global cash flow management.

“Crypto payments allow companies to overcome restrictions, process transactions seamlessly, and manage their funds without the delays and obstacles imposed by traditional banking,” notes Habibi.

Beyond solving payment challenges, crypto also enhances scalability. Expanding into new markets requires reliable payment infrastructures, and businesses using crypto transactions gain an advantage by removing geographical and regulatory barriers.

“When companies enter new regions, they need local licenses and banking partners. Crypto removes those hurdles, enabling faster growth and operational flexibility,” Habibi explains.

What’s next?

With businesses continuing to explore more efficient financial models, crypto payments are becoming a mainstay in global commerce. As adoption rates increase, the industry is moving towards a more decentralised, borderless financial ecosystem, allowing businesses to operate without the friction of outdated financial systems.

The discussion around banking restrictions, payments, and crypto’s role in enabling expansion is just beginning. Join industry leaders at BiS SiGMA Americas in São Paulo from April 7–10 to explore the latest developments in digital finance. Stay ahead by following SiGMA’s global summits for key market insights and business opportunities.