South African fintech company Peach Payments has announced a new partnership with local crypto payment provider MoneyBadger, marking a significant step in the integration of cryptocurrency into mainstream commerce. Through this collaboration, Peach Payments merchants can now accept Bitcoin and a variety of other digital assets as payment, giving consumers more flexible checkout options. This development signals a broader trend towards the normalization of cryptocurrency in everyday transactions across the region.
A Strategic First Move into Crypto
Peach Payments’ head of partnerships, Anine de Kock, emphasized that the choice of MoneyBadger was strategic, citing the company’s established local presence and compatibility with a wide range of crypto wallets. She noted that MoneyBadger’s flexibility enables more choice for consumers and a smooth user experience across both online and in-store purchases. The initial transactions made using the new integration—a garden spade and light fittings—highlight the practical, everyday uses of Bitcoin, showing how far digital currencies have come from niche investment tools.
South Africa’s Growing Crypto Adoption
South Africa boasts one of the highest Bitcoin adoption rates in the world, with 68% of citizens having owned or transacted in the digital currency. MoneyBadger previously made headlines in 2023 when it enabled Pick n Pay to accept Bitcoin payments, making it the first major African retailer to do so. This new collaboration with Peach Payments extends crypto accessibility even further, opening the door for more South African consumers to use Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies for everyday purchases.
TicketPro Sets a National Precedent
Online ticketing platform TicketPro has become the first merchant in its sector to integrate MoneyBadger via Peach Payments. CEO Brandon Duffield pointed out the increasing relevance of cryptocurrencies in the local market, stating that offering Bitcoin as a payment option enhances customer convenience without complicating business operations. Customers can now buy event tickets using Bitcoin, while TicketPro still receives settlements in South African Rand, a setup that provides the benefits of innovation with the stability of traditional currency.
Crypto for Daily Transactions
According to MoneyBadger co-founder and CEO Carel van Wyk, the use of Bitcoin in South Africa is shifting from speculative investment to everyday utility. He believes Peach Payments is a natural partner due to its technological sophistication and wide merchant network. In the first half of 2025 alone, MoneyBadger processed 19,536 transactions totaling $434,400 compared to $318,200 over the same period in 2024, indicating strong year-on-year growth.
User-Friendly Payments, Merchant Benefits
Making a crypto payment through Peach Payments is designed to be seamless for the user. Shoppers can either scan a QR code or tap a button on their mobile device, which auto-fills payment information into their crypto wallet. Transactions are confirmed within seconds, while merchants receive their payouts in South African Rand by the following business day, maintaining operational simplicity and compliance.
A Gateway for Young and International Consumers
Offering cryptocurrency payments is particularly attractive for merchants targeting younger consumers between the ages of 18 and 34—a demographic with growing financial clout and a preference for digital tools. The option is also ideal for international tourists and expatriates, who often lack access to local banking infrastructure but are equipped with crypto wallets. This opens new revenue channels for South African businesses looking to reach non-traditional customers.
Expanding the Vision Across Africa
Peach Payments’ De Kock confirmed that the Bitcoin payment feature will be rolled out to additional territories where the company operates. The goal is to provide a unified and inclusive payment infrastructure that supports various currencies and technologies across the African continent. As crypto payments become more accepted and expected, this partnership marks a critical step in evolving the digital commerce landscape in South Africa and beyond.
The collaboration between Peach Payments and MoneyBadger represents a landmark moment in the adoption of cryptocurrency in Africa. By facilitating Bitcoin payments for everyday goods and services, the two companies are redefining how South Africans interact with money. As digital currencies continue to gain traction, this partnership is poised to influence the future of commerce across the region.