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Changes in the gaming industry’s view of money through the implementation of blockchain technology are starting to revolutionise the way payment processes are carried out within the gaming industry. Kate Lifshits, CEO at NOWPayments, stated that the use of cryptocurrency provides a global component for performing transactions and removes high transaction costs as well as the time-consuming process of completing payments through bank wire transfers. With cryptocurrency, payments bypass intermediaries, creating what Lifshits calls “programmable trust” and ensuring that operators and players alike experience faster, more reliable transactions.
Zero-fee mass payouts for affiliates
Operators have historically faced challenges when it comes to affiliate payouts. NOWPayments has developed a mass payout feature that charges no fees and allows affiliates to receive precisely what they earned immediately. “If an affiliate earns $100, they should receive $100 immediately,” said Lifshits. By integrating NOWPayments’ API into their own operations, online casinos can send out mass payouts in one click; any funds sent through this system will arrive in less than one minute! This ability to make quick payments is already changing the way the iGaming industry operates by increasing operational efficiency and improving partnerships.
Custodial and non-custodial flexibility
The flexibility of different payment models is essential to operators. NOWPayments provides a choice of custodial or non-custodial options, allowing for the management of money by businesses in whichever manner they prefer. The custodial model offers automation of payout, conversion, and transfer functions while offering multiple levels of security. Non-custodial wallets give operators direct control over their funds, though they require more manual management. Lifshits emphasised that the custodial model is where “the magic of automation happens,” enabling instant payouts and zero-fee transactions without operational friction.
Regulatory compliance made simple
Navigating regulations is a significant concern for global operators. According to Lifshits, NOWPayments has dedicated legal and compliance teams that work to ensure adherence to the regulatory frameworks of each jurisdiction. Crypto payments allow operators to expand across borders with minimal friction, providing nearly instantaneous transfers at very low fees while remaining compliant. This combination of technology and regulatory understanding enables iGaming operators to scale safely and efficiently.
Fiat on and off ramps
A key barrier to adoption is the gap between traditional fiat payments and cryptocurrency. NOWPayments solves this with seamless on and off ramps. Players unfamiliar with crypto can pay in fiat, and the system automatically converts funds for the casino. Likewise, casinos can convert crypto back to fiat if they prefer not to hold digital assets. Lifshits describes this as enabling “financial inclusion,” ensuring both traditional and crypto-native players can participate without friction.
Future opportunities in iGaming
Looking ahead, Lifshits sees the most significant opportunity for crypto in iGaming as automation. While the technology exists, adoption is still scaling beyond niche markets. Integrating the benefits of Web3 with the proven strengths of traditional finance can resolve longstanding issues while delivering new advantages, from instant transactions to broader financial accessibility.
NOWPayments continues to innovate in this space, offering practical solutions for operators seeking speed, security, and efficiency in payments.
For more information on crypto payment solutions in iGaming, check out SiGMA‘s global events calendar for 2026 to connect with industry leaders such as NOWPayments.
